Réunion is a French overseas region and department in the Indian Ocean, 700 km east of Madagascar and 200 km south-west of Mauritius. This volcanic island of extraordinary drama packs an active volcano, three steep-walled cirques, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain core, dense rainforest, and a warm lagoon into 2,512 km². It is simultaneously French enough to accept euros and credit cards everywhere, and exotic enough to feel like another world entirely.
Réunion is one of the safest destinations in the Indian Ocean for tourists. As a French overseas department, it has French law enforcement, European-standard healthcare, and good infrastructure. The main hazards are natural: shark activity on unprotected coasts, volcanic eruptions and gas emissions, cyclones November–April, and flash floods in ravines. Petty crime exists in urban areas of Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre but is low by French standards.
Current safety advisory
Generally Safe — With Specific Natural Hazards
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Healthcare standard
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- EU-standard healthcare. CHU Félix Guyon in Saint-Denis is the main hospital (+262 262 90 50 50). EPSMR psychiatric facility also in Saint-Denis. Pharmacies (pharmacies) are widely available and marked with green cross; many open until 20:00.
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- Travel insurance
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- Strongly recommended. French state healthcare covers EU citizens with EHIC card. Non-EU nationals should carry comprehensive travel and medical insurance with helicopter rescue cover.
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- Vaccinations
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- No vaccinations required for entry. Hepatitis A and typhoid recommended. Dengue fever: Aedes mosquitoes present — use DEET repellent, especially May–October. Chikungunya: occasional outbreaks — check CIRE Océan Indien (cire-ocean-indien.fr).
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- Sun and heat
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- UV index is extreme (11+) year-round. SPF 50+ sunscreen essential. Dehydration risk on volcano and cirque hikes — carry 3 litres per person minimum.
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- Water
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- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Réunion. Mountain stream water should be filtered or boiled.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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