Verified Facts
The internet in Reunion is well-developed, with good connectivity and a range of options for getting online, making it relatively easy for tourists and remote workers to stay connected during their stay.
Quick Facts
Internet Overview
The internet in Reunion is of good quality, with an average speed of 20 Mbps download, making it suitable for streaming, online gaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. However, there is a noticeable urban-rural divide, with faster speeds and more reliable connections available in urban areas such as Saint-Denis, while rural areas may experience slower speeds and more frequent outages. Despite this, the overall reliability of the internet in Reunion is good, with most users experiencing few issues with their connections.
The French telecommunications authority, ARCEP, regulates the internet market in Reunion, ensuring that users have access to a range of services and providers. This competition has driven innovation and improvement in the sector, with many providers offering high-speed fiber optic connections and 4G mobile networks. As a result, Reunion has one of the most developed internet infrastructures in the African region, making it an attractive destination for remote workers and digital nomads.
Getting a SIM Card
Getting a SIM card in Reunion is a straightforward process, with many providers offering tourist-friendly plans and prepaid SIM cards. The main carriers, Orange Reunion, SFR Reunion, and Free Mobile Reunion, all offer a range of plans, including data-only SIMs and bundles with voice and text minutes. To purchase a SIM card, you will need to provide a valid passport and proof of address, such as a hotel reservation or rental agreement. SIM cards can be purchased at carrier stores, supermarkets, and other retail outlets.
The cost of a SIM card varies depending on the provider and plan, but tourists can expect to pay around 10 USD for a basic SIM card with a small data allowance. Data plans are available from around 5 USD per month for a basic plan with 1GB of data, up to 20 USD per month for a plan with 10GB of data. It is recommended to purchase a SIM card from a carrier store, where staff can assist with activation and setup.
| Carrier | Tourist Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Reunion | Holiday Plan | 1GB | 5 | Includes 10 minutes of voice calls |
| SFR Reunion | Reunion Pass | 5GB | 15 | Includes 20 minutes of voice calls |
| Free Mobile Reunion | Free Tourist | 10GB | 20 | Includes unlimited voice calls |
| Zeop Reunion | Zeop Tourist | 2GB | 10 | Includes 5 minutes of voice calls |
WiFi Availability
- Hotel WiFi quality is generally good, with many hotels offering high-speed WiFi in rooms and public areas.
- Cafe WiFi culture is well-established, with many cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi to customers.
- Coworking spaces are available in major towns, offering high-speed internet and other amenities such as meeting rooms and printers.
- Public WiFi is available in many public areas, including parks and beaches, although the speed and reliability can vary.
- Many shopping malls and supermarkets also offer free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected while out and about.
For Remote Workers
- Coworking spaces such as Le Hub and Reunion Coworking offer a range of amenities and services, including high-speed internet and meeting rooms.
- Reliable cafe chains such as Cafe Paul and Le Pain Quotidien offer good WiFi and a comfortable working environment.
- Backup internet options such as mobile hotspots and portable WiFi routers are available for purchase or rental, providing a reliable connection in case of an outage.
- VPNs are not strictly necessary, but can be useful for accessing geo-restricted content or secure online services.
- Many libraries and community centers also offer free WiFi and other resources, making them a useful option for remote workers.
Tips & Warnings
- Internet censorship is not a significant issue in Reunion, but some sites may be blocked due to French regulations.
- Using a VPN can help to access geo-restricted content and secure online services.
- Roaming alternatives such as eSIMs and international SIM cards can be a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.
- Be aware of data limits and roaming charges when using a SIM card or mobile hotspot.
- Public WiFi networks can be vulnerable to hacking and other security threats, so it is recommended to use a VPN and keep software up to date.
- Be sure to check the terms and conditions of any SIM card or data plan before purchase, to ensure it meets your needs and budget.