Nestled in the Indian Ocean about 585 miles (942 kilometers) east of Madagascar, this speck of land is noted for its striking natural beauty. Majestic hiking trails, stunning beaches, a cosmopolitan culture – this island brings you all this and more.
Reunion is an overseas department of France located almost 9,000 miles (almost 15,000 kilometers) away from Paris. Located between Madagascar and Mauritius, Reunion is a haven for ecotourism with its coral reefs, verdant forests, abundant flora and avian life, and waterfalls. Hikers also find much to do here and visit the island all year round. If you’re planning to visit the island, you’ll find plenty to see and do. But make sure to buy travel medical insurance or travel insurance before you go to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Reunion Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
You can’t foretell when mishaps or illnesses might occur. But when they do, they require medical care. And medical care can be expensive in a foreign country. To avoid such expenses, the best option is to opt for travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Reunion?
Having travel medical insurance is not a mandatory condition for international travelers to enter Reunion. But it is advisable to have this insurance, as it can protect your finances if you need medical treatment in Reunion.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Reunion?
With all the hiking, swimming, and other physical activities you’ll do in Reunion, there is a chance that you might get injured. You might also fall sick. Good-quality treatment facilities are available in Reunion, but they will cost you a lot of money. So, it’s better that you buy travel medical insurance before your Reunion trip.
Reunion Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Trip cancellation is something everyone dreads. But circumstances like a bereavement in the family, workplace necessities, or troubles at the destination might necessitate cancellation. And with cancellation, all the advance payments that you made are headed for a total loss.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Reunion?
In addition to the flight tickets, you might also have paid for your hotel or local sightseeing tours in advance. With the cancellation, you stand to lose all that money. But trip cancellation insurance can help guard you against this financial loss if you have to cancel for a reason covered under your policy. Be sure to check the plan’s certificate wording so you know what these covered reasons are.
What all is covered under travel insurance for Reunion?
Trip cancellation insurance covers the common reasons for cancellation. You should buy travel insurance to protect yourself from financial loss. But before you buy, do check for the terms and conditions regarding the coverage.
Things to do For Travelers in Reunion
Reunion Island has volcanic origins and enjoys a tropical climate and diverse sceneries—so much so that the island is comparable to an “open-air museum.” UNESCO has classified almost half of the island as a World Heritage Site. You would have a lot to do in the days that you spend on this beautiful island.
- Le Piton de La Fournaise: One of the most active volcanoes in the entire region, the 2,632-meter-high Le Piton de La Fournaise (more than 8,600 feet) remains one of the most visited places on the island. Hike up the volcano, or ride a horse to the top. You can also opt for a biking trip. Carry suitable warm clothing, as the temperature drops as you move up. From the top, you’ll enjoy a mind-blowing view of the entire island.
- Cilaos: For canyoning and rock-climbing enthusiasts, Cilaos is the chosen venue. With impressive waterfalls and canyons, Cilaos beckons the adventure-minded traveler. Trek up to the top of the caldera to get breathtaking views of the landscape all around. Explore hidden gorges, and savor some local food and beverages at the Cilaos village.
- Ermitage Beach: Besides mountains and waterfalls, Reunion Island boasts some wonderful beaches, as well. The Ermitage Beach, which measures about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers), is the longest among them. Relax on the pristine white beach by the azure sea or go for a swim. You might also take a walk among the casuarinas groves.
- Mafate: Located close to 2,000 meters (about 6,500 feet) above sea level, the Mafate village in the eponymous caldera is a secluded attraction for those who love peace and quiet amid natural surroundings. You would need to do some challenging trekking to reach this place, but the dazzling views would be worth it. Be at one with nature and spend a quiet day here.
- Le Maido: Le Maido lies toward northern Reunion Island. This is among the most scenic spots on the entire island. Hike up to the summit, where you will be rewarded with unbelievably stunning views of the entire island. Choose a clear day for this visit, and start early to avoid crowds.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Reunion
The beautiful Reunion Island attracts many visitors to its shores year-round. It is a fairly safe travel destination, though not totally devoid of risks. International travelers need to adopt certain safety measures while they are here.
- Reunion lies in the “shark corridor,” and shark attacks are possible if you aren't cautious. But all you need to stay safe is to not swim alone or on unsupervised beaches.
- Foggy weather in the mountainous areas might make you lose your way. Travel only on well-demarcated paths, preferably with a trained guide.
- Drink only bottled mineral water. Avoid drinking water from lakes and waterfalls.
- Take proper precaution against mosquito-borne diseases while in Reunion. Carry a repellant with you at all times, especially in the forested areas.
Before You Travel to Reunion – Do This
Don’t forget these three basic but important tips before you make the trip:
- Go through the Reunion travel advisories in full detail.
- Maintain several backup copies of your passport and visa.
- Be sure to buy travel medical insurance. Enter some basic personal information, browse a wide variety of plans, and pick the one that best fits your needs.