Hi there,
Here’s my dilemma:
We’re heading to Réunion for our honeymoon for 3 weeks, then to Mauritius for 1 week.
We’ll have 3 or 4 bags on our round-trip flight from Paris to St Denis, since Air France allows it and it’s more convenient for us.
However, on our round-trip flight from Réunion to Mauritius, we can only have 2 suitcases (1 each).
My question is: does anyone have a tip or workaround for storing 1 or 2 bags during our week in Mauritius? (Airport left-luggage services seem to be non-existent there.)
Thanks for your help!
9 similar discussions in English
Hi everyone, I’m heading to Madagascar in December 2025 and I’d like to know the one-way fare without checked baggage—just cabin luggage—from Tamatave/Toamasina to Saint-Denis on Réunion Island, please. Also, how many days a week are there connections, and how long does the trip take? Thanks!
I’d also like to know about the route between Réunion Island and Mauritius: where does it depart from, how much does it cost, and on which days are there connections? Thanks in advance!
Best regards,
I’d also like to know about the route between Réunion Island and Mauritius: where does it depart from, how much does it cost, and on which days are there connections? Thanks in advance!
Best regards,
My request:
We would like to modify our return flight booking scheduled for December 3 under reference: O__T.
We’d like a flight that gets us to France no later than January 27, 2025, under the same conditions as our current ticket. Please let us know the options and any additional fees. (We paid 2,256 € for the round-trip Bordeaux/Tamatave tickets for 2 people.)
Air Austral’s response: We’ve managed to free up seats for January 22. (Same class.) The penalty and adjustment fee is 895 € per person. (That’s 1,790 € for 2.)
My response: Given the outrageous prices Air Austral is charging for a date change, we’re confirming our flight on December 3, 2024, for Tamatave/Bordeaux. Also, you can count on me to share this experience with Air Austral on various online forums. It’s absolutely shameful to offer a flight change for 1,790 € when buying new tickets would cost us 1,564 €. I think Air Austral’s pricing policy is going to interest a lot of people online, and I can assure you that you’ve just lost two customers who will give you some great publicity.
Despite a complaint, no reaction from Air Austral—they’re clearly in big trouble...
Air Austral’s response: We’ve managed to free up seats for January 22. (Same class.) The penalty and adjustment fee is 895 € per person. (That’s 1,790 € for 2.)
My response: Given the outrageous prices Air Austral is charging for a date change, we’re confirming our flight on December 3, 2024, for Tamatave/Bordeaux. Also, you can count on me to share this experience with Air Austral on various online forums. It’s absolutely shameful to offer a flight change for 1,790 € when buying new tickets would cost us 1,564 €. I think Air Austral’s pricing policy is going to interest a lot of people online, and I can assure you that you’ve just lost two customers who will give you some great publicity.
Despite a complaint, no reaction from Air Austral—they’re clearly in big trouble...
April 5, 2017 The airline Air Austral announces the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Air Madagascar!
Darn it, I’d switched from Air M**ad** to Austral to avoid any more hassles (back in 2015: stuck for 4 days at Ivato, compensation offered was 150 € to use on the next flight—I threw their letter back in their faces and vowed never to fly with them again).
Today, it’s ruined—Air Madagascar’s problems are already rubbing off on Air Austral.
April 26, 2017 Air Austral’s plane leaves Roissy nearly an hour late, even though passengers had been boarded for ages. The captain announces: technical issues with the plane that would be resolved quickly.
April 27 We arrive in Réunion over an hour late, only to learn that the plane supposed to take us to Tamatave—coming from Mauritius—had technical issues mid-flight and is now under review. They promise to update us by 11 AM, which was the original departure time. 11:30 AM, still nothing—we go ask for news, and nothing! By noon, they decide to give us a "royal sandwich" for 3 € and a soft drink. A little later, they finally tell us the flight is canceled and rescheduled for 7 AM the next day. Off to the hotels—some of us won’t eat that evening because not all hotels have restaurants.
April 28 Up at 4 AM to catch the 5 AM bus back to the airport. The same ATR that broke down the day before takes off 20 minutes late for Tamatave—a ten-minute flight over the Indian Ocean before turning right back to Réunion due to *more* technical issues. Back in the airport, no one to greet us. The hall is packed, and we have no idea where to go, so we head upstairs to squat in a private, air-conditioned lounge with leather chairs. There are about twenty of us, so they can’t kick us out and immediately notify Air Austral that we’ve taken over a service provider’s space. We stay there for about 2 hours, but no one from Air Austral dares to come in and update us. We go back downstairs to demand to see a company manager. In private, some staff tell us about Air Austral’s recurring issues—later, we’ll learn that another flight to Mauritius was also postponed until the evening.
After an hour of back-and-forth, someone finally decides to talk to us—it’s already 11 AM. They inform us that a spare part is arriving from Paris tomorrow and promise a 1:20 PM departure. We all stand together and demand a new plane because we’ve lost all trust. They respond that all options have been considered, but unfortunately, the ATRs from Air Madagascar and Air Mauritius are also grounded—how reassuring! (FYI, large planes can’t land on Tamatave’s runway.)
The manager’s only goal is to break us up because as a group, we’re a force they can’t handle. Orders must have been given because 7 or 8 Air Austral staff circle us, handing out hotel vouchers. Unfortunately, everyone’s only thinking about themselves, and they manage to split us up. So, back to the hotels for another night in Saint-Denis.
9 PM: new message—the flight is now pushed to 3 PM, and it keeps going… To be continued tomorrow!
I find Air Austral’s management behavior absolutely unacceptable and shameful! They’re playing fast and loose with their passengers’ lives.
Darn it, I’d switched from Air M**ad** to Austral to avoid any more hassles (back in 2015: stuck for 4 days at Ivato, compensation offered was 150 € to use on the next flight—I threw their letter back in their faces and vowed never to fly with them again).
Today, it’s ruined—Air Madagascar’s problems are already rubbing off on Air Austral.
April 26, 2017 Air Austral’s plane leaves Roissy nearly an hour late, even though passengers had been boarded for ages. The captain announces: technical issues with the plane that would be resolved quickly.
April 27 We arrive in Réunion over an hour late, only to learn that the plane supposed to take us to Tamatave—coming from Mauritius—had technical issues mid-flight and is now under review. They promise to update us by 11 AM, which was the original departure time. 11:30 AM, still nothing—we go ask for news, and nothing! By noon, they decide to give us a "royal sandwich" for 3 € and a soft drink. A little later, they finally tell us the flight is canceled and rescheduled for 7 AM the next day. Off to the hotels—some of us won’t eat that evening because not all hotels have restaurants.
April 28 Up at 4 AM to catch the 5 AM bus back to the airport. The same ATR that broke down the day before takes off 20 minutes late for Tamatave—a ten-minute flight over the Indian Ocean before turning right back to Réunion due to *more* technical issues. Back in the airport, no one to greet us. The hall is packed, and we have no idea where to go, so we head upstairs to squat in a private, air-conditioned lounge with leather chairs. There are about twenty of us, so they can’t kick us out and immediately notify Air Austral that we’ve taken over a service provider’s space. We stay there for about 2 hours, but no one from Air Austral dares to come in and update us. We go back downstairs to demand to see a company manager. In private, some staff tell us about Air Austral’s recurring issues—later, we’ll learn that another flight to Mauritius was also postponed until the evening.
After an hour of back-and-forth, someone finally decides to talk to us—it’s already 11 AM. They inform us that a spare part is arriving from Paris tomorrow and promise a 1:20 PM departure. We all stand together and demand a new plane because we’ve lost all trust. They respond that all options have been considered, but unfortunately, the ATRs from Air Madagascar and Air Mauritius are also grounded—how reassuring! (FYI, large planes can’t land on Tamatave’s runway.)
The manager’s only goal is to break us up because as a group, we’re a force they can’t handle. Orders must have been given because 7 or 8 Air Austral staff circle us, handing out hotel vouchers. Unfortunately, everyone’s only thinking about themselves, and they manage to split us up. So, back to the hotels for another night in Saint-Denis.
9 PM: new message—the flight is now pushed to 3 PM, and it keeps going… To be continued tomorrow!
I find Air Austral’s management behavior absolutely unacceptable and shameful! They’re playing fast and loose with their passengers’ lives.
Hello!
My wife and I (Quebecers, 63 years old, retired, celebrating our 45 years together this year, including 20 years of marriage) have chosen to mark the occasion with a trip to Dubai, Réunion, and Mauritius (4 days in Dubai, then 24 days on the islands).
We have a lot of experience planning road trips (scouting routes, visits, hotels, and restaurants of interest), but we travel without reservations to keep the freedom to follow our instincts and tips we get on the spot. We’re moderately active physically and prefer the countryside and beaches over big cities. Our only fixed dates: arrival in Réunion on October 5th and departure from Mauritius on October 29th.
After lots of reading and with the help of an AI (super useful for drafting a first outline!), here’s a possible itinerary framework. Nothing is set in stone—I’d love your suggestions, comments, and thoughts on what’s worth adding or avoiding. Are the proposed bases optimal? Also, if you have recommendations for hotels (mid-range budget of 100–200 euros per night), restaurants, etc., I’m all ears! ;-)
Thanks! 😊
🌴 Réunion (October 5–13, 9 days) Base 1 – Saint-Gilles / L’Hermitage (October 5–8, 3 nights) Oct 5 (Sun): Settle in, relax at L’Hermitage beach. Oct 6 (Mon): Saint-Paul market (morning), beach + sunset at Boucan Canot. Oct 7 (Tue): Excursion to Maïdo (view of Mafate), return via Saint-Leu (Stella Matutina). Oct 8 (Wed): Beach + dolphin/whale-watching boat trip.
Base 2 – Cilaos (October 8–10, 2 nights) Oct 9 (Thu): Route des 400 virages, stroll through the village and Roche Merveilleuse. Oct 10 (Fri): Hike to Bras Rouge (3–4h) or the Chapelle canyon. Creole inn evening.
Base 3 – Plaine des Cafres / Bourg-Murat (October 10–13, 3 nights) Oct 11 (Sat): Road to the volcano → Plaine des Sables → Piton de la Fournaise. Oct 12 (Sun): Wild south coast at Cap Méchant, lava flows, Jardin Parfums, Grande Anse beach. Oct 13 (Mon): Relaxed morning, flight from Réunion to Mauritius.
🏝️ Mauritius (October 13–29, 16 days) Base 1 – Grand Baie / Pereybère (October 13–18, 5 nights) Oct 13 (Mon): Settle in, swim at Mont Choisy. Oct 14 (Tue): Boat excursion to Île Plate & Coin de Mire. Oct 15 (Wed): Pamplemousses Garden + L’Aventure du Sucre. Evening in Grand Baie. Oct 16 (Thu): Trou aux Biches beach, snorkeling. Oct 17 (Fri): Free day, relaxation/shopping.
Base 2 – Flic-en-Flac / Tamarin (October 18–23, 5 nights) Oct 18 (Sat): Drive to the west, settle in, beach. Oct 19 (Sun): Dolphin excursion in Tamarin, relax in the afternoon. Oct 20 (Mon): Chamarel: Terres 7 Couleurs + rum distillery. Oct 21 (Tue): Black River Gorges (hike + waterfalls). Oct 22 (Wed): Snorkeling + sunset.
Base 3 – Belle Mare / Trou d’Eau Douce (October 23–26, 3 nights) Oct 23 (Thu): Settle in, Belle Mare beach. Oct 24 (Fri): Catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs. Oct 25 (Sat): Flacq market (morning), beach in the afternoon.
Base 4 – Mahébourg / Blue Bay (October 26–29, 3 nights) Oct 26 (Sun): Settle in, snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park. Oct 27 (Mon): Pointe d’Esny + Île aux Aigrettes. Oct 28 (Tue): Free beach day + Mahébourg village. Oct 29 (Wed): Morning swim, return flight at 4 PM (airport is 15 min away).
My wife and I (Quebecers, 63 years old, retired, celebrating our 45 years together this year, including 20 years of marriage) have chosen to mark the occasion with a trip to Dubai, Réunion, and Mauritius (4 days in Dubai, then 24 days on the islands).
We have a lot of experience planning road trips (scouting routes, visits, hotels, and restaurants of interest), but we travel without reservations to keep the freedom to follow our instincts and tips we get on the spot. We’re moderately active physically and prefer the countryside and beaches over big cities. Our only fixed dates: arrival in Réunion on October 5th and departure from Mauritius on October 29th.
After lots of reading and with the help of an AI (super useful for drafting a first outline!), here’s a possible itinerary framework. Nothing is set in stone—I’d love your suggestions, comments, and thoughts on what’s worth adding or avoiding. Are the proposed bases optimal? Also, if you have recommendations for hotels (mid-range budget of 100–200 euros per night), restaurants, etc., I’m all ears! ;-)
Thanks! 😊
🌴 Réunion (October 5–13, 9 days) Base 1 – Saint-Gilles / L’Hermitage (October 5–8, 3 nights) Oct 5 (Sun): Settle in, relax at L’Hermitage beach. Oct 6 (Mon): Saint-Paul market (morning), beach + sunset at Boucan Canot. Oct 7 (Tue): Excursion to Maïdo (view of Mafate), return via Saint-Leu (Stella Matutina). Oct 8 (Wed): Beach + dolphin/whale-watching boat trip.
Base 2 – Cilaos (October 8–10, 2 nights) Oct 9 (Thu): Route des 400 virages, stroll through the village and Roche Merveilleuse. Oct 10 (Fri): Hike to Bras Rouge (3–4h) or the Chapelle canyon. Creole inn evening.
Base 3 – Plaine des Cafres / Bourg-Murat (October 10–13, 3 nights) Oct 11 (Sat): Road to the volcano → Plaine des Sables → Piton de la Fournaise. Oct 12 (Sun): Wild south coast at Cap Méchant, lava flows, Jardin Parfums, Grande Anse beach. Oct 13 (Mon): Relaxed morning, flight from Réunion to Mauritius.
🏝️ Mauritius (October 13–29, 16 days) Base 1 – Grand Baie / Pereybère (October 13–18, 5 nights) Oct 13 (Mon): Settle in, swim at Mont Choisy. Oct 14 (Tue): Boat excursion to Île Plate & Coin de Mire. Oct 15 (Wed): Pamplemousses Garden + L’Aventure du Sucre. Evening in Grand Baie. Oct 16 (Thu): Trou aux Biches beach, snorkeling. Oct 17 (Fri): Free day, relaxation/shopping.
Base 2 – Flic-en-Flac / Tamarin (October 18–23, 5 nights) Oct 18 (Sat): Drive to the west, settle in, beach. Oct 19 (Sun): Dolphin excursion in Tamarin, relax in the afternoon. Oct 20 (Mon): Chamarel: Terres 7 Couleurs + rum distillery. Oct 21 (Tue): Black River Gorges (hike + waterfalls). Oct 22 (Wed): Snorkeling + sunset.
Base 3 – Belle Mare / Trou d’Eau Douce (October 23–26, 3 nights) Oct 23 (Thu): Settle in, Belle Mare beach. Oct 24 (Fri): Catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs. Oct 25 (Sat): Flacq market (morning), beach in the afternoon.
Base 4 – Mahébourg / Blue Bay (October 26–29, 3 nights) Oct 26 (Sun): Settle in, snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park. Oct 27 (Mon): Pointe d’Esny + Île aux Aigrettes. Oct 28 (Tue): Free beach day + Mahébourg village. Oct 29 (Wed): Morning swim, return flight at 4 PM (airport is 15 min away).
Réunion Island, this paradise in the Indian Ocean, is a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts. With its active volcanoes, majestic cirques, and impressive peaks, there’s plenty to delight nature and adventure lovers. This article takes you on a journey to discover the eight most beautiful hikes the island has to offer. Lace up your hiking boots—let’s go!
1- Piton des Neiges: The Summit of Réunion
Piton des Neiges is the highest point on Réunion Island at 3,070 meters. It’s an iconic hike that attracts a large number of hikers every year. Climbing Piton des Neiges is like stepping into a unique atmosphere where volcanic landscapes blend with lush vegetation.
The hike usually starts from the picturesque village of Cilaos. It takes about six hours to reach the summit, so good physical condition is a must. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire island. A simple flight from Paris to Saint-Denis and you’re ready for this stunning adventure.
Here are a few tips:
Bring warm clothes—it can get very cold at the summit. Pack enough water and food. Start before dawn to catch the sunrise from the summit.
2- Piton de la Fournaise: A Volcanic Walk
You can’t visit Réunion without stopping by Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The hike usually begins at Pas de Bellecombe, accessible after a winding road that already offers spectacular views. The well-marked trail first takes you through lunar landscapes to the Enclos Fouqué, then continues toward the Dolomieu crater. Frequent eruptions often change the scenery, making each visit unique. Piton de la Fournaise is a grand natural spectacle you won’t want to miss during your trip.
Here are a few tips:
Check the volcano’s current activity before heading out. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on solidified lava. Always bring maps or a GPS, as signs may be damaged by eruptions.
3- Cirque de Mafate: In the Heart of Nature
Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, the Cirque de Mafate is a true paradise for hikers. This isolated area offers a multitude of trails leading to authentic villages, stunning viewpoints, and untouched nature. The Sentier Scout is one of the most popular routes for exploring Mafate. It starts at Le Bélier, passes through the Col des Bœufs, and then descends into the cirque. Get ready to be amazed by the enchanting panoramas and majestic peaks along the way. It’s a full immersion into the tranquility of Mafate.
Here are a few tips:
Wear good hiking shoes, as some sections can be steep. Book your nights in a gîte in advance if you’re planning a multi-day hike. Respect the environment and locals by taking all your trash with you.
4- Cirque de Cilaos: Between Mountains and Vineyards
The Cirque de Cilaos, with its waterfalls and lush forests, also offers magnificent hiking opportunities. One of the most remarkable trails leads to Grand Bénare, the island’s third-highest peak.
The hike usually starts from the Plateau des Chênes. This moderate-difficulty hike takes about five hours to reach the summit. Once there, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Cirque de Cilaos and Piton des Neiges.
Here are a few tips:
Start early to avoid clouds that can quickly envelop the summit. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Visit the vineyards of Cilaos after your hike to taste local wine.
5- Cirque de Salazie: The Valley of Waterfalls
Known for its humid climate, the Cirque de Salazie is filled with impressive waterfalls and lush tropical forests. One of the most popular hikes leads to the Trou de Fer.
The trail starts in Hell-Bourg, ranked among France’s most beautiful villages. After a few hours of hiking through primary forest, you’ll reach a viewpoint offering an incredible view of the Trou de Fer’s abyss and its dizzying waterfalls.
Here are a few tips:
Wear waterproof and mosquito-repellent clothing. Bring a headlamp and compass, as fog can make the trail hard to follow. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially after heavy rain.
6- Grand Bénare: A Stunning Panorama
Grand Bénare offers a spectacular hike that’s a must-do on Réunion Island. Starting from the well-known viewpoint of Maïdo, the challenging yet rewarding ascent leads to the summit.
Over about ten kilometers of climbing through varied vegetation, the summit reveals a breathtaking panorama of the three cirques—Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie. It’s a true feast for the eyes and a memorable experience for mountain lovers.
Here are a few tips:
Go when the weather is clear to fully enjoy the view from the summit. Wear good hiking shoes and bring trekking poles to make the climb easier. Don’t underestimate the duration—prepare physically for this long hike.
7- Roche Écrite: Biodiversity at Altitude
Located between the Cirque de Salazie and the Cirque de Mafate, Roche Écrite offers a hike that lets you discover exceptional flora and fauna. The hike often starts at Le Colorado, near Saint-Denis, the island’s capital.
After several hours of walking through tropical forests and varied landscapes, you’ll reach the summit at 2,276 meters. From there, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the two adjacent cirques and even spot Piton des Neiges in the distance. A must for adventurers and budding biologists.
Here are a few tips:
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly at altitude. Bring binoculars to observe endemic birds and other wildlife. Take regular breaks to soak in the scenery and recharge your energy.
8- Col des Bœufs: The Gateway to Mafate
Col des Bœufs is another popular starting point for accessing the Cirque de Mafate. This comfortable hike offers beautiful views along the way and leads to picturesque villages like Marla and La Nouvelle.
The trail starts gently from the Col des Bœufs parking lot, climbing slightly before revealing a panoramic view of Mafate. Perfect for a relaxed day hike, this route is suitable for all levels of hikers.
Here are a few tips:
Bring a picnic to enjoy a lunch break with a view. Start early to avoid crowds and the afternoon heat. Check local bus schedules to avoid any surprises at the end of your hike.
In conclusion, Réunion Island offers a multitude of exceptional hikes that let you discover breathtaking landscapes—volcanoes, cirques, tropical forests, and waterfalls. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, the island will amaze you with the diversity of its trails. Get ready for unforgettable adventures in the heart of preserved nature while admiring the unique beauty of this volcanic island.
1- Piton des Neiges: The Summit of Réunion
Piton des Neiges is the highest point on Réunion Island at 3,070 meters. It’s an iconic hike that attracts a large number of hikers every year. Climbing Piton des Neiges is like stepping into a unique atmosphere where volcanic landscapes blend with lush vegetation.
The hike usually starts from the picturesque village of Cilaos. It takes about six hours to reach the summit, so good physical condition is a must. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire island. A simple flight from Paris to Saint-Denis and you’re ready for this stunning adventure.
Here are a few tips:
Bring warm clothes—it can get very cold at the summit. Pack enough water and food. Start before dawn to catch the sunrise from the summit.
2- Piton de la Fournaise: A Volcanic Walk
You can’t visit Réunion without stopping by Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The hike usually begins at Pas de Bellecombe, accessible after a winding road that already offers spectacular views. The well-marked trail first takes you through lunar landscapes to the Enclos Fouqué, then continues toward the Dolomieu crater. Frequent eruptions often change the scenery, making each visit unique. Piton de la Fournaise is a grand natural spectacle you won’t want to miss during your trip.
Here are a few tips:
Check the volcano’s current activity before heading out. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on solidified lava. Always bring maps or a GPS, as signs may be damaged by eruptions.
3- Cirque de Mafate: In the Heart of Nature
Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, the Cirque de Mafate is a true paradise for hikers. This isolated area offers a multitude of trails leading to authentic villages, stunning viewpoints, and untouched nature. The Sentier Scout is one of the most popular routes for exploring Mafate. It starts at Le Bélier, passes through the Col des Bœufs, and then descends into the cirque. Get ready to be amazed by the enchanting panoramas and majestic peaks along the way. It’s a full immersion into the tranquility of Mafate.
Here are a few tips:
Wear good hiking shoes, as some sections can be steep. Book your nights in a gîte in advance if you’re planning a multi-day hike. Respect the environment and locals by taking all your trash with you.
4- Cirque de Cilaos: Between Mountains and Vineyards
The Cirque de Cilaos, with its waterfalls and lush forests, also offers magnificent hiking opportunities. One of the most remarkable trails leads to Grand Bénare, the island’s third-highest peak.
The hike usually starts from the Plateau des Chênes. This moderate-difficulty hike takes about five hours to reach the summit. Once there, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Cirque de Cilaos and Piton des Neiges.
Here are a few tips:
Start early to avoid clouds that can quickly envelop the summit. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Visit the vineyards of Cilaos after your hike to taste local wine.
5- Cirque de Salazie: The Valley of Waterfalls
Known for its humid climate, the Cirque de Salazie is filled with impressive waterfalls and lush tropical forests. One of the most popular hikes leads to the Trou de Fer.
The trail starts in Hell-Bourg, ranked among France’s most beautiful villages. After a few hours of hiking through primary forest, you’ll reach a viewpoint offering an incredible view of the Trou de Fer’s abyss and its dizzying waterfalls.
Here are a few tips:
Wear waterproof and mosquito-repellent clothing. Bring a headlamp and compass, as fog can make the trail hard to follow. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially after heavy rain.
6- Grand Bénare: A Stunning Panorama
Grand Bénare offers a spectacular hike that’s a must-do on Réunion Island. Starting from the well-known viewpoint of Maïdo, the challenging yet rewarding ascent leads to the summit.
Over about ten kilometers of climbing through varied vegetation, the summit reveals a breathtaking panorama of the three cirques—Mafate, Cilaos, and Salazie. It’s a true feast for the eyes and a memorable experience for mountain lovers.
Here are a few tips:
Go when the weather is clear to fully enjoy the view from the summit. Wear good hiking shoes and bring trekking poles to make the climb easier. Don’t underestimate the duration—prepare physically for this long hike.
7- Roche Écrite: Biodiversity at Altitude
Located between the Cirque de Salazie and the Cirque de Mafate, Roche Écrite offers a hike that lets you discover exceptional flora and fauna. The hike often starts at Le Colorado, near Saint-Denis, the island’s capital.
After several hours of walking through tropical forests and varied landscapes, you’ll reach the summit at 2,276 meters. From there, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the two adjacent cirques and even spot Piton des Neiges in the distance. A must for adventurers and budding biologists.
Here are a few tips:
Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly at altitude. Bring binoculars to observe endemic birds and other wildlife. Take regular breaks to soak in the scenery and recharge your energy.
8- Col des Bœufs: The Gateway to Mafate
Col des Bœufs is another popular starting point for accessing the Cirque de Mafate. This comfortable hike offers beautiful views along the way and leads to picturesque villages like Marla and La Nouvelle.
The trail starts gently from the Col des Bœufs parking lot, climbing slightly before revealing a panoramic view of Mafate. Perfect for a relaxed day hike, this route is suitable for all levels of hikers.
Here are a few tips:
Bring a picnic to enjoy a lunch break with a view. Start early to avoid crowds and the afternoon heat. Check local bus schedules to avoid any surprises at the end of your hike.
In conclusion, Réunion Island offers a multitude of exceptional hikes that let you discover breathtaking landscapes—volcanoes, cirques, tropical forests, and waterfalls. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, the island will amaze you with the diversity of its trails. Get ready for unforgettable adventures in the heart of preserved nature while admiring the unique beauty of this volcanic island.
Hi everyone,
I’m from Annecy and I’ve traveled quite a bit, thanks to VF and friends.
I’m looking for someone to travel with for a month in December. I could add New Zealand and later Japan or Bali. I’ve traveled often, in backpacker style, but I also enjoy comfort.
I’d prefer someone who doesn’t live too far from my area so we can meet beforehand.
I’m 70 years old, I love walking, music, water, nature, and sometimes just listening to the silence...
Looking forward to hearing from you. Cécile
Hello, we’re a couple over 70 and will be spending about six weeks in Réunion next January/February, staying first in Saint-Leu and then in Saint-Pierre, each time in independent accommodations. We’ll have a car and enjoy hiking, though nothing too strenuous. Otherwise, we live quietly—cooking our own meals and exploring at a relaxed pace. Our goal is simply to escape the harshest part of the European winter in good conditions. Can anyone share some great tips, easy hikes, must-see spots, or surprising activities? In return, we’d be happy to share insights about Valais in Switzerland—a sunny but chilly winter destination! Best, Bernard.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
On the Orly-Saint-Denis flight, under the pretext that Air France had paired their delicious chicken with mushrooms meal with a little bottle of rum, Dom noticed that some passengers hadn’t even opened theirs. So he bribed a flight attendant to bring him the abandoned mini bottles! Needless to say, the guy slept like a baby!
Sunday, September 29, 2019 Saint-Pierre
A flawless journey (well, except for a minor distraction in the massive Hertz queue that led me to cut in front of a few young couples, who weren’t too happy about it—though I joked with the agent about it: *"It happens!"*). We ended up at Hôtel Le Battant des Lames in Saint-Pierre, a gorgeous combo of an infinity pool and the Indian Ocean. We rushed straight into the pool—after over ten hours of sitting on a plane, it felt *amazing*!
We didn’t waste any time—you know Dom—exploring the city on foot. It’s lovely: the seaside is well-developed, it’s tropical, but with the budget of a wealthy country.
Réunion is also famous for its killer sharks…
A Creole music group was playing at a seaside bar, so we settled in.
Night fell, and with it, swarms of insects suddenly invaded the city!
One of the few signs of the tropics here! Insects, geckos, and cockroaches...
Monday, September 30, 2019
Saint-Pierre
We were disappointed, of course! We could’ve gotten a photo of our *aura* and missed the chance by just a week! In tears, we decided to tackle the island’s most famous site.
Excursion to Piton de la Fournaise. The plan was to head to one of the nearby parking lots and take a relaxed stroll. But it quickly turned into… something else.
First, I realized the built-in GPS operates on a pretty basic algorithm—like the earliest models. If there’s a bumpy road that even the toughest Mitsubishi 4x4 struggles with, a path through a junkyard, or any shortcut to save a few meters, it’ll proudly suggest it. So instead of taking the main road—the royal route to the famous volcano—we ended up on charming little mountain roads…
On the Orly-Saint-Denis flight, under the pretext that Air France had paired their delicious chicken with mushrooms meal with a little bottle of rum, Dom noticed that some passengers hadn’t even opened theirs. So he bribed a flight attendant to bring him the abandoned mini bottles! Needless to say, the guy slept like a baby!
Sunday, September 29, 2019 Saint-Pierre
A flawless journey (well, except for a minor distraction in the massive Hertz queue that led me to cut in front of a few young couples, who weren’t too happy about it—though I joked with the agent about it: *"It happens!"*). We ended up at Hôtel Le Battant des Lames in Saint-Pierre, a gorgeous combo of an infinity pool and the Indian Ocean. We rushed straight into the pool—after over ten hours of sitting on a plane, it felt *amazing*!
We didn’t waste any time—you know Dom—exploring the city on foot. It’s lovely: the seaside is well-developed, it’s tropical, but with the budget of a wealthy country.
Réunion is also famous for its killer sharks…
A Creole music group was playing at a seaside bar, so we settled in.
Night fell, and with it, swarms of insects suddenly invaded the city!
One of the few signs of the tropics here! Insects, geckos, and cockroaches...
Monday, September 30, 2019
Saint-Pierre
We were disappointed, of course! We could’ve gotten a photo of our *aura* and missed the chance by just a week! In tears, we decided to tackle the island’s most famous site.
Excursion to Piton de la Fournaise. The plan was to head to one of the nearby parking lots and take a relaxed stroll. But it quickly turned into… something else.
First, I realized the built-in GPS operates on a pretty basic algorithm—like the earliest models. If there’s a bumpy road that even the toughest Mitsubishi 4x4 struggles with, a path through a junkyard, or any shortcut to save a few meters, it’ll proudly suggest it. So instead of taking the main road—the royal route to the famous volcano—we ended up on charming little mountain roads…