From Cayenne to Aurère

This hike requires a bit of planning (see the ‘Practical Information’ section).

(S) From Cayenne, head towards Deux-Bras, overlooking the Rivière des Galets. Ignore the path that climbs to the right towards Grand-Place, then take the one that descends to the river.

(1) Continue straight on until you reach the Bras d’Oussy footbridge.

(2) Carry on; after crossing the stream at the next junction, turn right towards Aurère, then stay on the path leading uphill. The final climb to Bord Bazar begins after a secured section along the cliff face, offering a breathtaking view of the Maïdo rampart and Piton Tortue.

(3) Take in the view. Carry on to the spring.

(4) The Source Bambou signals that the climb is almost over. You will then arrive at Bord Bazar.

(5) Take the first path, on the far left, which leads directly to Aurère, keeping to the left at all times. (E)

Access to the hike’s starting point

From Rivière des Galets, take a 4x4 (booking required) along the track towards Deux Bras for 25 minutes. A walk of around 2 hours is then required to reach the starting point.

At the end of this hike, there are four options for leavingAurère:

- Via the Rivière des Galets, walk to Deux-Bras in around 2 hours 30 minutes and continue on foot to the Rivière des Galets, or alternatively take a 4x4 (booking required) for a 25-minute journey.

- Via the Sentier Augustave, head towards Bord Martin by following the Bras Bemale ravine. Take care as there are slippery sections.

- Via the Sentier Scout between Ilet à Malheur and Ilet à Bourse, reach the Col des Bœufs road, with breathtaking views over vertiginous sections along the cliff face.

- Via Dos d’Âne – the Bras de Sainte-Suzanne trail: leave Mafate via Dos d’Âne. Cross the river, climb a technical path with handrails and ladders, then join the main road near the church at Dos d’Âne.

- Rivière des Galets
- Bras d’Oussy
- Viewpoint over the Maïdo rampart and Piton Tortue
- Source Bambou
- Bord Bazar