Geography and Environment

Geography and Environment of Reunion

Terrain, climate, natural resources, hazards, and environmental conditions of Reunion.

Terrain: mostly rugged and mountainous; fertile lowlands along coast
Climate: tropical, but temperature moderates with elevation; cool and dry from May to November, hot and rainy from November to April
Highest Point: 3069 — Piton des Neiges 3,069 m
Lowest Point: Indian Ocean 0 m

Natural Resources: Fish, arable land, and hydropower remain the primary natural resources of Réunion. The island's surrounding waters support both artisanal and commercial fishing, though the marine resource base faces pressure from overfishing and climate-related changes to ocean ecosystems. Arable land is limited given Réunion's rugged, volcanic terrain, but fertile soils in lower-elevation areas support sugarcane cultivation, which dominates agricultural land use, alongside smaller-scale production of vanilla, geranium, and tropical fruits. Hydropower is a meaningful contributor to the island's energy mix, with several rivers and streams harnessed for electricity generation as part of broader efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and transition toward greater energy self-sufficiency.
Natural Hazards: periodic, devastating cyclones (December to April); Piton de la Fournaise on the southeastern coast is an active volcano

Detailed geography