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Cilaos walks
The Bras Rouge Circular from Cilaos
Visorando Member 
7.56 mi
+2,966 ft
-2,959 ft
6h 05
Difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
A magnificent hike in the Cirque de Cilaos, with numerous streams and waterfalls, including Bras Rouge, Fouquet and Alfred. The hike sometimes follows a balcony path at the foot of the three Salazes and Piton des Neiges. You can take the time to relax in the Alfred pools and its small waterfall.
The Chapel at the start of the trail from Cilaos
Visorando Member 
4.56 mi
+2,041 ft
-2,067 ft
3h 55
Difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
One of the most beautiful hikes around Cilaos, offering the chance to discover an exceptional site: the entrance to a canyon carved out by the river through a monolith over 100 metres wide and high, with three pools of clear, cool water.
The Bras Rouge Waterfall
Visorando Member 
2.61 mi
+1,047 ft
-1,066 ft
2h 05
Easy
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
the Bras Rouge waterfall is a must-see site in the Cirque de Cilaos. Two trails lead to the waterfall: the first starts at the old thermal baths and the second at the start of the Taïbit trail. This itinerary is the first of the two. Easy and family-friendly, it offers beautiful views of the western part of the cirque. It is a classic in Cilaos and is very popular!
From the Plateau des Chênes to La Roche Merveilleuse
Visorando Member 
3.15 mi
+856 ft
-833 ft
2h 10
Easy
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
La Roche Merveilleuse offers a beautiful view of the Cirque de Cilaos. It would be a shame to miss it. There are a few trails here and there that allow you to hike peacefully around the viewpoint. There is even a discovery trail. The proposed hike is not particularly difficult.
Piton des Neiges and Coteau Kervéguen
Visorando Member 10.06 mi
+6,227 ft
-6,158 ft
10 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
The ascent of Piton des Neiges, the highest point on the island of Réunion (and in the entire Indian Ocean), offers a unique 360° panorama. This is a popular hike, for which we suggest a less travelled descent route.
Cilaos le Bloc - Dufour Refuge
Visorando Member 
2.19 mi
+3,668 ft
-72 ft
4 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
A gruelling 4-hour climb over log steps or very slippery boulders leading to the Refuge de la Caverne Dufour.
Ascent to the Col du Taïbit
Association / Club / Walk leader 
4.02 mi
+2,851 ft
-2,838 ft
4h 20
Moderate
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
A round trip to enjoy the view at Col du Taïbit. View of the Cirque de Cilaos and, on the other side, the Cirque de Mafate. On the way, you will pass by Îlet des Salazes.
Refuge Dufour – Piton des Neiges – Hell Bourg
Visorando Member 
7.96 mi
+2,041 ft
-6,946 ft
5h 25
Difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
A gruelling hike (in terms of duration), with a night-time ascent of Piton des Neiges to watch the sunrise, a return to the refuge to collect your rucksack, then a descent to Hell Bourg. Consider spending a day in Hell Bourg and visiting the ancient thermal baths.
Dufour Cave - Cilaos
Visorando Member 
5.04 mi
+328 ft
-4,485 ft
2h 35
Difficult
Departure from Cilaos (Réunion)
Due to a typhoon passing near the island, bad weather prevented us from climbing to Piton des Neiges. So we descended directly to Cilaos from the Dufour cave refuge.
Marla - Cilaos
Visorando Member 
2.65 mi
+1,588 ft
-2,687 ft
2h 35
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
Third and final day in the Cirque de Mafate, heading back to Cilaos.
Marla - Roche Plate
Visorando Member 
5.15 mi
+1,037 ft
-2,726 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
Stage 3 of the 6-day route in the Cirque de Mafate.
On this stage, we’ll make our way from Marla to Roche Plate via the superb site of the 3 Roches. It is here that the Galets River disappears into an impressive crevasse.
The Roche Plate site is situated directly below the Maïdo viewpoint.
La Fenêtre des Makes at Camp 2000
Visorando Member 
5.77 mi
+2,221 ft
-2,208 ft
4h 35
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Louis (La Réunion) (Réunion)
An easy hike starting from a charming village offering magnificent views of the Cirque de Cilaos.
Fenêtre des Makes Piton Cabri
Visorando Member 
3.57 mi
+1,640 ft
-1,673 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Louis (La Réunion) (Réunion)
A lovely hike starting from Fenêtre des Makes which, in addition to magnificent views of Cilaos, allows you to discover completely different vegetation depending on the altitude.
Le Dimitile via the Sentier de la Chapelle trail
Visorando Member 5.86 mi
+2,546 ft
-2,546 ft
4h 55
Moderate
Departure from L'Entre-Deux (Réunion)
Dimitile is known for its many hiking trails. The shortest and easiest route to the summit is via the Sentier de la Chapelle trail. This hike offers magnificent views of the south of the island and then the Cirque de Cilaos at the end of the climb. It allows you to encounter some endemic plants and see various types of vegetation. It also provides a historical perspective on slavery with the character of Dimitile and the current Camp Marron.
The Bras Patate valley
Visorando Member 2.76 mi
+722 ft
-735 ft
1h 55
Easy
Departure from Saint-Louis (La Réunion) (Réunion)
The Makes region offers a wealth of hiking opportunities. The Bras Patate valley trail is one of the easiest and best known. The trail winds its way through a magnificent valley, offering superb views of Cilaos. Bras Patate was the entrance to the Cirque de Cilaos before the Piton des Neiges collapsed. However, the water did not have time to carve out a deep canyon like the Bras de Cilaos, but be sure to bring your camera: you will see many endemic birds.
From Camp Montplaisir to La Fenêtre via Les Fleurs Jaunes
Visorando Member 
3.70 mi
+1,273 ft
-1,296 ft
2h 50
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Louis (La Réunion) (Réunion)
This hike offers beautiful panoramic views of Cilaos! On the way back, we pass through the magnificent Bras Patate valley.
La Nouvelle - Le Bélier
Visorando Member 4.09 mi
+1,926 ft
-1,227 ft
3h 35
Moderate
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
The final stage of the Mafate circular loop.
From Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle
Tourist office 
7.02 mi
+2,087 ft
-2,073 ft
5h 05
Moderate
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
The hike from Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle offers an accessible route for exploring the Cirque de Mafate. This excursion can be done in one day or over two days if you book a lodge. It allows you to discover the Plaine des Tamarins, the small hamlets of La Nouvelle (considered the capital of Mafate) and Marla.
Grand Bassin and the Voile de la Mariée
Visorando Member 5.25 mi
+3,310 ft
-3,307 ft
5h 20
Difficult
Departure from Le Tampon (Réunion)
A beautiful hike offering stunning views of Grand Bassin in a superb setting. It begins with a 750m descent, which you then have to climb back up!
From Grand Bassin, a detour to the Voile de la Mariée waterfall and its pool is a must (swimming, picnic, etc.).
N.B. The displayed elevation gain of 1,340 metres is overestimated; the actual elevation gain is around 800 metres.
Circular route in the Terre Plate Forest from Hell-Bourg
Visorando Member 
3.53 mi
+1,663 ft
-1,640 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
A fairly technical circular route starting from the Creole village of Hell-Bourg in the Terre Plate Forest, offering beautiful panoramic views of the stunning Cirque de Salazie.
Le Bras Long
Visorando Member 
1.53 mi
+374 ft
-374 ft
30 mins
Easy
Departure from L'Entre-Deux (Réunion)
Located on the heights of the Entre-Deux, this short mountain bike ride follows the Bras Long, passing by the eponymous picnic area which is very popular at weekends. It allows you to discover a little-known part of the Dimitile whilst riding between the Crête du Bras Long and the Zèbre.
Le Bélier - Aurére
Visorando Member 
5.08 mi
+1,063 ft
-3,458 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
First stage in the Cirque de Mafate.
Hell-Bourg – Caverne Dufour
Visorando Member 
7.39 mi
+5,259 ft
-266 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
You reach the most legendary point of the Tour des Trois Cirques as you approach Piton des Neiges. The prettiest path, even if it is longer, goes through the Bélouve Forest with its splendid view of Piton des Neiges and its mountainous surroundings, and the primeval forest with its twisted trees and wild vegetation. As you arrive at the Caverne Dufour, there is a magnificent view of the Fournaise volcano and the other craters.
The Trou de Fer from Hell-Bourg and a circular tour through the Belouve Forest
Visorando Member 
12.09 mi
+3,133 ft
-3,136 ft
8h 15
Difficult
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
A lovely hike starting from the magnificent village of Hell-Bourg to reach the impressive Trou de Fer site, and a circular route to explore the Bélouve Primeval Forest.
From Tapage to La Fenêtre
Visorando Member 
7.42 mi
+3,123 ft
-3,117 ft
6h 10
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Louis (La Réunion) (Réunion)
This hike takes you to Les Makes (at the La Fenêtre viewpoint) via a rarely visited spot: Le Tapage. This route offers magnificent views of the Cirque de Cilaos and the south of the island. On the way back, we take a detour through the beautiful Bras Patate valley.
From Hell-Bourg to Bélouve
Visorando Member 3.32 mi
+1,791 ft
-1,795 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
The Cirque de Salazie is renowned for its hikes. The one linking Hell-Bourg to Bélouve is a classic. It climbs along a rampart for about 500 m of elevation gain. The climb is often winding and rarely difficult, although the slope is present almost all the way. Much of the hike is in the undergrowth. However, this climb offers sumptuous views of the entire cirque, with the final viewpoint at the lodge providing a spectacular finale.
Hell Bourg and the Three Waterfalls
Visorando Member 
3.94 mi
+1,089 ft
-1,093 ft
2h 45
Moderate
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
The village of Hell Bourg is one of the most beautiful on the island. Many tourists come especially to see the beautiful Creole houses and their guétali. The village has numerous museums and offers a wide range of accommodation options. This circular route takes you past the village's main attractions. It is suitable for families and the only difficulty is the return trip to the Three Waterfalls: the access is challenging, but short, and the site is enchanting.
Crossing the Bélouve and Bébour forests, starting from Hell-Bourg
Visorando Member 8.19 mi
+2,375 ft
-2,388 ft
5h 50
Difficult
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
Crossing the forests of Bébourg and BélouveHiking in Réunion: Closed trailsview the decree
Le Trou de Fer via the École Normale trail
Visorando Member 
6.70 mi
+709 ft
-715 ft
3h 40
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Benoît (La Réunion) (Réunion)
Trou de Fer is an iconic location on Reunion Island. Countless waterfalls plunge into this immense and impressive cavity. Located in the east of Reunion, it is one of the rainiest places on the island!It is accessible from Bras-Panon and from the Bélouve Forest. From this dense forest, there are three possible access routes: via the Trou de Fer trail, the Allée Cavalière or the École Normale trail.
Roche Plate - Marla
Visorando Member 
5.01 mi
+2,680 ft
-968 ft
4h 40
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
Second day of the hike in the Cirque de Mafate.
Bras Cabot botanical trail: arum circular
Visorando Member 0.82 mi
+30 ft
-26 ft
0h 25
Easy
Departure from Saint-Benoît (La Réunion) (Réunion)
If you have between half an hour and 45 minutes to spend in the magnificent Bébour Forest, especially with children, here is a very pretty walk that starts in undergrowth filled with arums (ideal in hot, humid weather) and continues in an enchanted forest atmosphere with lichen, twisted trees, etc. Absolutely no difficulty walking.
Le Trou de Fer via the Bélouve lodge and the Allée Cavalière trail
Visorando Member 
5.89 mi
+738 ft
-722 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Salazie (Réunion)
Le Trou de Fer is an iconic location on Reunion Island. Countless waterfalls plunge into this immense and impressive cavity. Located in the east of Reunion, it is one of the wettest places on the island! It can be reached from Bras-Panon and from the Bélouve forest. From this dense forest, there are three possible access routes: via the Trou de Fer trail, the bridle path or the École Normale trail.
Le Zèbre via the Sentier Marron from Bras Long and the Sentier Rosélie
Visorando Member 5.52 mi
+2,123 ft
-2,119 ft
4h 25
Difficult
Departure from L'Entre-Deux (Réunion)
L'Entre-Deux is a hiker’s paradise. This route follows the Sentier Rosélie and the Sentier du Zèbre. The latter is, in fact, one of the best-known trails in the region. You can complete a circular route by taking the Sentier Marron du Bras Long: it is very strenuous, quite demanding and technical, and is only recommended for very experienced walkers. This trail was little known before but is becoming increasingly popular. It also offers the chance to enjoy splendid panoramic views.
Le Grand Bénare from Le Maïdo
Visorando Member 
10.54 mi
+2,431 ft
-2,454 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
There are several notable peaks on Réunion. Two of them rise above 3,000 metres: Gros Morne and Piton des Neiges. The third is none other than Grand Bénare. The latter is accessible from several points. The routes via Le Grand Bord and La Glacière are the easiest. It is advisable to take the outward route via Le Grand Bord to enjoy the views over Mafate before the clouds roll in. The summit offers a 360-degree view, and the return via La Glacière adds a touch of history.
Maïdo and Grand Bord
Visorando Member 
2.60 mi
+541 ft
-554 ft
1h 40
Easy
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
This short hike along the Grand Bord du Maïdo offers the same superb views of Mafate as a longer hike.
The Petite Ravine Trail
Visorando Member 1.93 mi
+1,440 ft
-1,440 ft
2h 10
Moderate
Departure from L'Entre-Deux (Réunion)
There are several ways to reach the Bras de la Plaine. The route via the Sentier de la Petite Ravine is fairly well-known but rarely featured in guidebooks! This relatively short path leads right next to the beautiful Caverne de la Petite Ravine. If the opportunity arises, don’t hesitate to have a swim in the river or go and see the magnificent gorges downstream from the cave: do not attempt either of these if the water level is too high!
From Maïdo to Le Bronchard
Tourist office 
9.44 mi
+4,213 ft
-4,190 ft
6 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
The route to Mafate via Maïdo is one of the most challenging ways to reach Mafate. This fairly strenuous round trip allows you to see the charming village of Roche Plate and go beyond it to Le Bronchard, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. The village of Roche Plate is typical of the villages in Mafate with its Creole houses. It is quite spread out and consists of two neighbourhoods. There are numerous lodges in the area.
Le Grand Bénare via the Tamarin Lodge
Tourist office 
9.30 mi
+3,629 ft
-3,629 ft
7 hrs
Very difficult
Departure from Les Trois-Bassins (Réunion)
Le Grand Bénare is an iconic peak on the island. The approach via the Tamarin Lodge is much more strenuous than from Le Maïdo. You’ll need calves of steel to tackle the inevitable sharp rocks. The views are spectacular, and this is the case well before you reach the summit. The climb is steady and the elevation gain is quite significant. The route through the Caverne de la Glacière and the various shafts encountered during the ascent add an extra dimension to this hike.
Scout Trail starting from Grand Place
Visorando Member 
7.28 mi
+4,288 ft
-2,090 ft
7h 05
Difficult
Departure from La Possession (Réunion)
The famous Scout Trail, where the ridge sections offer impressive views of the Mafate cirque.
Cayenne - Roche Plate
Visorando Member 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.
Nez de Bœuf from Bourg-Murat
Visorando Member 
8.51 mi
+1,870 ft
-1,867 ft
5h 35
Moderate
Departure from Le Tampon (Réunion)
Nez de Bœuf is an iconic peak on the Route du Volcan. There is a magnificent viewpoint at its foot. However, the view from the summit is much better. This hike takes you there from the peaceful village of Bourg Murat, crossing rural landscapes with magnificent views. However, it is strongly recommended that you start at 7 a.m. at the latest to get the best views. Especially the one at the summit, which will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Piton des Orangers and return via the Omega Forest Road
Visorando Member 4.61 mi
+932 ft
-906 ft
2h 55
Easy
Departure from Saint-Paul (La Réunion) (Réunion)
An easy hike to see all the islets of the Cirque de Mafate. It is best to set off no later than 10:00 a.m. to enjoy the magnificent views along the edge of the rampart. The start and end of the route are on forest roads. It is possible to picnic along these roads on the way back.
More walks in Cilaos
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