Hiking the Piton de la Fournaise: how to prepare your climb to the crater in Réunion

The Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and one of the great symbols of Réunion. Since 1998 it has erupted on average every eight months, under constant monitoring by the Piton de la Fournaise Volcano Observatory. When the volcano is quiet, you can walk to the rim of its summit crater, the Dolomieu: an unforgettable hike in Réunion.

The starting point: Pas de Bellecombe

The hike begins at Pas de Bellecombe, at the end of the volcano road, after crossing the Plaine des Sables and its lunar landscapes. From the viewpoint, the view plunges into the Enclos Fouqué, the vast caldera at the bottom of which rises the cone of the Piton de la Fournaise.

A staircase leads down into the Enclos. The trail, waymarked with white marks painted on the lava, passes close to the small Formica Leo crater, then climbs over the lava flows to the edge of the Dolomieu.

How long should you allow?

Allow around 4 h 30 of walking for the return trip, not counting breaks, depending on your pace and the conditions. The hike is within reach of walkers in good physical shape, but the volcanic terrain is uneven and has no shade.

You will find all the practical details on the Piton de la Fournaise hike page.

Always set off early

In Réunion, clouds often rise over the Hauts (the island’s uplands) by late morning. At the volcano, leaving at dawn means a clear sky, superb light and milder temperatures for walking. Before you go, check the volcano weather.

Essential gear

• Good hiking boots: lava is sharp.
• At least two litres of water per person.
• Warm clothes and a windbreaker: it can be cold early in the morning, even in summer.
• Sun cream, a hat and sunglasses: at altitude, the sun is very strong.

Safety: check access to the Enclos

Access to the Enclos Fouqué may be restricted or closed by the prefecture, particularly during an eruption or when one is likely. Check the day before and on the day itself, stay on the waymarked trail and turn back if fog comes down.

The volcano should be explored with respect: in 2007, an exceptional eruption caused the Dolomieu crater to collapse by several hundred metres.

To understand how the island was formed and the history of the volcano, explore our Volcano page. And for a shorter, family-friendly version, the walk down to Formica Leo is already a wonderful experience.