In Cilaos, they use Type C and E power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
So, you’ll need a travel adapter in Cilaos. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in Cilaos:
- Plug type in Cilaos: C and E
- Standard voltage: 230V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Only necessary for specific appliances
- Recommended plug adapter: Vintar Universal Travel Adapter Kit
All data on this page is checked against official local regulations, IEC international standards, and feedback from travelers who’ve recently visited this destination.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Cilaos
Not all travel adapters work in Cilaos. Pick the wrong one, and your devices might not charge at all. We don’t sell them, but we’ve researched the best one for you—safe, durable, and easy to use:
Already on the road or at your hotel and just realized you didn’t bring a power adapter? No worries. You can often buy one nearby.
That said, having one ready before your next trip just makes things easier—and saves you from settling for whatever’s available last minute.
Cilaos is frequently combined with travel to Madagascar, Mauritius, or Mayotte. Check plug types before you go.
Power Outlets in Cilaos
In Cilaos, they use Type C and E power plugs and outlets.
Type C
Type C outlets have two round prongs and no grounding pin. Type E and F plugs usually fit too, but grounded plugs will need an adapter.
Type E
Type E outlets have two round prongs and a grounding pin at the top. Type C and F plugs will also fit.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Your electronics must match the voltage of the country you’re visiting, and in Cilaos, the voltage is different from the 120V we use in the U.S. That means you’ll probably need a converter.
Always check the power label on your device before using it abroad. If it lists “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, your device is dual voltage and works with both 120V and 220-240V power sources without a converter. This applies to laptops, tablets, smartphones, cameras, and rechargeable toothbrushes.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Not sure which voltage converter to get? Take a look at the best-rated ones right here.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
You’ve got your adapter—great. But here are a few more essentials that frequent travelers swear by. They’re small, but seriously useful.
More About Cilaos
Cilaos sits in a breathtaking volcanic amphitheater, perched at about 4,000 ft (1,200 m), reached by a hairpin-road with 400+ turns—so buckle in for one of the most epic drives you’ll ever take. This peaceful mountain town is famous for its star ingredient—tiny high-altitude lentils. Every October, locals celebrate the Lentil Festival with all sorts of hearty dishes and village pride.
Cilaos is an embroidery hotspot too. The traditional “jours de Cilaos” stitch was taught by local nuns in the early 1900s, and you can watch them at work in the Maison de la Broderie. The town also has soothing thermal springs and cold volcanic streams perfect for relaxing after a hike.
Outdoorsy types, you’re in for a treat. Cilaos is the launch pad for big-trail hikes—GR R1 and R2 circumnavigate Piton des Neiges and connect the three cirques. With guesthouses, local produce markets, and a slower pace, it’s a cozy mountain escape with serious character.
Cilaos uses the same plugs and outlets as the rest of Réunion.