Réunion Island recorded a new tourism high with 272,284 visitors in the first half of the year, generating €229.1 million in receipts — up 3.5%. But with 82% of tourists from mainland France, the island is launching a commercial offensive to diversify towards Germany, Switzerland, the UK and Belgium.
A Record First Half
The first-half tourism review confirms Réunion's upward trajectory. With 272,284 tourists welcomed — up 3% on the same period — and receipts reaching €229.1 million (+3.5%), the "intense island" is establishing itself as a premium destination in full expansion within the Indian Ocean basin. These results are underpinned by a diversified offer — hiking, luxury tourism, diving, gastronomy — that attracts high-spending visitors.
The Challenge of Dependence on Mainland France
The visitor profile reveals a structural vulnerability: 82% of visitors — around 220,000 tourists over the half-year — come from mainland France. "Diversification of our markets is more necessary than ever," the island's tourism officials emphasised. Such heavy concentration on a single market is a risk factor in the event of an economic or social shock in metropolitan France.
A Push Towards European and International Markets
To rebalance this profile, Réunion is pursuing a strategic opening to new source markets. Air Austral is at the heart of the drive, with partnerships in development towards Germany, Switzerland, the UK and Belgium. On long-haul routes, agreements are also being developed to Johannesburg — to capture affluent Southern Africa travellers — and Bangkok, targeting South-East Asia.
Luxury Tourism as a Value Driver
The strong growth in the luxury segment, visible since early 2026, adds higher value than simple volume increases. Five-star hotels, luxury villas and a top-tier dining scene position Réunion in the high-end tier of Indian Ocean destinations, competing directly with Mauritius and the Seychelles.
Why It Matters
Tourism is a fundamental pillar of Réunion's economy. The ability to diversify source markets is key to the resilience of the whole sector. By opening to Germany, Switzerland and South-East Asia, Réunion is equipping itself to consolidate its attendance records, move upmarket and reduce dependence on a single market.
Sources: Outremers360, Lejournaldesarchipels.com, July 2026.