With its stunning landscapes, diverse culinary influences, and turquoise waters, Reunion Island is sure to captivate you! Corsair provides affordable airfare to this unique destination.
A French department located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Reunion Island boasts extraordinary natural treasures. Its national park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, the island is famed for its two volcanoes: the renowned Piton de la Fournaise and the Piton des Neiges, along with its lush vegetation, breathtaking hiking trails, and beautiful beaches. Book your flight from Paris and explore a vibrant, multicultural island at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Before Your Paris to Reunion Island Flight
When to Book a Paris to Reunion Island Flight
The climate on Reunion Island varies significantly depending on whether you're at a high-altitude pass, on the coast, or inland. Keep this in mind when planning your itinerary. Also, as the island is in the southern hemisphere, its seasons are opposite to those in mainland France.
Dry Season and Wet Season
Dry Season: From May to November, temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F), with infrequent rainfall. Humidity is relatively low, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Wet Season: Marked by higher temperatures, hot and humid days, and more frequent, heavy rainfall. Cyclone risks are higher in January and February.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, particularly the metropolitan autumn months of September to November. This is the perfect period to enjoy the island's remarkable scenery and idyllic beaches.
When Is the Best Time to Buy Plane Tickets to Reunion Island?
The ideal time to purchase tickets for a Paris to Saint-Denis flight depends on several factors. Here are some tips to find the best fares:
- Book in Advance: Aim to book your round-trip tickets several months ahead. Reserving 3 to 6 months before your Paris to Saint-Denis flight can help you secure the best prices.
- Avoid Peak Travel Times: Ticket prices are higher during school holidays, year-end festivities, and summer vacation periods. Avoiding these peak times can help you save.
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Receive updates on promotions and special offers.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Traveling mid-week or avoiding weekends often leads to cheaper flights.
- Take Advantage of Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts and special deals to reduce the cost of your Paris to Saint-Denis flight.
How Long is a Flight from Paris to Reunion Island?
The duration of a flight from Paris to Reunion Island depends on the airline and possible stopovers. Typically, a direct flight takes approximately 11 hours. However, some flights may include one or more layovers, which can significantly extend the total travel time, sometimes up to 15 hours or even more than 24 hours.
Ideal Trip Duration for Visiting Reunion Island
Here are detailed recommendations based on different trip lengths:
One Week (7 Days)
Activities: In one week, you can visit the island’s main attractions. This includes excursions to Piton de la Fournaise, the active volcano, and Piton des Neiges, the island’s highest peak. Explore the stunning cirques of Mafate, Salazie, and Cilaos, known for their spectacular landscapes and unforgettable hikes. Don’t miss the beaches and coastal towns like Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, and Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Tips: Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time and avoid unnecessary long drives. Prioritize the sites that interest you the most and book activities in advance to ensure availability.
Two Weeks (14 Days)
Activities: A two-week trip allows for a deeper exploration of the island. Include less-frequented hikes, visits to traditional villages like Hell-Bourg or Entre-Deux, and cultural experiences such as maloya dance performances or browsing local markets. Savor the island’s rich gastronomy by dining at local restaurants and sampling traditional dishes. Tips: Use this time to experience the diverse aspects of the island, from its cuisine to its traditions. Take the opportunity to meet locals and immerse yourself in the unique culture of Reunion Island.
Three Weeks (21 Days)
Activities: With three weeks, you can truly take your time to explore every region of the island. This includes mountain excursions, visits to vanilla plantations, and relaxing days on the beaches. Participate in longer activities like multi-day hikes or 4x4 adventures. Tips: Take advantage of the extra days to immerse yourself in local culture and discover hidden gems. Use this time to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and enjoy authentic, less-touristic experiences.
What You Need to Know Before Your Flight from Paris to Reunion Island
Reunion Island is a French Department. Travelers coming from France only need a valid national ID card to enter the island. Like mainland France, the currency is the euro, which makes traveling much easier. With numerous ATMs available across the island, withdrawing cash is not an issue.
It’s advisable to carry some cash, as very few tourist establishments accept credit cards. Depending on your budget, you’ll find that eating local offers lower prices. This is easy to do, as Creole cuisine is both flavorful and delightful!
Reunion Island is not a dangerous destination. No vaccinations are required, and the island is free of malaria. However, it is recommended to pack a good mosquito repellent, as these insects are active at all hours, day and night. Be cautious about where you swim: some beaches are off-limits due to strong currents and the risk of sharks. That said, as long as you stay within designated areas supervised by the local authorities, you will be safe.
Reunion Island does not observe daylight saving time. Therefore, there is a time difference of 2 hours in summer and 3 hours in winter with mainland France.
Arriving at Reunion Island Roland-Garros Airport
Departing from Paris Orly, your long-haul flight will take you to Reunion Island's Roland-Garros Airport. Located in the north of the island, it is near the city of Saint-Denis. A shuttle service provides regular connections between the airport and Saint-Denis bus station, with a journey time of about 30 minutes. Public transportation on the island is also an option.
Additionally, several car rental agencies are available at the airport, along with a taxi station. If you plan to rent a car to explore the island freely, it’s best to book in advance. This will allow you to secure better rates than last-minute rentals, especially during peak season.