10 Best Things to Do in Réunion

Looking for what to do in Réunion? This French overseas department in the Indian Ocean is a true geological and cultural marvel, often described as a small continent condensed into a single island. It stands as one of the world’s most dramatic destinations, where the raw power of an active volcano, the sculpted majesty of three immense volcanic cirques, dense tropical forests, towering waterfalls, and turquoise lagoons converge. Beyond its staggering natural beauty, Réunion is a vibrant cultural mosaic, blending French, Creole, African, Malagasy, and Indian influences into a unique and welcoming society. This fusion of extreme landscapes and rich human heritage creates an adventure-lover’s paradise with a distinctly European flavor.

From trekking across otherworldly lava fields and deep into isolated mountain amphitheaters to relaxing on volcanic black-sand beaches, exploring lush botanical gardens, and savoring a vibrant Creole cuisine, Réunion offers an almost overwhelming array of experiences. To help you navigate this incredible island, here are the 10 best things to do in Réunion to help you plan the perfect trip.

1. Hike the Piton de la Fournaise volcano

The Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active and accessible volcanoes on Earth, a constantly evolving landscape that forms the fiery heart of Réunion. Hiking across its vast, mineral-colored plains—shades of ochre, rust, and stark black—feels like walking on another planet. The main access is via the dramatic Route du Volcan, a road that climbs through changing vegetation before opening onto the desolate Plaine des Sables, a prelude to the main event.

From the Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint, a classic hike descends into the Enclos Fouqué caldera towards the Formica Leo crater and the Dolomieu Crater, whose dimensions shift with each eruption. When the volcano is active (which is often), access may be restricted to certain areas, but the spectacle of seeing red lava flows at night is unforgettable. Even in a quiet phase, the scale, silence, and raw geological power of the site are awe-inspiring. This is not just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage to one of nature’s most dynamic masterpieces.

2. Explore the Cirque de Mafate

The Cirque de Mafate is a world apart. Carved by erosion and accessible only by foot or helicopter, this remote amphitheater is a sanctuary of untouched nature and a testament to resilient community spirit. Its steep, forested walls shelter a handful of small, rustic hamlets (îlets) where life moves to the rhythm of the mountains. Hiking is the only way to truly experience Mafate, with a network of trails connecting villages like La Nouvelle, Marla, and Roche Plate.

Treks can range from a challenging day hike descending from the Col du Taïbit from Cilaos to multi-day adventures staying in basic gîtes (mountain lodges). The rewards are immense: breathtaking panoramas from knife-edge ridges (aretes), encounters with endemic birds, and the profound tranquility of a place untouched by roads. Mafate offers a rare experience of true wilderness and cultural authenticity, making it the holy grail for serious hikers visiting Réunion.

3. Visit the Cirque de Salazie

The Cirque de Salazie is the wettest and most luxuriantly green of the three cirques, a hanging garden of waterfalls, mist-shrouded peaks, and deep valleys. It is also the most accessible by car via a winding road. The picturesque village of Hell-Bourg, classified as one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” is the main attraction, with its charming, pastel-colored Creole houses adorned with delicate lacework (lambrequins) and stunning backdrop of mountains.

From here, numerous trails lead to spectacular waterfalls, including the iconic Voile de la Mariée (Bridal Veil) and the powerful Cascade du Trou de Fer, best viewed from a breathtaking belvedere after a moderate hike. The area is also known for its natural thermal baths. Salazie embodies the lush, fertile, and romantic soul of the Réunionese highlands, offering easier access to the cirque experience with plenty of opportunities for gentle walks and cultural immersion.

4. Discover the Cirque de Cilaos

Nestled within a dramatic basin surrounded by jagged peaks like the Piton des Neiges and the formidable Grand Bénare, the Cirque de Cilaos is a land of extreme beauty and proud traditions. The winding, famously sinuous road up to the town of Cilaos is an adventure in itself. The town is known for three things: its therapeutic hot springs, its delicate Lentilles de Cilaos (green lentils), and its unique high-altitude vineyards producing a surprisingly good sweet wine.

Cilaos is a premier hiking hub, with trails ranging from the iconic and grueling ascent of the Piton des Neiges to the spectacular Sentier de la Chapelle leading to a rock chapel with dizzying views. The atmosphere here is one of alpine freshness combined with Creole warmth, making it a perfect base for exploring the island’s rugged interior and enjoying locally sourced, hearty mountain cuisine.

5. Explore the black-sand beaches of Saint-Pierre & Étang-Salé

Réunion’s volcanic origin is dramatically evident in its unique west coast beaches. The town of Saint-Pierre, the island’s vibrant southern capital, boasts a lively seaside promenade and a lagoon protected by a coral reef, making it safe for swimming and popular with families. Just north, the beach at Étang-Salé-les-Bains is one of the island’s most striking, with its long, sweeping arc of fine black sand set against a backdrop of a fragrant casuarina forest.

The contrast of the dark sand against the bright turquoise of the Indian Ocean is mesmerizing and provides a completely different beach experience. While the south and west coasts are generally calmer, it’s crucial to always heed safety flags and signs, as the island lacks protective reefs in many areas, and dangerous currents can be present. These beaches offer a perfect blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a taste of local coastal life.

6. Visit the Piton des Neiges summit area

As the highest peak in the Indian Ocean (3,071m), the extinct volcano Piton des Neiges is the towering father of the island. The pre-dawn summit climb is a rite of passage for avid hikers, offering a sunrise view that is nothing short of spiritual—watching the first light illuminate the three cirques and the distant outline of Piton de la Fournaise. The most common route starts from the Gîte de la Caverne Dufour, requiring a very early start and good physical condition.

For those not attempting the summit, the surrounding area offers some of Réunion’s most spectacular and accessible high-altitude hiking. The Cap Anglais trail or the route to the Pain de Sucre belvedere provide equally breathtaking panoramic views of the cirques without the extreme commitment. The alpine environment, with its endemic vegetation and crisp air, showcases yet another facet of the island’s incredible diversity.

7. Swim & snorkel in the lagoon of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains

For guaranteed safe swimming and excellent snorkeling, the lagoon of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains on the sheltered west coast is the top choice. Part of the larger Réserve Naturelle Marine de La Réunion, this protected area of calm, shallow turquoise water is teeming with marine life. Colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and sea turtles glide over coral gardens just meters from the shore.

The adjacent Plage des Roches Noires and the bustling Plage de Boucan Canot (with its white sand imported from Madagascar) offer a lively beach scene with restaurants, bars, and water sports rentals. The marina of Port de Plaisance is the departure point for dolphin- and whale-watching tours. Saint-Gilles provides the classic Indian Ocean resort experience, combining aquatic adventure with laid-back coastal leisure.

8. Visit the Niagara Waterfall (Ste-Suzanne)

Known locally as the Cascade Niagara (not to be confused with its North American namesake), this elegant waterfall near Sainte-Suzanne on the lush north coast is one of the island’s most picturesque and easily accessible cascades. The water tumbles 25 meters over a dark basalt cliff into a large, deep natural pool, surrounded by verdant tropical vegetation.

It is a popular spot for locals to cool off, especially on weekends, and is perfect for a refreshing swim. A short, easy walk from the car park leads to the base of the falls. Its setting, often with rainbows forming in the mist, makes it an ideal stop for a picnic or a peaceful break from driving, encapsulating the easy, natural beauty of Réunion’s coastal fringe.

9. Explore Saint-Denis & Creole heritage

As the prefecture and administrative capital, Saint-Denis offers a distinct urban cultural experience. Stroll down the elegant Rue de Paris to admire beautiful colonial-era Creole mansions like the Léopold Hubert de Villèle Museum and the Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle. The lively Grand Marché is a sensory explosion of spices, handicrafts, tropical fruits, and local textiles.

The seafront Barachois area, with its canon-adorned esplanade and views of the ocean, is perfect for an evening walk. Don’t miss the stunning Jardin de l’État, a magnificent botanical garden. While not a beach destination, Saint-Denis provides crucial insight into the island’s French administrative identity, its Creole architectural heritage, and its role as the cultural and economic crossroads of the Indian Ocean.

10. Enjoy Creole cuisine & rum tastings

Réunionese cuisine is a delicious reflection of its cultural melting pot. Meals are built around a cari or rougail—a fragrant, slow-cooked stew of meat, fish, or poultry served with rice, beans (grain), and a variety of spicy condiments like achards (pickled vegetables). Must-try dishes include rougail saucisse, cari poulet, and cabri massalé (curried goat).

Street food is exceptional, with bonbons piments (chili fritters) and samoussas available everywhere. To drink, the island produces excellent rhum arrangé—rum macerated with local fruits and spices—and pure agricole rum from distilleries like Savanna or Rivière du Mât. Dining in a local table d’hôte (guesthouse restaurant) or at a beachside snack is as much a cultural journey as a culinary one, rounding out the immersive Réunion experience.