Réunion in December

Christmas holidays; heat and the first cyclones; 20 December is Fèt Kaf.

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• MayGreatClear skies return; good hiking and fewer visitors.
• SeptemberGreatExcellent hiking; whales still passing.
• OctoberGreatAmong the best months: dry, warm, clear.
• NovemberGreatWarm; the Grand Raid ultra-trail is usually in October (check).

• West coast (leeward) · Saint-Gilles, L'Hermitage, Saint-Leu, Saint-Pierrehot

  The dry, sunny side; lagoon swimming all year, hot and humid in summer.

• East coast (windward) · Saint-Benoît, Sainte-Rose, Saint-Philipperainy

  Among the rainiest places on earth in cyclone season; green, waterfalls, lava flows.

• Cirques · Cilaos, Salazie, Mafaterainy

  Clear mornings, cloud by late morning; June–August nights near 5 °C (41 °F) in Cilaos.Clear mornings, cloud by late morning; June–August nights near 41 °F (5 °C) in Cilaos.

• High peaks and volcano · Piton des Neiges, Piton de la Fournaise, Plaine des Cafresfine

  Frost possible at the summits June–August; start before dawn for views.

• Saint-Gilles31 °C (88 °F) / 23 °C (73 °F), 6 rain days88 °F (31 °C) / 73 °F (23 °C), 6 rain days

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Fèt Kaf (abolition of slavery)

  20 Dec

  Public holiday with concerts and ceremonies; shops close.

• Christmas

  25 Dec

  Holiday peak.

Crowds · Réunion

High

Prices · Réunion

High

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in Réunion, side by side.

• Light, breathable clothes, a sun hat and sunscreen
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast

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