Refine your search for walks in Canal Lemarchand
Canal Lemarchand walks
Mafate via the Rivière des Galets
Tourist office
10.40 mi
+440 ft
-449 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
The Cirque de Mafate is accessible from many different points. The flat track is easy to follow and suitable for everyone. Families can come on this walk and turn back at any time. You can even take a dip in the Rivière des Galets. The track runs straight ahead, winding its way between rock faces that grow ever higher as you go.
Walks near Canal Lemarchand
Sans-Souci – Roche Plate
Visorando Member
10.39 mi
+4,117 ft
-2,087 ft
8h 20
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
What hiker hasn’t dreamt of walking the Cirque de Mafate on Réunion? This hike is renowned for being challenging, with a considerable elevation gain. But the scenery is spectacular!
Please note: the elevation gain given is an overestimate; it is actually only about 1,200 metres uphill and 800 metres downhill.
La Possession – Grande Chaloupe
4.76 mi
+1,122 ft
-1,135 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Réunion
Eighth stage of the island tour, following the railway line as closely as possible. After the long flat stretch of the previous stages, this short stage sees a return to uphill terrain. As access to the tunnel is officially prohibited, you must go via the Chemin des Anglais, which includes sections with steep gradients. This is a very old paved path that is now a must-do hike on the island.
From La Possession to Saint-Denis via the Chemin des Anglais and the Colorado
12.29 mi
+4,006 ft
-3,770 ft
9h 10
Difficult
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
Here’s an original way to get from La Possession to Saint-Denis. This is the final section of the Grand Raid, one of the world’s toughest mountain races. Nearly half of the walk follows the Chemin des Anglais, a cobbled path steeped in history and offering stunning views. This route passes through La Grande-Chaloupe and Le Colorado. This walk requires a certain level of fitness.
From Deux Bras to Îlet à Malheur via the footbridge
3.80 mi
+2,838 ft
-955 ft
4h 15
Moderate
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
Here’s a pleasant way to explore the northern part of the Mafate cirque via a path that climbs on the way there and therefore descends on the way back – a rare route for entering Mafate.
If you’re fit enough, you can complete the round trip in a single day. Otherwise, you can easily stay overnight at Îlet à Malheur (remember to book) and make the return journey the following day, for example via Aurère (see the Îlet à Malheur – Deux Bras route via the La Noix basin).
From Saint-Paul to Trou d'Eau via the beaches
9.42 mi
+75 ft
-89 ft
4h 25
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
The west of Réunion is very popular for its white sandy beaches stretching for miles! Starting from Saint-Paul, you’ll come across plenty of sights. Some beaches are particularly beautiful when they’re not crowded. Of course, you can take your time visiting the coastal towns along the way or taking a dip in the water. There are plenty of places to stop for refreshments all along the route! But we strongly recommend bringing a hat!
Cayenne - Roche Plate
4.34 mi
+3,583 ft
-1,683 ft
5h 05
Difficult
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
The passage near the Ravine Grand Mère caldera is breathtaking.
From Cayenne to Aurère
3.66 mi
+2,579 ft
-1,322 ft
3h 55
Difficult
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
From Cayenne to Deux-Bras, follow the course of the Rivière des Galets, avoiding the path down to the riverbed. Instead, take the path on the right leading to the Bras d’Oussy footbridge. After crossing the bridge, turn right towards Aurère, beginning the ascent to Bord Bazar. The climb begins with a secured section along a cliff face, offering breathtaking views of the Maïdo rampart and Piton Tortue. The Bambou spring signals the imminent end of this adventure, marking a harmonious exploration where humanity and majestic nature come together.
Aurére – Cayenne
4.46 mi
+1,565 ft
-2,812 ft
3h 25
Moderate
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
A detour to the centre of Mafate.
