Start your journey by exploring Saint-Denis, the largest city on Réunion Island. Visit the Le Barachois, a seawall that features a series of gardens, cannons and a lighthouse. Take a stroll in the colorful La Petite Marché that sells a variety of local handicrafts and fresh produce. You can also take a visit to the La Roche Écrite, a popular mountain peak for hiking.
Wake up early to visit the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes worldwide. This mountain is a highlight of Réunion Island, and the scenic route leading to the park offers stunning views of the eastern coast. The trail is well marked and requires approximately six hours of walking.
Make a stop at the charming village of Cilaos, located in the center of the island. Here you can learn about the local production of wine and explore the typical Creole-style houses. For lunch, go to the Le Papangue, a traditional restaurant serving local specialties.
Travel to the south and visit the lively town of Saint-Pierre, a great place to explore the local market, bars, and boutiques. For beach lovers, a must-visit spot is the Saint-Pierre Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches on the island with its turquoise sea and pristine white sand.
Head to the Maïdo, the most famous viewpoint in Réunion, and witness the stunning panoramas of the west coast, including the Cirque of Mafate, the Piton des Neiges and the Indian Ocean. For coffee enthusiasts, visit La Plantation Saint-Aubin, a vast farm producing a unique variety of coffee in Bourbon Pointu.
Take a day off to enjoy the unique beauty of the Lagoon of Saint-Gilles Les Bains. With its calm turquoise waters and crystal-clear lagoons, it offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. For a luxurious stay, choose one of the premium hotels along the beach, such as Le Nautile Beachfront.
Spend your final day driving to the nearby island of Mauritius and visit the Colored Earth of Chamarel. This geological formation has vibrant colors of red, yellow, and purple that create stunning stripes across the hilly terrain. Don't forget to visit A Casela Nature and Leisure Park to experience the African safari and outdoor activities.
Most visitors rent a car to explore the island, and a valid international driving license is necessary. It is recommended a 4x4 vehicle as roads along the eastern coast might be challenging. Additionally, there are frequent buses that connect cities with relatively reasonable rates, and taxis are widely available with metered fares.
For travelers with more time, visit Palmistes Forest, known for its lush vegetation and waterfalls. For those on a budget, consider staying in Saint-Paul, a laid-back town compared to the more touristy and expensive Saint-Gilles Les Bains. If you have less time, consider removing the trip to Mauritius, as it's quite far.
The only one airport in Réunion Island is the Roland Garros Airport (RUN) in Sainte-Marie that's 11 miles (20 minutes) from the capital, Saint-Denis. It's possible to reach various places on the island by bus or taxi, and there're many car rental offices at the airport for tourists who prefer driving.