Réunion
East Africa · territory
Réunion is a territory in East Africa, home to 885,000 people, with an area of 2,511 km². Its capital is Saint-Denis.
- Capital
- Saint-Denis
- Population
- 885,000
- Area
- 2,511 km²
- Region
- East Africa
- Density
- 352 / km²
- Status
- Dependency or territory
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
What Réunion is known for
Réunion is best known for Piton de la Fournaise, Cirque de Mafate and Trou de Fer.
Réunion Island is a French overseas department and region located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, including volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush forests.
Réunion at a glance
- Language
- French is the official language, with Creole also widely spoken
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Religion
- Christianity is the predominant religion on the island, with significant minorities of Hinduism and Islam
- National dish
- Creole cuisine is popular on the island, with dishes such as rougail saucisse (sausage stew) and cari poulet (chicken curry) being local favorites
- Climate
- Réunion Island has a tropical climate, with high humidity and rainfall throughout the year
- Main industries
- Tourism, agriculture, and fishing
- GDP
- €20.3 billion (2019 estimate)
- Development
- Réunion Island is considered an overseas department of France, and as such is not classified separately in terms of human development
Things to do in Réunion
Some of the main tourist attractions on Réunion Island include:
- Piton de la Fournaise one of the world's most active volcanoes, located in Réunion National Park.
- Cirque de Mafate a natural amphitheater created by the collapse of a volcanic caldera, with hiking trails and traditional Creole villages.
- Trou de Fer a spectacular waterfall located in the heart of the island's lush forests.
- Grand Galet Falls a beautiful waterfall located in the south of the island, surrounded by stunning scenery.
- Saint Gilles-les-Bains: a popular beach town on the west coast of the island, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Saint Denis: the capital of Réunion Island, with a rich cultural heritage and historic architecture.
- La Plaine des Sables a unique lunar landscape located on the road to Piton de la Fournaise, with views of the volcano and surrounding forests.
- Cilaos a charming mountain village with a spa resort and hiking trails.
- Le Maido a viewpoint overlooking the Cirque de Mafate, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Cap Méchant a dramatic coastal cliff on the south-eastern tip of the island, with breathtaking views of the ocean and rugged coastline.
These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Réunion Island has to offer. The island is also known for its diverse cultural heritage, with influences from France, Africa, and Asia.
Réunion in pictures
Réunion on video
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Réunion compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of East Africa.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Mauritius | 1.3 million | 2,040 km² | Port Louis |
 Djibouti | 1.1 million | 23,200 km² | Djibouti City |
| Réunion | 885,000 | 2,511 km² | Saint-Denis |
 Comoros | 850,000 | 1,862 km² | Moroni |
Questions about Réunion
What is the capital of Réunion?
The capital of Réunion is Saint-Denis.
How many people live in Réunion?
About 885,000 people.
How big is Réunion?
Réunion covers 2,511 km², in East Africa.
What is Réunion known for?
Réunion is best known for Piton de la Fournaise, Cirque de Mafate and Trou de Fer.
What language is spoken in Réunion?
French is the official language, with Creole also widely spoken.
What currency is used in Réunion?
Euro (EUR).
Is Réunion a country?
Réunion is a dependency or overseas territory rather than a sovereign state, so it appears only when territories are switched on in the generator.