Climate & Weather Guide in Reunion

Climate zones, seasonal temperatures, rainfall patterns, and best travel times

Réunion is a small volcanic island in the southwest Indian Ocean with strong climate contrasts created by elevation, exposure to trade winds, and the island’s rugged terrain. Sea-level areas are warm and humid year-round, while the highlands are much cooler and can feel almost temperate at times. The island’s climate is broadly tropical, with a wetter east and windward side and a somewhat drier west and leeward side. For residents and expats, this means most coastal areas are warm and livable without extreme temperature swings, but rainfall, cloud cover, and flood risk vary sharply by location and altitude.

Summer Average

26-31°C

Winter Average

18-24°C

Climate Types

Tropical monsoon and Tropical savanna and Subtropical highland

Annual Rainfall

750-3000 mm

Sunshine Hours

2,200-2,800 hrs/yr

Average Humidity

70-85%

Regional Climate Variations

Western Leeward Coast

The western coast is generally the warmest and sunniest part of Réunion, with less rainfall than the east and more stable conditions for everyday living. Coastal neighborhoods here are favored for beach access, tourism, and outdoor activities because cloud cover is often lighter and temperatures stay pleasantly warm through both seasons. Heat can feel stronger at lower elevations, but sea breezes usually soften it. This is the most comfortable area for expats who want a dry-to-moderate tropical climate with good year-round livability.

Summer:27-31°C

Winter:20-24°C

Low to moderate rainfall

Warm, sunny, and relatively dry for an Indian Ocean island; coastal life feels breezy and relaxed, with fewer rain interruptions than the windward side.

Eastern Windward Coast

The eastern side faces the trade winds and receives much heavier rainfall, especially during the wet season. This coast is lush, green, and more humid than the west, with frequent showers and a stronger tropical feel. Temperatures remain warm, but the air often feels heavier and cloudier. For residents, the east offers dramatic scenery, fertile landscapes, and cooler moments during rain, but it is less suitable for those seeking dry weather or consistent sunshine.

Summer:26-30°C

Winter:19-23°C

Very high rainfall

Humid, lush, and rain-fed; the climate is tropical and green, with frequent showers and a stronger sense of weather variability.

Central Highlands and Volcano Slopes

The central uplands and volcano slopes are noticeably cooler than the coast because temperature drops with altitude. These areas can feel refreshingly mild during the day and cool at night, especially in the winter months. Rainfall is often substantial, and weather can change quickly with elevation and slope orientation. This zone suits people who prefer a less humid, cooler environment, though it is less ideal for those who want constant warmth. It is one of the most distinctive living environments on the island.

Summer:20-26°C

Winter:12-18°C

High rainfall

Cooler, cloudier, and more variable than the coast; mornings can be crisp, and evenings may feel almost mountain-like by tropical standards.

Réunion offers a tropical island climate with major differences between the drier western coast, the wet eastern side, and the cooler highlands. For residents and expats, the island is attractive if you want warm weather year-round, but choosing the right area matters because rainfall, humidity, and temperature change sharply with elevation and exposure to trade winds.

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