Reunion Island is a beautiful French overseas territory located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius. It is famous for its volcanic landscapes, beaches, and unique blend of cultures. Many travelers from India visit Reunion Island for its natural beauty and adventure opportunities.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Reunion Island from India. You will learn about flight options, travel tips, and what to expect upon arrival to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from India to Reunion Island – Main Options

Flight

Flying is the only practical and popular way to reach Reunion Island from India. There are no direct flights, so you will need to connect via major hubs. Flights are the fastest and most comfortable option for this long-distance journey.

• The main airport in Reunion Island is Roland Garros Airport (RUN) near Saint-Denis, which handles international flights and is well connected to Indian Ocean hubs.

• From India, you can fly from major airports like Mumbai (BOM), Delhi (DEL), Bengaluru (BLR), or Chennai (MAA) to connecting hubs such as Mauritius (MRU), Nairobi (NBO), or Paris (CDG) before reaching Reunion.

• Typical total travel time ranges from 12 to 20 hours depending on layovers, with fares generally between INR 40,000 to INR 80,000 one-way, varying by season and airline.

• Popular airlines include Air Mauritius, Air France, Kenya Airways, and Emirates, offering reliable service with good baggage allowances and meal options.

• Flight frequency depends on the connecting city; Mauritius has daily flights to Reunion, while other hubs may have fewer weekly options, so plan bookings in advance.

• Be prepared for longer layovers at connecting airports; use airline lounges or airport facilities to rest, and check visa requirements for transit countries.

Train

There is no train option to reach Reunion Island from India as it is an island in the Indian Ocean. Train travel is only useful for reaching your departure airport within India.

• Use Indian Railways to reach major international airports such as Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru, depending on your starting city.

• Book tickets via IRCTC well in advance, especially during holiday seasons, to ensure timely arrival at the airport.

• Consider overnight trains for long distances to save daytime for airport check-in and rest.

• Plan local transport from your train station to the airport carefully, as some airports are located far from city centers.

Bus

Bus travel is not applicable for reaching Reunion Island directly but can be useful for airport transfers within India. Long-distance buses can connect you to your departure airport if you are in smaller towns.

• State transport buses and private operators run frequent services to major airports like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru from nearby cities.

• Bus fares are economical, usually ranging from INR 100 to INR 1000 depending on distance and bus type.

• Expect variable comfort levels; opt for Volvo or deluxe buses for longer journeys to ensure comfort before your flight.

• Check bus schedules ahead, as night buses may be less frequent, and factor in traffic delays during peak hours.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to the airport is a convenient option if you live near major cities. Self-drive or taxi services can help you reach the airport comfortably with your luggage.

• Use app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru for reliable airport transfers with upfront fare estimates.

• Allow extra travel time during peak traffic hours, especially in metro cities, to avoid missing flights.

• Parking facilities are available at major airports, but pre-booking is recommended for longer trips to Reunion Island.

• Driving your own car is possible but consider tolls on highways and airport parking costs; plan routes using GPS apps for smooth navigation.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from India to Reunion Island to make the journey simple and stress-free.

• Book your international flight tickets early through trusted portals or airline websites to get the best fares and seat options.

• Check visa requirements for Reunion Island, which is part of France; Indian travelers usually need a Schengen visa or a French overseas territory visa.

• Arrange airport transfers in India in advance using app-based cabs or pre-paid taxis to ensure timely arrival for your flight.

• Pack according to Reunion’s tropical climate and airline baggage rules; carry essential documents and a printed itinerary.

• At connecting airports, confirm your next flight gate and boarding time; use airport lounges or rest areas during layovers.

• Upon arrival at Roland Garros Airport, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs to reach your accommodation safely and conveniently.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your travel documents, passport, and visa in a secure but accessible place during transit to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Drink bottled water and eat at reputable airport or airline food counters to avoid stomach issues common in long international travel.

• Book flights at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during holiday seasons like Diwali or Christmas, to avoid high prices and sold-out seats.

• Use local SIM cards or international roaming plans to stay connected and book cabs or accommodations easily upon arrival.

• Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a basic first-aid kit suitable for tropical climates.

• Be aware of monsoon season in Reunion (November to April) which can cause flight delays; plan flexible itineraries during this period.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Reunion Island is during the dry season from May to November when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are comfortable. Avoid the cyclone-prone monsoon months for safer travel.

Flight availability and prices can vary with seasons and festivals, so plan accordingly to enjoy a smooth journey.

• Avoid peak Indian holiday seasons like summer vacations and major festivals to reduce crowding and higher airfare.

• Monsoon months (November to April) bring heavy rains and possible flight delays or cancellations; check weather updates before booking.

• Early morning or late evening flights often have less air traffic and smoother boarding experiences at Indian airports.

• Plan your arrival in Reunion during daylight hours to navigate local transport and accommodations more easily.

Arrival at Reunion Island & What to Expect

When you arrive at Roland Garros Airport, you will find a modern facility with basic amenities and clear signage. The airport is about 7 km from Saint-Denis, the capital city.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis, car rentals, and app-based cabs like Uber, though availability may be limited compared to India. Many travelers stay in Saint-Denis or nearby coastal towns, which offer a range of hotels and guesthouses.

Conclusion

Flying via connecting hubs like Mauritius or Paris is the most efficient way to reach Reunion Island from India. Booking flights early and preparing for layovers will make your journey smoother and more comfortable.

By following this guide’s practical tips and step-by-step plan, you can confidently organize your trip to Reunion Island. With good planning, you will enjoy the island’s stunning landscapes and unique culture without travel stress.