Insectarium of Réunion
In Le Port, the Insectarium of Réunion showcases live insects, butterflies and endemic beetles in an educational space accessible to all ages.
The Insectarium of Réunion is a discovery space dedicated to the island's insects and arthropods, located in Le Port, in western Réunion. It features living species and entomological collections, with particular attention to the island's endemic biodiversity. It is one of the rare places on the island to offer an educational approach centered on the world of invertebrates.
What you'll see
The insectarium brings together live specimens — insects, spiders, scorpions, stick insects — as well as collections of pinned butterflies and beetles. Part of the exhibition highlights Réunion's endemic species and the interactions between insects and local vegetation. Explanatory panels accompany each display case to provide context for the species presented.
History and context
Réunion is home to a rich entomofauna, partly unknown to the general public. The insectarium was created to raise awareness among residents and visitors about this often invisible natural heritage. The island is home to several endemic insect species, particularly among beetles and butterflies, some of which are threatened by deforestation and invasive species.
Highlights of the visit
Live species
Observing insects in terrariums — stick insects, mantises, giant cockroaches — forms the heart of the visit. These displays allow you to observe behaviors difficult to see in nature.
Entomological collections
Display cases of pinned specimens offer a panorama of the diversity of Réunion and exotic insects: butterflies with colorful wings, beetles with varied forms, and rare species rarely displayed elsewhere on the island.
The educational dimension
The insectarium regularly welcomes school groups. Explanations about the role of insects in ecosystems — pollination, decomposition, food chains — are accessible to all ages.
Photography tips
The artificial light in the terrariums can complicate focus. Disable the flash to avoid stressing the animals and prioritize macro mode if your device allows. The display cases of pinned collections, well lit, offer beautiful opportunities for close-up shots.
Location and access
The insectarium is located in Le Port, a port town in western Réunion, accessible from Saint-Denis or Saint-Paul via the coastal road (RN1). Le Port is served by the Kar'Ouest intercity bus network. The town center is compact and easily navigable on foot from the main bus stops.
Nearby attractions
- La Saline-les-Bains Beach — one of the most frequented lagoon beaches in western Réunion, a few kilometers south.
- Saint-Paul Open-air Market — large Creole market on Friday and Saturday mornings, in neighboring Saint-Paul.
- Villèle Museum — former classified sugar estate, in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts, which tells the story of the island's colonial and slave trade history.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the visit format — terrariums at child height, illustrated explanations — is adapted for young visitors. Some children may be impressed by larger species; guides can prepare the visit in advance.
Some educational activities allow supervised handling of harmless live specimens. Contact the insectarium directly to learn about the conditions depending on the period of your visit.
A complete visit typically takes one to one and a half hours, longer if you participate in an activity or visit with a school group.
Contact the insectarium directly to confirm accessibility for people with reduced mobility, as available information on this subject is not precise enough to be guaranteed here.
Le Port is a convenient stop on the western route. You can continue to the beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or the market in Saint-Paul in the same half-day.
Interested in this visit?
We can include it in your personalised itinerary.
