Visa
Réunion is a French overseas department and therefore part of the European Union. Entry rules follow French and EU norms. EU and Schengen citizens need only a valid national identity card. Citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check French visa requirements, as these apply to Réunion.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Currency
The currency is the euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in Saint-Denis and the main coastal towns. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. You will need cash for markets, smaller gîtes, and street food stalls.
Prices are broadly comparable to provincial France. Dining out is more expensive than in neighbouring Mauritius or Madagascar; a restaurant meal for two with wine will typically cost €40–70.
Health
Medical facilities are good by regional standards — Réunion has French-standard public hospitals in Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre. Tap water is safe to drink in most areas. There is no malaria. Dengue fever and chikungunya (both mosquito-borne) occur periodically, particularly during the wet season; use repellent. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Sharks
Shark attacks have occurred off Réunion's unprotected coastline, particularly on the west coast where surfers and swimmers have been targeted. Designated swimming areas with shark nets exist along the west coast lagoons — swim only in these areas. Surfing outside the reef is at your own risk and restrictions are frequently in place; check locally before entering the water.
Safety
Réunion is generally safe. Petty theft exists in cities and at beach car parks — don't leave valuables in your car near trailheads. Mountain weather can change rapidly; the cirques can go from sunny to heavily overcast in under an hour. Always carry rain gear and a warm layer above 1,500 metres.
Electricity
220–240V, 50Hz, French two-pin plugs (Type E). The same plugs used throughout continental France.
Language
French is the official language. Réunionese Creole (Kréol réyoné) is spoken everywhere in everyday life — a French-based creole with Malagasy, Tamil, and Comorian influences. Most people in tourism and business speak French fluently; English is less widely spoken than on Mauritius, though it is understood in hotels and by younger Réunionnais in tourist areas.
Time Zone
UTC+4 year-round (no daylight saving time). Same as Mauritius.
Phone and Internet
Dialling code: +262. French mobile operators (Orange, SFR, Free) operate on the island. 4G coverage is good on the coast and in major towns; less reliable in the cirques and mountains. Local SIM cards are available from phone shops in Saint-Denis. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and widely available in cafes.