Réunion in January

Hot, humid, heavy rain in the east; cyclone alerts possible.

January 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 Cafresrainy

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

• Saint-Gilles31 °C (88 °F) / 24 °C (75 °F), 10 rain days88 °F (31 °C) / 75 °F (24 °C), 10 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.

• New Year

  1 Jan

  Public holiday.

• New Year's Day check

  1 January · Saint-Gilles

  Most shops closed; family day; hotels full over the holidays.

• Marche sur le feu (Tamil fire-walking) check

  Around December to January, dates vary · Saint-Gilles

  A religious ceremony: dress modestly, keep back and do not photograph without asking.

Crowds · Réunion

Medium

Prices · Réunion

Medium

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

Build the full packing list for your trip →