Cilaos Market - Image 1
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Cilaos Market

3.9
·182 reviews·Cilaos, Réunion

Discover Reunion Island's authentic flavors at Cilaos Market, featuring unique fruits, famous lentils, and artisanal 'rum arrangé'.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Freshest produce and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Cilaos Market - Image 1

Cilaos Market

Best Time

Morning

Freshest produce and lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Reunion Island's authentic flavors at Cilaos Market, featuring unique fruits, famous lentils, and artisanal 'rum arrangé'.

3.9
(182 reviews)

"A wonderful experience in Cilaos; you won't regret it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cilaos Lentils

Cilaos Lentils

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

Rum Arrangé

Rum Arrangé

Sample artisanal rums infused with local fruits and flowers.

Exotic Fruits

Exotic Fruits

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

Cilaos Wines

Cilaos Wines

Try local wines in various flavors, including banana and lychee.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Authentic Flavors

Explore Cilaos Market for unique local produce like pineapple Victoria and exotic fruits. Don't miss the famous Cilaos lentils and artisanal 'rum arrangé'.

Savor Local Delicacies

Indulge in Cilaos wines and homemade jams. Seek out Brice at the back of the market for exceptional wine tastings and souvenirs.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Freshest produce and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More vendors and local buzz
Crowd
High

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

3.9
(182 reviews)

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

Authentic local products
Exotic fruits and lentils
Rum arrangé tastings

What People Dislike

Some items are expensive

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

Cilaos Market offers a fun and educational experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the colorful exotic fruits and the bustling atmosphere. Encourage them to try new tastes, like the sweet pineapple Victoria. It's a great opportunity to teach them about local produce and healthy eating. Remember to bring snacks and drinks for younger children, as the market can get warm. :apple: :banana:

💰 Budget Travelers

While some items like lentils can be a bit pricey, Cilaos Market offers opportunities for budget-conscious travelers. Focus on purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables which are generally more affordable and offer great value. Look for smaller vendors or items that are in season for the best prices. Carrying cash can sometimes lead to better deals. :euro:

foodie Travelers

For food lovers, Cilaos Market is a paradise. Prioritize tasting the famous Cilaos lentils, sampling the diverse 'rum arrangé' infusions, and trying the unique Cilaos wines. Don't shy away from the exotic fruits – they offer a true taste of Reunion Island. Engage with vendors; they often have the best recommendations for preparation and enjoyment. :chefknife: :forkand_knife:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Treasures of Cilaos Lentils

Cilaos is renowned for its unique lentils, a staple ingredient in Reunion Island cuisine. These legumes are cultivated in the fertile volcanic soil of the Cilaos cirque, benefiting from the specific microclimate. While they can be a bit pricier than standard lentils, their distinct flavor and texture are considered worth the cost by many locals and visitors alike. You'll find them sold in bags at the market, often by dedicated producers who can share insights into their cultivation.

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

A visit to Cilaos Market wouldn't be complete without exploring the world of 'rum arrangé' and local Cilaos wines. 'Rum arrangé' is a traditional Reunion Island beverage made by infusing white rum with various fruits, spices, or herbs. At the market, you'll find an array of creative infusions, from classic vanilla and cinnamon to more exotic combinations like lychee, passionfruit, or even chili. Many vendors offer tastings, allowing you to discover your favorite flavor profile.

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

The Cilaos Market is a vibrant showcase of the island's rich agricultural bounty, particularly its exotic fruits and unique produce. Visitors can delight in discovering fruits they might not encounter elsewhere, such as the small, intensely sweet pineapple Victoria, a local specialty. Other treasures include ripe papayas, vibrant green mangoes, and an intriguing variety of tomatoes, some with unusual shapes and colors.

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:

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