The Most Stunning Trails in Mauritius Begin with the Essence of the Mascarenes
The Most Beautiful Hikes in Reunion Island often bring to mind stunning coastal trails and lush landscapes, but just next door lies the island of Réunion—a hidden gem for nature and hiking enthusiasts. As a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean and part of the Mascarene archipelago, Réunion boasts a vibrant blend of African, Asian, and European cultures, creating a warm and diverse atmosphere.
More than just a tropical escape, Réunion is an island of striking contrasts shaped by volcanic forces and dramatic terrain. It’s divided into seven unique regions, each with its own character—from the peaceful east coast to the breathtaking cirques, from sunlit beaches to the powerful presence of an active volcano. Every part of the island offers an invitation to explore and experience something truly authentic.
An Island Carved by Time and Nature
Hiking in Réunion feels like stepping into a living painting. The island’s rugged terrain is a maze of deep valleys, towering cliffs, lush forests, rivers, waterfalls, and ancient lava flows. In 2010, UNESCO recognized this unique geography—its “pitons, cirques, and ramparts”—as a World Heritage Site due to its outstanding natural beauty and biodiversity.
Whether you’re walking along the edge of the turquoise lagoon or ascending into the emerald folds of the mountains, every step is a discovery. The colors here are intense: crystal blue, vibrant green, volcanic red, and golden sunlight all meet in dramatic contrast.
The Most Beautiful Hikes in Reunion Island May Just Lead You Here
While Mauritius is famous for its postcard-perfect coastlines, Réunion offers a different kind of wonder. With over 900 kilometers of marked trails and three official long-distance hiking routes, this island is a dream come true for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a gentle family stroll or a challenging mountain climb, Réunion has it all.
Stand at the edge of Trou de Fer, a staggering 1,000-meter-deep canyon, and watch as multiple waterfalls pour down into the abyss, creating silver threads across the cliffs. Trek across the vast, moonlike crater of the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and feel like you’ve landed on another planet. Gaze out from the heights of Piton Maïdo, stretching past the majestic Piton des Neiges and the jagged ridges of Trois Salazes.
Cirques Full of Secrets and Soul
Réunion’s iconic cirques—Salazie, Cilaos, and Mafate—are massive natural amphitheaters carved into the heart of the island. Each is unique and filled with hidden villages, footpaths, and viewpoints. Mafate, accessible only on foot or by helicopter, is especially beloved by hikers seeking isolation and wonder. These wild landscapes form part of the Réunion National Park, where trails wind through untouched nature, inviting you to lose track of time.
Time to Lace Up Your Boots
There’s no better way to understand Réunion than by walking it. With every trail, the island reveals a little more of its magic. It’s a place where you can breathe deeper, move slower, and feel truly alive.
Piton de la Fournaise Trail – Hike Through Fire and Time
So if you’re looking beyond the beach, if you’re craving adventure, and if The Most Beautiful Hikes im Reunion Island are on your list—don’t miss the chance to discover Réunion, where the mountains meet the sky and the trails lead to unforgettable memories.
Trekking the Piton de la Fournaise Trail is not just a hike—it’s a journey across one of Earth’s most powerful natural phenomena. Situated on Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean, this trail leads you to the rim of one of the world’s most active volcanoes. From the moment you set foot on the path at Pas de Bellecombe, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world. The terrain is stark and mesmerizing, with wide expanses of solidified lava that resemble a giant, cracked desert of black stone. The landscape feels almost lunar—alien, dramatic, and humbling.
As you climb higher, you’ll encounter vast lava flows, jagged ridges, smoking vents, and enormous craters that bear the mark of countless past eruptions. It’s a vivid display of geology in motion. With every step, the air becomes thinner and the views more expansive. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the island’s lush eastern coast, contrasting sharply with the volcanic wasteland beneath your feet.
Though this trail is physically demanding, it offers a unique chance to walk along the spine of an active volcano, where the forces that shape our planet are exposed and alive. The experience is both thrilling and meditative—an unforgettable encounter with the raw power of nature.
Trail Details:
- Distance: Approximately 12 kilometers (round trip)
- Estimated Duration: 5 to 6 hours, depending on pace and weather
- Difficulty Level: Difficult – best suited for experienced hikers
- Trail Type: Out and back
- Starting Point: Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint and parking area, reachable via Route Forestière 5 from Bourg-Murat (about 1-hour drive)
Trail Highlights:
- Traverse a dramatic volcanic plateau marked by frozen lava rivers, mineral-rich crusts, and surreal rock formations
- Peer into the massive Formica Leo crater early in the hike
- Witness steam vents and sulfur-streaked fissures that hint at the volcano’s continuing activity
- Reach the caldera rim for a jaw-dropping view of Dolomieu Crater, the primary eruptive vent of Piton de la Fournaise
- Unmatched photo opportunities and a tangible sense of walking across the Earth’s fiery core
Important Tips:
- Start early in the morning to avoid cloud cover, which often rolls in by midday
- Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and layered clothing—temperatures can change quickly
- Check eruption alerts and trail conditions before hiking, as access may be restricted during periods of volcanic activity
- Due to the harsh terrain, sturdy footwear is essential
The Piton de la Fournaise Trail is more than just a hike—it’s an encounter with a living volcano, a chance to stand on the edge of the Earth’s power and witness landscapes that seem pulled from the pages of science fiction. For adventurous souls and geology lovers, it’s an absolute must-do while exploring Réunion Island.
Mafate Cirque Trail: A Journey into Réunion’s Untamed Heart
Hidden deep within the wild volcanic heart of Réunion Island lies the Mafate Cirque Trail, a spectacular trekking route that offers intrepid hikers an unmatched experience of nature, culture, and solitude. This trail leads adventurers into the legendary Cirque de Mafate, a caldera formed by millennia of volcanic activity, now sculpted into a rugged paradise of dramatic cliffs, emerald forests, and remote Creole villages.
Accessible only on foot or by helicopter, Mafate is a land without roads, untouched by cars or buses. The only way in—and out—is by hiking, which gives the trail an almost mythical allure. As you venture into this isolated region, the modern world quickly fades behind you, replaced by the soothing sounds of rustling foliage, birdsong, and the rush of hidden waterfalls. It’s not just a hike—it’s an immersion into a preserved ecosystem and a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Exploring the Wild Soul of Réunion
The path weaves through thick, tropical vegetation and crosses narrow ridgelines that offer breathtaking, 360-degree views of towering peaks and steep ravines. Dense forests of tamarind, acacia, and endemic flora line the trail, often opening suddenly to reveal expansive plateaus and the colorful rooftops of tiny hamlets tucked into the mountainsides. These villages—such as La Nouvelle, Marla, and Roche Plate—are home to a resilient community of Creole families who live in harmony with nature and still carry on ancestral traditions.
Hiking through Mafate is as much a cultural journey as a physical challenge. You’ll encounter rustic mountain cabins (gîtes) where you can spend the night and savor local dishes such as cari poulet and lentils from Cilaos, often prepared with ingredients grown nearby. Conversations with locals, many of whom are descendants of early island settlers, offer unique insight into Réunion’s multicultural history and self-sufficient lifestyle.
Because there is no motorized access, everything in Mafate must be transported by foot or helicopter—including supplies for the villages. This remoteness fosters a deep sense of peace and stillness. With no traffic noise or urban distractions, time seems to move slower here, inviting hikers to reflect, reconnect with themselves, and find joy in the simplicity of walking.
Whether you choose a short loop or embark on a multi-day trek, the Mafate Cirque Trail rewards every step with awe-inspiring scenery and a deepening connection to the raw beauty of the island. Steep ascents, river crossings, and shifting weather patterns make this a trail for the moderately experienced to seasoned hiker, but the rewards are unforgettable. This is a place where nature reigns supreme, and each bend in the path reveals a new wonder.
Trail Details:
- Length: Varies depending on route; multiple itineraries range from half-day excursions to 3-day circuits
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (steep ascents/descents, remote conditions)
- Duration: 1–3 days or more, depending on pace and route
- Trail Type: Primarily looped and interconnected paths
- Starting Point: Most routes begin at the Col des Bœufs parking area, reachable by car via Route D48 from Salazie (approximately 2 hours’ drive from Saint-Denis)
Trail Highlights:
Whether you’re an avid trekker in search of solitude or a nature lover eager to discover one of the Indian Ocean’s best-kept secrets, the Mafate Cirque Trail delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure, serenity, and authenticity. It’s more than a hike—it’s a pilgrimage into the soul of Réunion.
Cirque de Cilaos Trail – A Hiker’s Passage Through Time and Terrain
Tucked away in the volcanic highlands of Réunion Island, the Cirque de Cilaos Trail offers more than just a hike—it’s an immersive exploration of nature’s grandeur, geological wonder, and Creole culture. This breathtaking trail winds through one of the island’s most iconic natural amphitheaters, where towering basalt walls encircle verdant valleys like ancient guardians of the past.
From your very first steps on the trail, the outside world fades away. You are drawn into a land sculpted by millions of years of volcanic activity, where craggy ridgelines rise like sleeping dragons and deep ravines whisper tales of flowing lava and seasonal floods. The route is an ever-changing panorama: sun-dappled forests of tamarind and acacia give way to highland scrub, wild orchids peeking through mossy outcrops, and sweeping views that stretch into the blue mist of the Indian Ocean.
The village of Cilaos, your starting point, feels like something from a dream—an alpine-style town with colorful Creole houses, red geraniums spilling from windowsills, and the scent of freshly baked cassava bread wafting through the air. Perched at 1,200 meters above sea level, this highland haven is accessed via the legendary “Route aux 400 virages,” a serpentine road carved into cliffs that winds through tunnels and dramatic drops. The journey to the trailhead is an adventure in itself.
One of The Most Beautiful Hikes in Reunion Island
Once on the path, every turn delivers something new: cascading waterfalls plummeting into shadowy gorges, natural stone arches shaped by wind and time, and sudden, quiet meadows blanketed in wildflowers. You may pass herds of goats grazing freely on sunlit slopes or spot white-tailed tropicbirds soaring high above in thermals. The trail is alive with life, color, and contrast.
What sets this trail apart is not only its natural spectacle, but its intimate connection to the island’s soul. Scattered along the route are small hamlets where life unfolds at a gentler pace. In these villages, traditional crafts still thrive—you might meet an elder hand-stitching Cilaos’s famed embroidery or be invited into a family-run café to try a bowl of lentils grown in the surrounding fields. Local hospitality is heartfelt, and the stories shared over a glass of punch or vanilla-infused tea often linger longer than the vistas themselves.
Another surprise awaits along the way: the presence of natural hot springs. These thermal waters, born from the island’s tumultuous volcanic origins, offer weary hikers a chance to relax and recharge. Soaking in a warm pool surrounded by jagged peaks and forested slopes is a reward unlike any other.
The Cirque de Cilaos Trail caters to those in search of authenticity, challenge, and wonder. While the physical effort required is real—with steep ascents, loose stones, and narrow ridges—it is met with profound spiritual and emotional rewards. The rhythm of your footsteps becomes a meditation, your breath in sync with the pulse of the land.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker looking to conquer new terrain or a curious traveler yearning for connection with nature and culture, this trail delivers an unforgettable experience.
Trail Details:
- Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers round trip, allowing for immersive exploration without requiring an overnight stay.
- Difficulty: Moderate. Ideal for hikers in good condition who enjoy varied terrain and are comfortable with occasional elevation gains.
- Duration: Plan for 4 to 5 hours of hiking, though lingering at scenic overlooks or village stops may extend your time.
- Route Type: Out and back, with ample opportunities to customize your route with detours to nearby waterfalls or lookout points.
- Starting Point: Village of Cilaos, accessible via the scenic Route D241 from Saint-Louis—famous for its dizzying switchbacks and jaw-dropping views.
Highlights Along the Way:
- Panoramic canyon vistas framed by rugged cliffs and emerald vegetation
- Lush tropical and subalpine flora unique to Réunion’s microclimates
- Rare endemic plants and glimpses of native birds in flight
- Striking volcanic rock formations, testament to the island’s fiery past
- Thundering waterfalls cascading into hidden pools
- Authentic Creole villages known for embroidery, homemade delicacies, and thermal baths
The Cirque de Cilaos Trail is more than a path—it’s a passage through geological time, cultural richness, and natural splendor. It invites each traveler to slow down, take notice, and reconnect with the elemental forces that shaped both the land and the people who call it home.
In every footstep, you’ll find a story. In every view, a sense of awe. And by the end of your journey, you may find that it’s not just the trail that leaves its mark on you—but that you leave a piece of yourself on this unforgettable slice of paradise.
Grand Bassin Trail: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Réunion
Tucked away within the highland plateaus of Réunion Island, the Grand Bassin Trail invites hikers to embark on a truly immersive experience in one of the island’s most breathtaking and lesser-known valleys. Often nicknamed the «Little Mafate» due to its remote setting and dramatic landscape, this trail offers a rewarding descent into a lush green haven, where nature flourishes undisturbed.
Starting from the scenic Bois Court lookout—perched at the edge of a steep escarpment—the journey begins with sweeping views over the Grand Bassin Valley below. From here, the trail meanders down into a hidden world carved by centuries of volcanic activity and softened by tropical vegetation. The descent is a gentle yet steady trek that winds through open ridgelines and narrow forest trails, each bend unveiling new perspectives of the valley’s grandeur.
Grand Bassin – A Secret Treasure in the Heart of Réunion
As hikers make their way downward, they are enveloped in the sounds of cascading water, rustling leaves, and birdsong. The landscape shifts dramatically from sunlit grassy plateaus to shaded groves filled with endemic plants and colorful blooms. Eventually, the trail leads to the crown jewel of the hike: the majestic Grand Bassin waterfall. This tall, graceful cascade tumbles into a pristine pool of turquoise water, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and a serene, jungle-like ambiance. It’s an ideal spot to pause, refresh, and take in the stillness of this natural sanctuary.
One of the trail’s most memorable features is the isolated village of Grand Bassin itself. Nestled deep within the valley and accessible only by foot, the village offers a rare glimpse into traditional Creole life. Here, time seems to move more slowly. Charming wooden houses with tin roofs, flower-filled gardens, and terraced fields form a peaceful tableau that reflects the island’s rural heritage. The locals—descendants of settlers who chose to live in harmony with the land—are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to nature.
The hike back is a bit more demanding, with a steady uphill climb, but it rewards trekkers with incredible views looking back across the basin and the satisfaction of having explored one of Réunion’s most enchanting landscapes.
Trail Overview:
- Total Distance: Approximately 6 kilometers (round trip)
- Estimated Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on pace and stops
- Difficulty Level: Moderate — suitable for reasonably fit hikers
- Trail Type: Out and back
- Starting Point: Bois Court lookout, reached via Route RN3 from Plaine des Cafres (about 45 minutes by car)
Highlights Along the Trail:
- A panoramic descent with continuous views over the Grand Bassin valley
- The awe-inspiring Grand Bassin waterfall, ideal for photography and relaxation
- A mix of terrains, from airy ridges to dense rainforest corridors rich in biodiversity
- The remote village of Grand Bassin, a living example of Creole culture and traditional island life
- Opportunities to spot native birds, tropical plants, and volcanic rock formations
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure or a nature lover seeking tranquility and scenic beauty, the Grand Bassin Trail delivers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Réunion’s untamed interior.
Cap Noir Trail: A Scenic Window into the Heart of Réunion’s Wild Beauty
Tucked away in the northwestern highlands of Réunion Island, the Cap Noir Trail is a gem for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. Though relatively short in distance, this circular route offers an outsized reward in natural splendor. With every step, you’re treated to jaw-dropping panoramas of the Mafate Cirque—an immense volcanic amphitheater carved into the rugged landscape by time and erosion. From the very start, the trail entices hikers with wide-open views of towering peaks and deep, forested ravines.
The route begins with a gentle uphill path, winding through a patchwork of native flora that includes fragrant tamarind groves and delicate acacia trees. As the trail climbs, the terrain quickly becomes more dramatic. Soon you’re walking along narrow ridges perched above the vast, remote wilderness of Mafate, with vertiginous cliffs falling away on either side. The air is fresh and often filled with birdsong, and there’s a sense of solitude that feels almost otherworldly—especially in the early morning hours when mist still hugs the valleys.
A Breathtaking Gateway to Réunion’s Untamed Natural Splendor
Along the way, a number of lookout points provide perfect spots to pause, breathe in the mountain air, and capture incredible panoramic photos. These vistas stretch far into the interior of Réunion, revealing jagged volcanic spires, deep green valleys, and isolated creole villages that are accessible only by foot or helicopter.
As the trail loops back, the descent offers a change in perspective. You’ll encounter a variety of rock formations that reveal the island’s fiery geological origins—lava walls, basalt columns, and ancient ash layers folded into the cliffs. It’s an educational experience as much as a visual one, especially for those curious about volcanic activity and the island’s dramatic topography.
The Cap Noir Trail strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and adventure. It’s moderately challenging, with a few steep sections and narrow paths, but it doesn’t require technical climbing or special gear—just a good pair of hiking shoes and a sense of wonder.
Trail Summary:
- Distance: 4 kilometers (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
- Trail Type: Circular loop
- Starting Point: Cap Noir parking lot, accessible via Route D1 from La Possession (approx. 1 hour by car)
Trail Highlights:
- Awe-inspiring viewpoints over Mafate Cirque
- Lush tropical vegetation and native forests
- Impressive volcanic formations and ridgeline walks
- Ideal for sunrise hikes and nature photography
Insider Tip: Set out just after dawn for the most vivid lighting and unobstructed views—clouds often drift in by midday, cloaking the peaks in mist and reducing visibility. Bring water, a light snack, and your camera—you won’t want to miss a moment of this unforgettable hike.
Roche Vert Bouteille Trail – A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of Réunion
Tucked away in the dramatic highlands of Réunion Island, the Roche Vert Bouteille Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience for those looking to immerse themselves in pristine nature away from the crowds. This trail, still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, invites adventurers into a world of lush vegetation, misty mountain air, and dramatic vistas that seem lifted from a dream.
Beginning in the storybook village of Hell-Bourg—often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France—the trail leads hikers along a gently ascending path that meanders through a magical bamboo forest. As you climb higher, the scenery slowly transforms: moss-covered trees give way to fern-covered clearings, and before long, expansive ridges unveil themselves, revealing breathtaking views over the Salazie Cirque, a verdant amphitheater carved by centuries of volcanic activity.
The trail is dotted with surprises at every turn. Rocky outcrops covered in vibrant lichens provide the perfect vantage points for admiring waterfalls tumbling down the steep cliffs in the distance. The rustling of the forest canopy, the rhythmic tapping of endemic birds, and the occasional glimpse of a butterfly or chameleon remind you that you’re walking through one of the most ecologically rich regions in the Indian Ocean.
While not overly difficult, the trail offers just the right level of challenge to keep hikers engaged, with sections that require careful footing, especially after rainfall when the path can become slick. The reward, however, is solitude, serenity, and an intimate encounter with Réunion’s unspoiled wilderness. It’s an ideal option for nature lovers, photographers, and those yearning for a peaceful escape from the usual tourist routes.
Trail Details:
- Length: 8 kilometers (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Starting Point: Hell-Bourg, reachable via the scenic Route D48 from Salazie (approximately a 1.5-hour drive)
- Trail Highlights: Majestic panoramic viewpoints, endemic flora and fauna, unique volcanic rock formations, and immersive tranquility
Insider Tip:
Bring sturdy hiking poles and proper footwear—especially if hiking during or after rain—as some sections can be slippery and require balance. Also, don’t forget to pack a light jacket, as the temperature can drop quickly at higher altitudes.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply a lover of nature’s quiet wonders, the Roche Vert Bouteille Trail promises a rewarding adventure that showcases the raw beauty and rich biodiversity of Réunion Island.
Trois Roches Trail: An Immersive Journey into the Heart of Mafate
The Trois Roches Trail is a captivating hiking experience nestled deep within the majestic Mafate Cirque, a remote and rugged volcanic caldera on Réunion Island. This trail invites adventurers to embark on a scenic trek that culminates in the awe-inspiring Trois Roches waterfall, a true highlight of the region. Along the way, hikers are treated to a stunning tapestry of natural wonders, from crystal-clear rivers weaving through lush valleys to towering cliffs that frame the dramatic landscape.
Starting at the secluded hamlet of La Nouvelle, accessible only by helicopter or on foot from other parts of Mafate, the trail meanders through a diverse and ever-changing terrain. You’ll traverse soft grassy plateaus that contrast sharply with the jagged, rocky paths carved into the volcanic rock. Dense foliage surrounds you in parts, offering shade and the sweet scent of native flora. This rich variety of environments makes the hike as engaging as it is beautiful.
A Captivating Exploration at the Core of Mafate
The crown jewel of this trail is undoubtedly the Trois Roches waterfall. Here, the river cascades powerfully over enormous boulders, shaping a natural amphitheater where water crashes and swirls in a mesmerizing dance. This spot serves as a tranquil oasis, where visitors can pause to soak in the serene atmosphere, listen to the soothing rush of water, and perhaps snap some breathtaking photos. It’s a favorite destination not only for avid hikers but also for photographers and nature lovers drawn to its wild, untouched charm.
Along the route, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. The area is home to several endemic bird species whose songs punctuate the forest air, adding to the enchanting ambiance. The flora is equally vibrant, showcasing a rich palette of colors and textures that shift with the seasons. This blend of fauna and flora makes the trail feel like a living, breathing ecosystem.
Trail Information at a Glance:
- Distance: Approximately 14 kilometers round trip, offering a fulfilling half-day adventure.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate — suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness and some experience on uneven terrain.
- Estimated Duration: Around 6 to 7 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace and time to enjoy the natural pools and scenery.
- Trail Type: Out and back, starting and ending in La Nouvelle.
- Access Point: La Nouvelle, reachable only by helicopter or through connecting trails from other parts of Mafate, emphasizing the trail’s remote and pristine character.
What to Expect Along the Way:
The journey is punctuated by stunning river landscapes where clear waters flow over smooth stones and fallen leaves. You’ll encounter peaceful natural pools nestled along the trail — perfect spots for a refreshing dip, especially after a strenuous climb. However, caution is advised during the rainy season, as water levels can rise quickly, making currents stronger and potentially dangerous.
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the shifting light that plays on the water’s surface, the moss-covered rocks, and the towering cliffs that loom overhead. The diversity of the terrain means every step brings a new vista, from open skies over grassy knolls to shadowy, intimate forested sections.
Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the chance to cool off in the natural pools near the waterfall, but always check local conditions before swimming. The currents can be surprisingly strong after heavy rain, so safety comes first. Also, bringing a good pair of hiking shoes with strong grip is essential to navigate the rocky sections comfortably.
Whether you’re an avid trekker seeking adventure or a nature enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Réunion Island, the Trois Roches Trail offers an unforgettable journey. It’s a harmonious blend of challenging hiking, spectacular scenery, and moments of peaceful connection with the wilderness that few places can match.
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