Port Réunion, located in the commune of Le Port adjacent to La Possession, is the main cruise and cargo port for Reunion Island. Situated on the northwest coast of this French island in the Indian Ocean, it serves as the primary maritime gateway for all imports, exports, and tourism.
The port is a modern, deep-water harbor capable of accommodating large cruise vessels. Its strategic location provides cruisers with access to the island's incredibly diverse geography, from volcanic peaks and lush cirques to vibrant coastal towns. While the port itself is industrial, it is the starting point for excursions across this unique and dramatic landscape, often called the 'Hawaii of the Southern Hemisphere'.
One of the island's premier attractions is the Piton de la Fournaise, an active shield volcano. Reaching the viewpoint over the crater requires a long shore excursion, as it's about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive each way from the port, but the lunar-like landscapes are unforgettable.
The Cirque de Salazie offers a completely different, yet equally stunning, landscape. This lush, green volcanic caldera is famous for its numerous waterfalls, including the impressive Voile de la Mariée. The village of Hell-Bourg within the cirque is known for its authentic Creole character and is about a 1.5-hour drive from La Possession.
The highest point on the island, the dormant volcano Piton des Neiges, dominates the island's center. While summiting is a multi-day trek, day trips into the surrounding cirques offer spectacular views of its slopes.
For a more relaxed day, a visit to the capital city's botanical garden, the Jardin de l'État in Saint-Denis, provides a peaceful escape with a collection of tropical plants and trees.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
Saint-Denis, the administrative capital of Reunion, is a popular nearby destination located about 20 km (12 miles) northeast of the port. The drive typically takes 25-30 minutes. The city features beautiful Creole architecture, the Jardin de l'État, museums, and vibrant shopping streets.
The coastal resort town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is situated approximately 15 km (9 miles) south of the port, a 20-25 minute drive away. It is famous for its white sand beaches, calm lagoon protected by a coral reef, and plentiful water sports activities.
Just south of the port is the historic town of Saint-Paul, reachable in about 15 minutes. It is particularly famous for its bustling and colorful open-air market held every Friday and Saturday, which is one of the most beautiful in the Indian Ocean.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
The cruise port serving La Possession is actually Port Réunion, an industrial and commercial port located in the adjacent municipality of Le Port. The environment immediately surrounding the dock is not pedestrian-friendly and lacks tourist amenities, shops, or restaurants.
Transportation is required to leave the port area and explore the island. Cruise ships typically dock at a concrete pier, so tendering is not necessary.
The town center of La Possession is a few kilometers away, but most attractions are further afield. Cruise lines often provide shuttle buses to nearby towns like Saint-Paul or the capital, Saint-Denis (about 20 km away), or passengers opt for pre-booked excursions or taxis to explore the island.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
The official currency used in La Possession and throughout Reunion Island is the Euro (EUR), as it is an overseas department of France.
US dollars are not accepted for transactions, so it is necessary to use Euros. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
ATMs, known locally as "distributeurs automatiques de billets," are readily available in towns and at the airport, providing the most convenient way to obtain cash. Currency exchange services are available at banks, but ATMs generally offer better exchange rates.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
Reunion Island is generally a very safe destination for tourists. The primary concerns are petty theft, such as pickpocketing, in crowded areas like markets or busy streets in Saint-Denis. It is wise to take standard precautions by keeping valuables secure and out of sight.
When exploring nature, the biggest safety factors are the changeable weather and rugged terrain. If hiking, especially in the mountains or near the volcano, stick to marked trails, inform someone of your plans, and be prepared for sudden drops in temperature and rain. Guided tours are highly recommended for strenuous hikes.
A significant safety warning pertains to swimming. Due to shark activity, you must only swim in designated and protected areas, such as the lagoons on the west coast, and always pay attention to local advisories and flags on the beaches.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
Reunion Island has a tropical climate that varies significantly with altitude. The coastal areas, like La Possession, are warm and humid year-round, while the mountainous interior is much cooler.
The primary cruise season often falls within the cooler, drier winter season from May to November. During this period, coastal temperatures typically range from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F), with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
The summer season, from December to April, is hotter, more humid, and rainier. This period also constitutes the cyclone season, which can bring heavy storms and potentially impact port calls. Passengers should pack light clothing, sun protection, and a rain jacket. If planning a trip to the highlands or volcano, warm layers are essential as temperatures can be chilly.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
Transportation is essential to explore Reunion Island from the port of La Possession, as the port area itself is industrial. Taxis are available at the port terminal, but they can be quite expensive; it is advisable to negotiate the fare for a tour or ensure the meter is running for a direct trip.
Renting a car is a highly recommended option for flexibility and is the best way to see the island's diverse landscapes. Many rental agencies are available, but booking in advance is wise.
The island's public bus network is called Car Jaune ("Yellow Bus"), which connects the main coastal towns. While economical, the bus system can be slow and may not reach all inland natural attractions conveniently. There are no ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt on the island.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
Shopping opportunities on Reunion Island are centered in the main towns rather than at the port itself. The capital, Saint-Denis, offers a mix of French brands and local boutiques along its main shopping street, Rue du Maréchal Leclerc. For a more authentic experience, the open-air market in Saint-Paul is a must-visit, offering a vast array of crafts, spices, and foods.
Key local souvenirs to look for include "rhum arrangé" (infused rum with fruits and spices), high-quality vanilla pods, local spices, and jams made from exotic fruits like lychee and guava. Handcrafted items from volcanic rock and vibrant Madras fabric are also popular purchases.
Prices in stores are fixed, but polite bargaining may be possible with vendors at the markets. As Reunion is part of the EU, there are no special duty-free allowances for visitors arriving from other EU countries.
Last updated on June 28, 2025
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Prices are about steady throughout the year. On average La Possession is rather affordable as a port of call. Look at the chart below for the average cost per day by month.
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