What are the best travel insurances for Réunion in 2025?

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A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 16, 2025
Table of Contents
  • The best travel insurance plans for Réunion
  • Is it currently safe to travel to Réunion?
  • Is travel insurance required by law to enter Réunion?
  • Why take out travel insurance for Réunion?
  • What should travel insurance for Réunion cover?
  • The cost of travel insurance for Réunion
  • How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Réunion
  • Does my current insurance cover me in Réunion?
  • FAQ
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Travel insurance for Réunion: key takeaways

1. Definition: Travel insurance for Réunion covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage during your stay.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for covering potential high medical or repatriation costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is high quality but expensive; a hospital night can cost over $1,000 for foreigners.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Réunion typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure sports like hiking or canyoning, which are popular on the island.

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Why trust HelloSafe?

HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Réunion.

The best travel insurance plans for Réunion

Contract we recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1.1MOur top recommendation for Réunion.
- very high medical ceiling
- repatriation included
- suitable for cyclone and epidemic risk areas
Cap Assistance 24/24$1.1MSuited for short visits with active support.
- 24/7 emergency helpline
- no deductible
- cancellation cover
Tourist Card$550kGood for general tourism in Réunion.
- solid core protection
- emergency assistance
- competitive cost
Travel Pass Monde$770kBalanced for those seeking comprehensive support.
- hospital costs
- covers repatriation and medical evacuations
Globe Partner$330kSimple, essential coverage for trips to Réunion.
- covers medical care
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller$550kAffordable option for short and lower-risk stays.
- basic emergency cover
- prompt claims process
- sensible limits
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Réunion.
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Our top recommendation for Réunion.
- very high medical ceiling
- repatriation included
- suitable for cyclone and epidemic risk areas
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.1M
Our view
Suited for short visits with active support.
- 24/7 emergency helpline
- no deductible
- cancellation cover
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$550k
Our view
Good for general tourism in Réunion.
- solid core protection
- emergency assistance
- competitive cost
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$770k
Our view
Balanced for those seeking comprehensive support.
- hospital costs
- covers repatriation and medical evacuations
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$330k
Our view
Simple, essential coverage for trips to Réunion.
- covers medical care
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$550k
Our view
Affordable option for short and lower-risk stays.
- basic emergency cover
- prompt claims process
- sensible limits
Comparison of recommended travel insurance contracts for Réunion.
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

Is it currently safe to travel to Réunion?

As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Réunion. The overall risk level is moderate, primarily due to weather events and occasional civil unrest as part of the broader France advisory.

  • Security risks: petty theft and occasional burglaries can occur, particularly in Saint-Denis and tourist areas like Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. Unrest or protests may arise during major political events.
  • Health risks: vector-borne diseases such as Zika and Chikungunya are present. The island has experienced periodic dengue outbreaks and travelers should follow precautions against mosquito bites.
  • Environmental hazards: cyclone season brings the risk of severe storms and flooding, especially between December and April. Hiking near active volcanic areas such as Piton de la Fournaise also carries inherent risks.
  • Legal requirements: proof of onward or return travel is required at the border, and routine vaccinations including MMR are strongly advised due to global outbreaks.

Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Réunion.

Is travel insurance required by law to enter Réunion?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens to enter Réunion.

However, it is strongly recommended by both US authorities and local officials due to the high cost of medical care, the risk of natural disasters like cyclones, and the possibility of requiring emergency evacuation to mainland France or another country. Travel insurance can offer coverage for these sudden and expensive situations.

According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Réunion. This is mainly due to the high potential cost of local and international healthcare in case of emergency.

Why take out travel insurance for Réunion?

It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Réunion.

In Réunion, medical costs can quickly become significant, especially for foreigners at private hospitals like Clinique Sainte-Clotilde in Saint-Denis. Access to high-quality care can be expensive, and in serious cases, medical evacuation to France may be needed, resulting in even higher bills.

Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation and repatriation fees to the United States in case of a serious incident.

Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Réunion.

Example of medical treatmentCost at Clinique Sainte-ClotildeCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection1,800 EUR (about 1,950 USD)up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)1,200 EUR (about 1,300 USD)up to 100%
I need to be repatriated15,000 EUR (about 16,300 USD)up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)4,000 EUR (about 4,350 USD)up to 100%
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Clinique Sainte-Clotilde
1,800 EUR (about 1,950 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Clinique Sainte-Clotilde
1,200 EUR (about 1,300 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Clinique Sainte-Clotilde
15,000 EUR (about 16,300 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Clinique Sainte-Clotilde
4,000 EUR (about 4,350 USD)
Covered by travel insurance
up to 100%

These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.

It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.

What should travel insurance for Réunion cover?

Main coveragesExplanations and recommendations
? Medical expensesCovers doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical treatment.
We recommend at least $100,000 in coverage due to high private healthcare costs and potential for evacuation.
? Medical evacuationPays for emergency transport to the United States or another country when local care is not sufficient.
Choose at least $250,000 in coverage, as evacuations from Réunion are costly.
✈️ Trip cancellationReimburses prepaid and non-refundable expenses in case you must cancel due to a covered reason.
A minimum of $5,000 is suggested for flight and accommodation costs.
? Baggage loss/delayCompensates you if your luggage is lost, stolen, or significantly delayed.
We recommend coverage of at least $2,000 for personal items and essentials.
? Prescription drugsCovers replacement of essential medications if needed while abroad.
A minimum of $750 is recommended for unexpected pharmacy needs.
?‍⚖️ Personal liabilityProvides protection if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
At least $100,000 in liability coverage is suggested for travel to Réunion.
? Travel delayPays for meals and accommodation if your travel is delayed for specified reasons.
Include coverage of at least $1,000 for unexpected delays.
? Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical treatment.
We recommend at least $100,000 in coverage due to high private healthcare costs and potential for evacuation.
? Medical evacuation
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for emergency transport to the United States or another country when local care is not sufficient.
Choose at least $250,000 in coverage, as evacuations from Réunion are costly.
✈️ Trip cancellation
Explanations and recommendations
Reimburses prepaid and non-refundable expenses in case you must cancel due to a covered reason.
A minimum of $5,000 is suggested for flight and accommodation costs.
? Baggage loss/delay
Explanations and recommendations
Compensates you if your luggage is lost, stolen, or significantly delayed.
We recommend coverage of at least $2,000 for personal items and essentials.
? Prescription drugs
Explanations and recommendations
Covers replacement of essential medications if needed while abroad.
A minimum of $750 is recommended for unexpected pharmacy needs.
?‍⚖️ Personal liability
Explanations and recommendations
Provides protection if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
At least $100,000 in liability coverage is suggested for travel to Réunion.
? Travel delay
Explanations and recommendations
Pays for meals and accommodation if your travel is delayed for specified reasons.
Include coverage of at least $1,000 for unexpected delays.

Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has low coverage limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a reputable insurer that offers comprehensive protection. Compare top plans on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.

The cost of travel insurance for Réunion

Trip durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$36 USD
2 weeks45 years old$54 USD
1 month35 years old$90 USD
1 month70 years old$148 USD
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$36 USD
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$54 USD
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$90 USD
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$148 USD

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

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Good to know

The price of travel insurance depends on several factors: your age, trip duration, destination, desired coverage limits, and optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these in mind is essential to choosing the right policy for your trip to Réunion, ensuring you get the coverage you need at a fair price.

? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.

? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Réunion

Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Réunion while keeping good coverage:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
? Trip durationPremiums are based on the number of days insured. Longer trips cost more even if risk stays the same each day.Select exact travel dates only so you do not pay extra for coverage you do not use.
✈️ Level of coverageHigher coverage increases cost. Good local healthcare and low personal risk can justify more modest coverage limits for Réunion.Choose moderate but sufficient limits that suit your needs rather than the maximum available.
? Number of travelersGroup or family plans are often cheaper per person than individual policies purchased separately.Ask for group rates if traveling as a family or with friends to reduce the average premium.
? DeductiblesChoosing a higher deductible means lower premiums, but you will pay more in the event of a claim.Consider a higher deductible if you can afford it to decrease your upfront policy costs.
?‍? Traveler’s agePremiums may rise with older age, especially over 60. Not all insurers treat age the same.Compare different insurers; Heymondo does not increase rates for people over 62.
?️ Local activitiesExtra coverage for sports or adventure activities can increase premiums and may not be necessary for all travelers to Réunion.Only add coverage for specific activities you actually plan to do, like hiking or diving.
? Destination regionSome policies cover multiple areas or countries, increasing cost. Réunion-only coverage is often cheaper if not visiting other places.Pick a France & Réunion-only plan if your trip does not include additional destinations.
? Trip duration
Why it matters
Premiums are based on the number of days insured. Longer trips cost more even if risk stays the same each day.
Expert tip
Select exact travel dates only so you do not pay extra for coverage you do not use.
✈️ Level of coverage
Why it matters
Higher coverage increases cost. Good local healthcare and low personal risk can justify more modest coverage limits for Réunion.
Expert tip
Choose moderate but sufficient limits that suit your needs rather than the maximum available.
? Number of travelers
Why it matters
Group or family plans are often cheaper per person than individual policies purchased separately.
Expert tip
Ask for group rates if traveling as a family or with friends to reduce the average premium.
? Deductibles
Why it matters
Choosing a higher deductible means lower premiums, but you will pay more in the event of a claim.
Expert tip
Consider a higher deductible if you can afford it to decrease your upfront policy costs.
?‍? Traveler’s age
Why it matters
Premiums may rise with older age, especially over 60. Not all insurers treat age the same.
Expert tip
Compare different insurers; Heymondo does not increase rates for people over 62.
?️ Local activities
Why it matters
Extra coverage for sports or adventure activities can increase premiums and may not be necessary for all travelers to Réunion.
Expert tip
Only add coverage for specific activities you actually plan to do, like hiking or diving.
? Destination region
Why it matters
Some policies cover multiple areas or countries, increasing cost. Réunion-only coverage is often cheaper if not visiting other places.
Expert tip
Pick a France & Réunion-only plan if your trip does not include additional destinations.

Does my current insurance cover me in Réunion?

It’s completely legitimate to wonder if your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public and private health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Réunion. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient.

Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.

Type of insuranceValid in Réunion?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insuranceNo, neverNo coverage for medical care or emergencies outside the United States.Travel insurance can cover $100,000+ for emergencies, repatriation, and hospitalization abroad.
Private health insuranceYes, partlyMay reimburse some medical care upon return, often excludes emergency evacuation and prepayment.Travel insurance covers up to $250,000+, pays hospitals directly, and includes evacuation cover.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard)Yes, partlyEmergency medical up to $2,500, limited lost baggage, trip cancellation rarely included.Travel insurance often covers $100,000+, plus lost baggage, delays, and all medical transport.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire, Amex Gold, Citi Premier)Yes, partlyMedical emergencies up to $50,000, some baggage/trip delay cover, evacuation not guaranteed.Travel insurance can provide $250,000+ health, trip cancellation, and 24/7 emergency assistance.
Insurance Comparison for Travel to Réunion
Public health insurance
Valid in Réunion?
No, never
What it covers
No coverage for medical care or emergencies outside the United States.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance can cover $100,000+ for emergencies, repatriation, and hospitalization abroad.
Private health insurance
Valid in Réunion?
Yes, partly
What it covers
May reimburse some medical care upon return, often excludes emergency evacuation and prepayment.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers up to $250,000+, pays hospitals directly, and includes evacuation cover.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard)
Valid in Réunion?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Emergency medical up to $2,500, limited lost baggage, trip cancellation rarely included.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance often covers $100,000+, plus lost baggage, delays, and all medical transport.
Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire, Amex Gold, Citi Premier)
Valid in Réunion?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical emergencies up to $50,000, some baggage/trip delay cover, evacuation not guaranteed.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance can provide $250,000+ health, trip cancellation, and 24/7 emergency assistance.
Insurance Comparison for Travel to Réunion
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Example

While canyoning in Réunion, Mark suffered a spinal injury. The helicopter evacuation and surgery cost $45,000. His Chase Sapphire card's travel insurance only paid $2,500, and his US health plan wouldn't cover the foreign evacuation. Without specific travel insurance, he faced a staggering $42,500 bill for his adventure.

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Expert advice

Always check your existing insurance's terms, exclusions, and limits. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to Réunion?

US citizens do not need a visa to visit Réunion for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your US passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned departure, and you may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel when you arrive.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Réunion?

To purchase travel insurance for Réunion, first compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review each plan's guarantees and exclusions relevant to Réunion, including coverage for natural disasters or health issues. Complete your purchase online, then receive your certificate by email for your records.

Are there specific health precautions travelers should consider for Réunion?

Standard vaccinations such as MMR, COVID-19, hepatitis A, and B are recommended, especially due to a global measles outbreak. Protect yourself from mosquito bites to reduce the risk of Zika and Chikungunya. Travelers should also follow food and water safety practices, especially in rural areas or when consuming street food.

Does travel insurance for Réunion cover natural disasters like cyclones?

Many travel insurance plans cover trip interruptions, delays, or cancellation due to severe weather events such as cyclones, especially during cyclone season. Check that your policy specifically lists these events under covered risks and provides for evacuation expenses if necessary. Coverage limits for these risks are often $500 to $2,000.

Where can I get help in an emergency while in Réunion?

In an emergency, US citizens in Réunion receive consular assistance from the US Embassy in Port Louis, Mauritius, reachable at +(230) 202-4400. During severe weather or public safety incidents, always follow instructions from local authorities. Registering with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows the embassy to contact you quickly if needed.

Do I need a visa to travel to Réunion?

US citizens do not need a visa to visit Réunion for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your US passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned departure, and you may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel when you arrive.

How do I purchase travel insurance for Réunion?

To purchase travel insurance for Réunion, first compare policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Review each plan's guarantees and exclusions relevant to Réunion, including coverage for natural disasters or health issues. Complete your purchase online, then receive your certificate by email for your records.

Are there specific health precautions travelers should consider for Réunion?

Standard vaccinations such as MMR, COVID-19, hepatitis A, and B are recommended, especially due to a global measles outbreak. Protect yourself from mosquito bites to reduce the risk of Zika and Chikungunya. Travelers should also follow food and water safety practices, especially in rural areas or when consuming street food.

Does travel insurance for Réunion cover natural disasters like cyclones?

Many travel insurance plans cover trip interruptions, delays, or cancellation due to severe weather events such as cyclones, especially during cyclone season. Check that your policy specifically lists these events under covered risks and provides for evacuation expenses if necessary. Coverage limits for these risks are often $500 to $2,000.

Where can I get help in an emergency while in Réunion?

In an emergency, US citizens in Réunion receive consular assistance from the US Embassy in Port Louis, Mauritius, reachable at +(230) 202-4400. During severe weather or public safety incidents, always follow instructions from local authorities. Registering with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows the embassy to contact you quickly if needed.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

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