Everything you might want to know before reaching out.
US, UK, Canadian, Australian and EU passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport. One thing to know: Réunion isn't part of the Schengen Area, so if you're also visiting mainland France or Europe on the same trip, a standard Schengen visa won't automatically cover Réunion, it needs to say "Valid for Réunion" specifically. Worth double-checking with the French consulate for your nationality before booking flights.
French is the everyday language here, with Réunion Creole spoken just about everywhere too. English isn't widely spoken outside hotels and tourist areas, which is exactly why I'm here, I'm fluent in English, so you're never stuck trying to explain what you need.
Yes, very safe on land, and the water is beautiful too, just something to be smart about. There are a handful of beaches, mostly on the west coast, where swimming isn't allowed because of sharks, and it's clearly marked wherever that's the case. A simple rule of thumb: if the panel says "forbidden" or shows a shark, don't go in. If it's a known surf spot and there are no surfers out, don't go in either. And generally, if you don't see any locals swimming somewhere, that's your answer. Outside of those spots, Réunion has some genuinely stunning places to swim, the lagoon around Saint-Gilles and L'Ermitage in particular is calm, protected and completely safe, and honestly one of the best parts of the island. I'll always point you toward the right beaches for the day.
Réunion is warm year round, but the dry season (May to October) is the easiest window: clearer skies, cooler highland air, and calmer hiking conditions. If you're set on other dates, that's fine too, I'll just plan around the season you're coming in.
Cyclone season runs December through February, sometimes into March. It doesn't mean your trip is off, most storms pass without a direct hit, but I keep an eye on the forecast throughout your stay and shift plans if anything's brewing. Send me your dates and I'll flag it early if you're travelling in that window.
Most visitors rent a car since the island's best spots are spread out and public transport is limited outside the towns. If you're working with me for transfers or touring, you don't need to worry about the mountain roads yourself, I'll drive.
Yes, tap water is treated and safe island-wide. Bottled water is everywhere if you prefer it out of habit, but you won't get sick from the tap.
Réunion uses the Euro. Cards work almost everywhere in towns, but I'd carry some cash for markets, roadside food stalls, and smaller villages where card machines aren't always reliable.
No mandatory vaccinations are required. Standard travel precautions apply, always worth a quick check with your doctor, especially if we're doing serious altitude hikes.
Pack for more than one climate in the same suitcase. The coast is warm and beachy, but the highlands and volcano can be genuinely cold, especially early morning. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and real hiking shoes if we're doing any trails, even if it looks sunny at sea level.
Every planned trip starts with a full itinerary built around your dates and interests. Depending on what you book, it can include private guiding, transport in my own vehicle, activity bookings, and WhatsApp support throughout your stay. Flights and accommodation are usually arranged separately unless we've agreed otherwise, I'll always be upfront about what's covered before we start.
English, French and Reunionese Creole.
Ideally as soon as you've booked your flights. If not, a few weeks ahead gives the most flexibility, especially in peak season, but I take last-minute requests whenever I can fit them in, reach out even if your dates are close.
Message me directly and I'll walk you through cancellation and rescheduling terms for your specific booking.
Payment details are confirmed once your itinerary is set, we'll go through your options together on WhatsApp.
My focus is English-speaking travellers. Réunion is a French island, so French and Creole are what's spoken day to day, and English speakers are the ones who struggle most to get around and get real information here. That's who I built this for. That said, I'm happy to help French speakers too if you reach out.
Absolutely, some of my favourite itineraries are the tight ones. Even two or three days is enough for a route that hits the highlights without feeling rushed. Just send me your dates.