Réunion in December
Not the best time
December brings holiday crowds and the return of serious tropical weather. It's still manageable for tourism but you can feel cyclone season approaching on the horizon.
Weather
Summer arrives with rising heat and humidity climbing toward 80%. Afternoon thunderstorms become common and more intense. The air gets that heavy, tropical feel that hints at the approaching cyclone season.
29°C high23°C low12 rain days
Crowds & Cost
high crowds
~$125/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations
- •New Year's Eve festivities
- •Summer holiday season begins
December Tips
- •Book accommodations early for Christmas and New Year's period
- •Plan indoor activities for rainy afternoons
- •Consider travel insurance that covers cyclone-related cancellations
All Months
Réunion's seasons flip the script. April through November brings the dry season – cooler temperatures, less humidity, and clearer skies for hiking. This is peak time for the high country, when trails stay passable and views stretch to the horizon.
December through March is cyclone season. The weather gets hot, humid, and unpredictable. But here's the thing – this is when the waterfalls rage and the vegetation explodes in green. If you can handle afternoon downpours and the occasional flight delay, you'll have the island mostly to yourself.
July and August see French families descend for school holidays. Book accommodations early and expect crowds at popular beaches. But the weather stays perfect – 25°C on the coast, 15°C in the mountains.
Shoulders seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the sweet spot. Good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. The ocean stays warm from summer, perfect for water activities.
Réunion Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
7/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
6/10
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