Are you dreaming of an unforgettable family vacation? Reunion Island, with its varied landscapes and tropical climate, is the ideal destination to get away from it all. Between white sand beaches, green mountains and an active volcano, the intense island offers a multitude of activities to satisfy young and old. This complete guide will give you all the keys to organize a successful vacation in Reunion Island, suitable for all ages.
Why choose Reunion Island for your next school holidays? Because it is a destination that combines relaxation, discovery and adventure. You can swim in the turquoise lagoons, hike in the cirques, observe whales, or discover the Creole culture.
This guide will help you:
- Choose the best time to make the most of your stay.
- Find the perfect accommodation for your family, whether it’s a hotel, a B&B or a vacation rental.
- Select the activities that best suit your desires and your budget.
- Organize your budget and book your trip with complete peace of mind.
Ready for an unforgettable experience in Reunion Island? Read on to discover all our tips and tricks.
Going to Reunion for the school holidays
Choosing the right time to go to Reunion Island is essential to fully enjoy your school holidays . The island enjoys a tropical climate, but the seasons influence the possible activities and the comfort of your stay.
Table: The seasons in Reunion
Season | Climate | Benefits | Disadvantages |
April to November | Dry season : blue skies, pleasant temperatures | Ideal for water activities (snorkeling, diving), hiking and cultural visits. | More crowded, slightly higher prices. |
December to March | Cyclone season : frequent rains, high temperatures | Less crowded, more attractive prices. Possibility of observing whales . | Some activities may be limited in case of bad weather. |
Some tips for choosing the best time:
- April to June and September to November: These periods are ideal for enjoying mild, sunny weather, while avoiding the crowds.
- July and August: Metropolitan school holidays attract many tourists. Book your accommodation in advance.
- December to March: If you are looking for cheaper rates and fewer crowds, these months can be good, but be prepared for some showers.
In summary, the best time to go to Reunion depends on your priorities: if you prefer sun and water activities, the dry season is ideal. If you are looking for lower prices and a quieter atmosphere, the cyclone season can be a good option.
Where to stay in Reunion during school holidays?
Where to put down your suitcases in Reunion? The intense island offers a diversity of landscapes that is reflected in its accommodation.
The regions of Reunion: each has its own charm
Region | Ambiance | Activities |
West | Dynamic, touristy | Beaches, water activities, nightlife |
South | Authentic, natural | Hiking, discovery of cirques, Creole villages |
East | Wild, preserved | Scuba diving, whale watching, rainforests |
North | Cultural, historical | Saint-Denis, museums, colonial heritage |
What type of accommodation to choose?
- Hotels: For optimal comfort and numerous services ( Exsel hotels in Reunion ).
- Gîtes: For immersion in local life and privileged contact with nature.
- Vacation rentals: For greater autonomy and a tailor-made stay.
Why choose an Exsel hotel? Our high-end establishments offer quality services for a successful family vacation: swimming pools, children’s clubs, restaurants, etc.
In summary, the choice of your accommodation will depend on your desires and your budget. Do not hesitate to compare the offers to find the ideal formula.
Must-do family activities
Reunion Island is a giant playground for young and old! Between volcanoes , black sand beaches , tropical forests and green cirques , the intense island offers a multitude of activities to satisfy all tastes.
Dive into the heart of nature
- Family hikes:
- Easy: Stroll through the botanical gardens of Saint-Denis or around the Grand Étang .
- Moderate: Explore the Plaine des Palmistes or the Cilaos cirque .
- Sporty: For the more adventurous, the Piton de la Fournaise is a must. Don’t forget to equip yourself with good hiking shoes and bring water!
- Swimming and water activities:
- The beaches: Étang-Salé , Boucan Canot , Saint-Gilles-les-Bains … The beaches of Reunion Island are numerous and varied.
- Activities: Snorkeling , scuba diving , kayaking , paddle boarding . You will be able to observe a rich and colorful marine fauna.
- Discovery of fauna and flora:
- La Réunion National Park: A true paradise for nature lovers. You can observe sea turtles , endemic lizards and lush vegetation.
- Primary forests: Soak up the unique atmosphere of the Bélouve or Mafate forests .
Cultural immersion
- Saint-Denis, the capital: Visit the barachois , the Saint-Denis market and the Léon Dierx museum .
- Museums: Discover the secrets of the volcano at the Volcano Museum or go and meet the sea turtles at Kélonia .
- Creole cuisine: Treat yourself to local flavors: curries , rougail sausages , stuffed bringelles .
Fun activities
- Amusement parks: Cilaos Aventures offers many outdoor activities: zip line, tree climbing, etc.
- Sea trips: Embark on a catamaran or a glass-bottom boat to admire the island’s coasts.
Summary table of family activities in Reunion
Activity | Age | Region | Interest |
Hiking in the Cilaos cirque | All ages | South | Nature, landscapes |
Snorkeling in Etang-Salé | From 8 years old | Southwest | Marine discovery |
Visit to the Reunion National Park | All ages | Centre | Nature, biodiversity |
Volcano Museum | All ages | South East | Vulcano, geology |
Cilaos Adventures | From 6 years old | South | Adventure, thrills |
Do not hesitate to ask your Exsel hotel for advice on organizing your activities and discovering the best spots on the island. We will be delighted to help you create unforgettable family memories.
Practical advice for a successful stay in Reunion
Prepare your trip with complete peace of mind!
Aspect | Practical advice |
Formalities | Remember to check the validity of your identity papers. For minors, an individual passport is often required. |
Health | Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations. Don’t forget your first aid kit. |
Luggage | Bring light, comfortable clothing for the day, and warm clothing for the evenings at altitude. Consider effective sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses). |
Budget | Reunion Island offers a wide variety of prices. You can find accommodation and activities for all budgets. Don’t hesitate to compare offers. |
Transport | Car rental is ideal for exploring the island at your own pace. The roads are generally well maintained. Consider booking your vehicle in advance, especially during holiday periods. |
Security | Reunion Island is a safe destination. Follow marked hiking trails, swim in supervised areas and adapt your activities to the weather conditions. |
Stay at an Exsel hotel for optimum comfort.
We do everything we can to ensure you have a pleasant stay. Take advantage of our services:
- Swimming pools to cool off after a day of hiking.
- Kids clubs to keep your little adventurers busy.
- Restaurants offering authentic Creole cuisine.
Discover the riches of the intense island!
Reunion Island has many surprises in store for you. Explore the cirques , volcanoes like the Piton de la Fournaise , black sand beaches and tropical forests .
Additional tips:
- Download a hiking app to discover new routes.
- Taste the local flavors : chili candies, sausage rougail, curry…
- Attend a sega show to immerse yourself in Creole culture.
Do not hesitate to consult the tourist offices for additional information on the events and activities offered in Reunion .
Ready to live an unforgettable family adventure?
Book your stay at an Exsel hotel now!
The best of Reunion Island, just a stone’s throw from your Exsel hotel
Reunion, an intense island to discover with your family! Between volcanoes , cirques , black sand beaches and tropical forests , the island offers you a diversity of breathtaking landscapes. Did you like hiking in the highlands ? Swimming in the lagoon ? Or discovering Creole culture ?
We have guided you through the must-do activities for an unforgettable vacation in Reunion Island. Don’t forget to taste the delicious Creole cuisine and immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of the island.
Discover the real Reunion Island life by staying in an Exsel hotel . Our establishments are ideally located to allow you to enjoy the most beautiful beaches, the most spectacular hikes and the most varied activities. And for a little hunger, our restaurants offer authentic Creole cuisine. Book your stay and live a unique experience in Reunion.
