Flights to Reunion

Reunion Island is emerging as a top-tier destination for those seeking a blend of high-octane adventure and serene tropical beauty. As a French overseas territory nestled in the Indian Ocean between Mauritius and Madagascar, it offers a unique “Europe-meets-the-Tropics” atmosphere.

Reunion is easily accessible from major cities across India. If you are booking flights to Reunion from India, travellers can get direct flights to the capital of Reunion, Saint-Denis, from Chennai. If you are a member of loyalty programs, you can often use benefits like lounge access or hotel vouchers when booking domestic or codeshare legs of your journey.

Reunion Island is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a landscape defined by dramatic volcanic activity. It is home to Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its “cirques”, massive natural amphitheatres formed by volcanic collapses, and its towering tropical forests and cascading waterfalls.

A seamless blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese heritages, the island offers a rich sensory experience. From the spicy aromas of its unique cuisine to the rhythmic sounds of Maloya music, a trip here is as much about cultural exploration as it is about trekking through volcanic peaks.

• Distance between India and Reunion: The aerial distance between India and Reunion is approximately 5,271 km.
• India to Reunion flights: International flights operate between Chennai, India and Saint-Denis, Reunion.
• India to Reunion flight timings: India to Reunion flights are available at regular intervals.
• India to Reunion flight ticket price: To secure the most competitive rates, it is recommended to book at least three to four months in advance, particularly if travelling during the peak southern summer season (October to March). The price varies depending on when you book your flight.
• Multiple flights to Reunion from India: Delhi to Reunion, Mumbai to Reunion, Chennai to Reunion, Bengaluru to Reunion, and others.

Reunion Island offers a sophisticated blend of adventure and cultural immersion, making it a compelling choice for the discerning international traveller. Reunion is a vibrant cultural crossroads. The island’s identity is reflected in its bustling local markets and high-end Creole gastronomy, which elegantly fuses French, Indian, African, and Chinese influences. Most international itineraries commence in the capital, Saint-Denis. As the island's administrative and historical hub, it offers an ideal introduction to the territory’s colonial architecture and botanical heritage before travellers venture to the luxury eco-lodges of the interior or the seaside retreats of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.

Reunion travel guide

• Piton de la Fournaise: As one of the world’s most active shield volcanoes, Piton de la Fournaise is the centrepiece of Reunion Island. Rising to 2,632 meters, it offers a stark, "lunar" landscape, most notably at the Plaine des Sables. Travellers can view the Dolomieu crater from the Pas de Bellecombe lookout or take a guided trek to the summit. For a comprehensive scientific perspective, the Cité du Volcan museum offers immersive 4D cinema experiences and educational exhibits suitable for families.
• Cirque de Mafate: A true sanctuary for hikers, the Cirque de Mafate is a remote volcanic caldera accessible exclusively by foot or helicopter. This preserved wilderness features steep “ramparts” and deep valleys interlaced with over 140 km of marked trails. The Le Maïdo viewpoint provides the most iconic panoramic vista of the cirque, offering a bird's-eye view of its isolated hamlets and rugged peaks.
• Cirque de Cilaos: Reached via the spectacular “Road of 400 Bends,” Cilaos is a mountain retreat nestled at the foot of Piton des Neiges. The village is celebrated for its thermal springs and its unique cultural heritage, including world-renowned lentils and delicate embroidery (the “Jours de Cilaos”). It serves as an ideal base for canyoning and high-altitude trekking.
• Cirque de Salazie and Hell-Bourg: Salazie is the island's most verdant cirque, characterised by its high rainfall and the cascading Cascade du Voile de la Mariée. At its heart lies Hell-Bourg, officially designated as one of France’s most beautiful villages. This hamlet is a living museum of colourful Creole architecture and provides access to the ancient Bélouve forest.
• Beaches and Coastal Areas: Reunion’s coastline offers diverse marine experiences, though safety protocols are paramount. Ermitage Beach is the island's primary swimming destination, where a natural coral reef forms a shallow, protected lagoon ideal for snorkelling. On the northwest coast, Boucan Canot offers golden sands and a trendy atmosphere; however, swimming here is restricted to shark-netted zones or the natural volcanic rock pools. Travellers are advised to always respect local flags and signage regarding sea conditions.

Located in Sainte-Marie (7 km east of Saint-Denis in the northern part of Reunion), Roland Garros Airport (RUN) is named in honour of the early pioneer of aeronautics, Roland Garros, who was born on Reunion. There are many ways to get to/from the airport. Public buses, specifically the Car Jaune and Citalis networks, run frequently from the airport to Saint-Denis, with connections to other locations on the island. There are also taxis available just outside the terminal that take approximately 10-15 minutes to reach Saint-Denis.

• Flight booking: It is advisable to make reservations to secure competitive rates, particularly during the peak southern summer season (October to March).
• Visas and immigration: Indian citizens may be eligible for a visa waiver for stays of up to 15 days, provided the trip is organised through an authorised travel agency. For stays exceeding 15 days, a specific visa must be obtained via the French embassy or consulate. Always carry a passport valid for at least six months and a printed copy of your return itinerary.
• Leave for the airport early: For international departures, passengers should arrive at least three hours before the scheduled departure time to allow sufficient time for security and immigration formalities.
• Baggage allowance: Review the specific baggage allowance policies of your selected carrier. Allowances for check-in and cabin luggage may vary significantly between domestic Indian legs and international segments.