
Cilaos Market
Discover Reunion Island's authentic flavors at Cilaos Market, featuring unique fruits, famous lentils, and artisanal 'rum arrangé'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively atmosphere

Cilaos Market
Best Time
Freshest produce and lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Reunion Island's authentic flavors at Cilaos Market, featuring unique fruits, famous lentils, and artisanal 'rum arrangé'.
"A wonderful experience in Cilaos; you won't regret it!"

🎯 Taste Before You Buy
Ask Brice at the back for exceptional wine tastings and rum samples! :wine_glass:
💰 Price Check
Lentils can be pricey (around €16-€25/kg), but authentic. :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cilaos Lentils
Taste the island's famous, slightly pricey but authentic Cilaos lentils.

Rum Arrangé
Sample artisanal rums infused with local fruits and flowers.

Exotic Fruits
Discover unique produce like pineapple Victoria, green mango, and peculiar tomatoes.

Cilaos Wines
Try local wines in various flavors, including banana and lychee.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Authentic Flavors
Savor Local Delicacies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Taste Before You Buy
Ask Brice at the back for exceptional wine tastings and rum samples! :wine_glass:
💰 Price Check
Lentils can be pricey (around €16-€25/kg), but authentic. :moneybag:
🗣️ Language Friendly
Vendors often speak English, making communication easy. :speech_balloon:
🛍️ Souvenir Hunt
Find unique handmade items and local souvenirs. :gift:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Taste Before You Buy
Ask Brice at the back for exceptional wine tastings and rum samples! :wine_glass:
💰 Price Check
Lentils can be pricey (around €16-€25/kg), but authentic. :moneybag:
🗣️ Language Friendly
Vendors often speak English, making communication easy. :speech_balloon:
🛍️ Souvenir Hunt
Find unique handmade items and local souvenirs. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cilaos Market is celebrated for its authentic local products, from unique fruits and vegetables to the famous Cilaos lentils and artisanal 'rum arrangé'. While some items can be pricey, the quality and uniqueness of the offerings are highly valued. Visitors particularly enjoy the tasting opportunities and the chance to interact with friendly vendors.
"Very nice local market with food and other products. You Can find nice exotic fruits, for example papaya,green mango, pineapple Victoria (small and very tasty pineapple) and other peculiar products,like the chouchou and strange tomatos. You Can also buy the famous lentils from Cilaos, which are a bit expensive (16 euro per kilo) but not overpriced compared with other places. There is a nice selection of homemade 'rum arrangè', that is Ron flavoured with fruits or flowers, very tipical in Reunion Island. You Can also find wine from Cilaos and nice handmade items."
Andrea
"Somethings are expensive, but you can find a lot of authentic products. Also, fresh fruit and vegetables. They speak English."
Ljubica Tosic
"A very small market with local products, including the famous Cilaos lentils, costing 25 euros per kilo.
You can also find Cilaos wines in various flavors, banana, lychee, chili paste, jam, and more."
Nat Nlp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cilaos Market is located in the heart of Cilaos town. If you're driving, follow signs for Cilaos. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules in advance. Parking can be challenging during peak hours.
While direct bus routes exist to Cilaos, check the latest schedules for specific connections to the market area. It's advisable to confirm with local transport authorities for the most up-to-date information.
The most common way is by car, offering scenic views along the winding road. Alternatively, look for intercity bus services that connect Saint-Denis to Cilaos, though travel time will be longer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cilaos Market is a public market and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely wander and explore the stalls. :ticket:
The market typically operates in the mornings, especially on weekends. It's best to arrive early for the widest selection of fresh produce and artisanal goods. Specific hours can vary, so check locally if possible.
Many vendors may prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases. It's recommended to carry some Euros with you, though some stalls might accept cards. :moneywithwings:
Weekends, particularly Saturdays, tend to be the busiest days at Cilaos Market due to higher local attendance and more vendors. :bustsinsilhouette:
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Products
Don't miss the famous Cilaos lentils, local wines, and 'rum arrangé' (infused rum). Exotic fruits like pineapple Victoria and handmade crafts are also popular choices. :shopping_bags:
You can find Cilaos lentils at various stalls within the market. While prices can vary, they are a signature product of the region. :lentils:
Yes, you can find a good selection of handmade items and local souvenirs, perfect for taking a piece of Reunion Island home with you. :gift:
Many vendors, especially those selling wines and 'rum arrangé', are happy to offer tastings. Brice at the back of the market is particularly known for his generous samples. :ice_cream:
Look for unique local fruits such as pineapple Victoria, green mangoes, papayas, and sometimes peculiar varieties of tomatoes. :tropical_fruit:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the market primarily focuses on produce and artisanal goods, you might find some local snacks or small eateries nearby. It's more about buying ingredients than dining in.
Beyond the market products, explore nearby cafes and restaurants in Cilaos for traditional Reunion Island cuisine. Look for dishes featuring local spices and ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The vibrant colors of the produce, the bustling atmosphere, and the unique products make it a very photogenic location. :camerawithflash:
Mornings offer good natural light and a lively scene. Be mindful of vendors and shoppers; always ask permission before taking close-up photos of people. :sunrise:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
foodie Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Treasures of Cilaos Lentils
When purchasing, you might notice variations in price, with some reviews mentioning figures around €16 to €25 per kilogram. This reflects the specialized nature of their production and the demand for this local delicacy. They are perfect for hearty stews and side dishes, adding an authentic taste of Reunion to your meals.
For those looking to bring a taste of Cilaos home, these lentils are a highly recommended purchase. They represent a significant part of the island's agricultural heritage and culinary identity. :lentils:
Exploring 'Rum Arrangé' and Local Wines
Brice, a vendor specifically mentioned in reviews, is highlighted for his exceptional 'rum arrangé' and wines, and his willingness to let customers taste before buying. His stall, located at the back of the covered market, is a must-visit for an authentic experience and a chance to chat with a knowledgeable local. He also offers a selection of souvenirs, making it a convenient stop for gifts.
Cilaos also produces its own wines, often fruit-based, which are another unique local product to sample and purchase. These beverages offer a delightful way to experience the island's flavors and are perfect for enjoying during your stay or taking home as a special memento. :wineglass: :tropicaldrink:
A Feast for the Senses: Exotic Fruits and Produce
Beyond fruits, the market offers a colorful array of fresh vegetables and local specialties. The 'chouchou' (a type of chayote squash) is another common sight, often prepared in various local dishes. The sheer variety and freshness of the produce make it an exciting place for food enthusiasts and anyone interested in local gastronomy.
Engaging with the vendors can also be a rewarding experience. Many are passionate about their products and happy to share information about how they are grown or prepared. This interaction adds a personal touch to the market visit and enhances the appreciation for the local flavors. :fruit_tree: :tomato:






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit