Essential Guide to Réunion - Private drivers and island tours:

Navigate Your Journey with Confidence and Style

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La Réunion is one of those places that surprises people. It’s a French island in the Indian Ocean, near Madagascar, but it feels like several worlds rolled into one: tropical beaches, jungle-covered mountains, deep volcanic valleys, and a live volcano — all on a relatively small island.

A bit of background

No one lived on La Réunion until the French claimed it in the 1600s. Over time, settlers, enslaved Africans, Malagasy people, and later Indian and Chinese workers arrived, creating today’s very mixed Creole culture. Slavery ended in 1848, and in 1946 the island officially became a department of France. That’s why you’ll find French roads, schools, and hospitals — but Creole food, music, and traditions everywhere.

Getting Around the Island (What It’s Really Like)

Although La Réunion looks small on a map, travel takes time. The island is extremely mountainous, and roads twist through cliffs, forests, and volcanic terrain. Distances are short, but journeys are scenic and slow.

Private Driver Services (A Popular Choice)

Many visitors choose a private driver instead of driving themselves — especially if they want to relax and enjoy the views.

Why use a private driver?

  • Local drivers know the mountain roads, weather changes, and best viewpoints

  • No stress with narrow roads, hairpin bends, or foggy passes

  • Ideal for day tours, airport transfers, or multi-day island exploration

  • Drivers often double as informal guides, sharing history and local tips

Private drivers are especially useful for:

  • Piton de la Fournaise (the active volcano)

  • Cirque de Cilaos, Salazie, and Mafate

  • Long scenic coastal drives

  • Travelers uncomfortable driving on steep or winding roads

You can book:

  • Full-day or half-day tours

  • Custom itineraries (volcano, waterfalls, villages, beaches)

  • Transfers between towns or hotels

It’s more expensive than public transport, but many travelers feel it’s worth it for comfort and local insight.

Renting a Car

Still very common, especially for confident drivers. Roads are well maintained, but mountain driving can be intense for first-timers.

Public Transport

Good along the coast, limited inland. Fine if you’re staying in one area, less ideal for exploring the island fully.

What You’ll See Along the Way

  • Saint-Denis: Lively capital, markets, colonial buildings

  • West Coast: Beaches, lagoons, sunsets (Saint-Gilles area)

  • The South: Lava fields, dramatic coastlines

  • Piton de la Fournaise: One of the world’s most active volcanoes

  • The Cirques: Massive mountain basins with villages, waterfalls, and hiking trails (UNESCO-listed)

Practical Notes (Quick and Easy)

  • Currency: Euro (€)

  • Language: French (Creole widely spoken)

  • Best time to visit: May to November (cooler, drier)

  • Weather: Changes fast — sunny coast, cool and misty mountains

In a nutshell

La Réunion combines French comfort with wild, dramatic nature. If you want to enjoy the landscapes without worrying about mountain roads, a private driver is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to see the island.

 

Popular Destinations, Tours and Shuttle Services - Réunion

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Top Visitor Attractions in La Réunion

La Réunion is a destination of exceptional natural diversity, offering volcanoes, dramatic mountain landscapes, tropical beaches, and vibrant Creole culture — all within a single island.

Piton de la Fournaise (Active Volcano)

One of the most active volcanoes in the world and a highlight of any visit. Easily accessible via a scenic mountain road, with walking trails leading to viewpoints and crater areas. The surrounding lunar-like landscapes are unique and unforgettable.

The Cirques (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

La Réunion’s three vast volcanic amphitheaters are among its most spectacular sights:

  • Cirque de Cilaos – Known for mountain villages, hiking, thermal baths, and wine production

  • Cirque de Salazie – Lush, green, and home to waterfalls including Voile de la Mariée

  • Cirque de Mafate – Remote and road-free, accessible only on foot or by helicopter

Saint-Denis

The island’s capital blends colonial architecture with modern life. Visitors can explore museums, markets, historic streets, and the seafront promenade.

West Coast Beaches and Lagoons

The west coast offers the island’s best swimming areas, protected by coral reefs. Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is the main resort area, popular for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sunsets.

Lava Fields and the Wild South

The south of the island showcases dramatic lava flows from past eruptions, rugged coastlines, and powerful ocean views. A drive through this region reveals a stark contrast to the green interior.

Hiking and Nature Trails

With hundreds of kilometers of marked trails, La Réunion is a world-class hiking destination. Routes range from gentle coastal walks to multi-day mountain treks through rainforest and volcanic terrain.

Travel and Transport Tips

Getting to La Réunion

  • Main airport: Roland Garros Airport (Saint-Denis)

  • Direct flights from mainland France, with regional connections from the Indian Ocean area.

Getting Around the Island

Private Driver Services

Private drivers are a popular and convenient way to explore La Réunion, particularly for first-time visitors.

  • Ideal for volcano tours, cirques, and scenic routes

  • No need to navigate steep, winding mountain roads

  • Local drivers offer valuable insights and flexible itineraries

  • Available for airport transfers, day tours, and multi-day travel

This option is especially suitable for travelers seeking comfort, safety, and local knowledge.

Car Rental

Renting a car offers flexibility and independence. Roads are well maintained, but driving conditions can be challenging in the mountains due to sharp bends, steep gradients, and changing weather.

Public Transport

Public buses operate mainly along the coast and between major towns. Services to mountainous and remote areas are limited, making public transport less practical for sightseeing beyond urban areas.

Why Visit La Réunion?

La Réunion offers the comfort and infrastructure of France combined with dramatic landscapes found nowhere else. Whether exploring volcanoes, mountain cirques, or coastal lagoons, thoughtful transport planning — especially using private driver services — can greatly enhance the visitor experience.