Réunion Island offers a multitude of hiking trails, and it can sometimes be challenging to choose. Here is my selection of must-do and accessible hikes on this intense island.
1. Canalisation des orangers
The Canalisation des Orangers is an exceptional hike located on Réunion Island, allowing hikers to discover breathtaking panoramas of the cirque de Mafate.
Hike Details
- Starting Point: Sans Souci
- Ending Point: Îlet des Orangers
- Duration: 32 km (approximately 10 to 12 hours of walking)
- Difficulty: Considered challenging due to the total length. However, the trail is relatively flat, which makes the walking easier for a large part of the route.
Route
- Trailhead: The first hour of walking to reach the main trail can be quite demanding.
- Main Trail: Once on the canalization, the path is mostly flat, providing a pleasant hike with spectacular views.
- Approach to Îlet des Orangers: The last hour of walking before reaching the îlet presents difficulties again, particularly with more pronounced ascents and descents.
Practical Tips
- Accommodation: To fully enjoy this hike and avoid doing it in a single day, it is recommended to spend the night at Îlet des Orangers. You can choose to book a gîte or opt for camping.
- Reservation: Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Contact:
Pour obtenir des recommandations sur les gîtes ou des conseils supplémentaires, n'hésitez pas à me contacter via
Enjoy the hike and the exceptional landscapes offered by the Canalisation des Orangers!
2. Le Trou de Fer
The hike to Trou de Fer from the Bélouve gîte is a must-do adventure in Réunion Island, offering hikers an immersion in lush forest and spectacular views of one of the island's most impressive waterfalls.
Hike Details
- Starting Point: Bélouve gîte
- Ending Point: Trou de Fer viewpoint
- Duration: About 14 km round trip (5 to 6 hours of walking)
- Difficulty: Moderate, mainly due to some muddy and slippery sections.
Route
- Trailhead: The trail starts at the Bélouve gîte, quickly immersing hikers in a dense, humid forest typical of the region.
- Main Trail: The path winds through the forest, with sometimes muddy sections requiring a good pair of hiking shoes. Lush vegetation and birdsong accompany hikers throughout the route.
- Approach to the Viewpoint: As you approach Trou de Fer, the trail becomes steeper and can be slippery. However, the effort is rewarded with incredible views of Trou de Fer and its majestic waterfalls.
Practical Tips
- Accommodation: To facilitate access to the trailhead, it is recommended to spend the night at the Bélouve gîte. This allows you to start the hike early in the morning and make the most of the day.
- Equipment: Due to the humid conditions of the trail, it is recommended to wear waterproof hiking shoes. A walking stick can also be helpful for the muddy sections.
- Preparation: Check the weather conditions before you leave, as visibility at Trou de Fer can be significantly reduced in fog.
Contact:
Pour obtenir des recommandations des conseils supplémentaires, n'hésitez pas à me contacter via .
Enjoy this exceptional hike to Trou de Fer and the incredible natural beauty of Réunion Island!
3. Col des Bœufs à La Nouvelle
The hike from Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle is one of the most popular in Réunion Island, offering a spectacular immersion in the cirque de Mafate.
Hike Details
- Starting Point: Col des Bœufs parking lot
- Ending Point: Îlet de La Nouvelle
- Duration: About 10 km round trip (4 to 5 hours of walking)
- Difficulty: Moderate, with well-defined sections of ascent and descent.
Route
- Trailhead: The trail starts at the Col des Bœufs parking lot, accessible from the village of Salazie. The beginning of the hike is a gentle descent through a forest of cryptomerias.
- Main Trail: The path gradually descends into the bottom of the Mafate cirque, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trails are well-marked and maintained.
- Approach to La Nouvelle: The final part of the hike includes a gentle ascent to Îlet de La Nouvelle, one of the most accessible and inhabited îlets in Mafate. Hikers can discover traditional Creole houses and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Practical Tips
- Accommodation: For a more enriching experience, you can spend the night in La Nouvelle. You can book a gîte or opt for camping. This break allows you to fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of the cirque.
- Equipment: Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and snacks. A rain jacket is recommended, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Access: The parking lot at Col des Bœufs is limited in space, so it is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season.
Contact:
Pour obtenir des recommandations sur les gîtes ou des conseils supplémentaires, n'hésitez pas à me contacter via .
Enjoy this unforgettable hike from Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle and the breathtaking beauty of the Mafate cirque!