In France (and therefore in Réunion, a French department), sleeping in your vehicle is not forbidden by law. What may be forbidden is the parking itself in certain areas. The distinction matters: you can sleep in your van if parking is allowed there.

However, wild camping — that is, getting out of the van, pitching a tent or settling on the ground — is subject to stricter rules and often forbidden in protected natural areas.

The ONF (National Forestry Office) car parks are generally open to overnight parking unless a sign says otherwise. Réunion’s highlands have many forest car parks perfect for a night in a van. Likewise, rest areas and viewpoint car parks are generally tolerated.

Some municipalities have developed motorhome areas — ask at the local tourist offices. Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul have such areas.

Réunion’s beaches are subject to municipal orders forbidding camping and prolonged overnight parking in most municipalities. The car parks of Saint-Gilles, Boucan Canot and l’Ermitage beaches in particular are monitored and camping is forbidden there.

Natura 2000 areas and the heart of the National Park formally forbid wild camping. Strictly respect these prohibitions — they protect a biodiversity unique in the world.

Discretion is your best ally. A well-parked van, blacked-out windows, no music and no campfire — you’ll often go unnoticed even in areas where camping is theoretically regulated.

A few common-sense rules: leave the place clean (even cleaner than when you arrived), don’t stay more than 2 nights in the same place, be polite with locals if someone approaches you.

If checked by the police or ONF officers, stay calm and polite. Show your van rental contract. Sleeping in a vehicle is not a criminal offence — you won’t risk custody.

However, if you’re in a parking violation (prohibition sign), you may receive a standard parking fine. Agree to move if asked, and thank the officer.