Réunion, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, offers diverse landscapes from volcanic peaks like Piton de la Fournaise to lush cirques such as Cilaos and Salazie. The island is popular for hiking, beaches, and Creole culture. The official currency is the euro, and prices are generally comparable to mainland France—higher than in many neighboring countries. The climate is tropical, with a hot, rainy season from November to April and a cooler, drier season from May to October, making the latter ideal for travel.
Réunion’s transport infrastructure is fairly limited outside the main coastal areas. Within cities like Saint-Denis, local buses are available but can be infrequent and slow. Between towns, a network of regional buses (Car Jaune) connects major points, but schedules may not suit all travelers. There’s no train system, and many roads are narrow or winding, especially inland. Renting a car is often the most practical way to get around, particularly for exploring remote areas.
