Les Trois Salazes

Three rocky peaks rising above the hamlet of Bras-Sec, in the Cirque de Cilaos — a site as popular with climbers as with hikers in search of a panorama.

The route

The Trois Salazes are three rocky peaks lined up along the ridge separating the Cirque de Cilaos from the Cirque de Mafate, between the Gros Morne (3,019 m) and the Grand Bénare (2,898 m). The word “salaze” comes from Malagasy and means “stake” — a reference to the slender, vertical shape of these basalt needles.\n\nThe route begins with the climb to the Col du Taïbit from Cilaos (same start as for Marla), then heads along the ridge towards the peaks after about 2 h 15. The ridge passages are exposed and dizzying. The full traverse of the three peaks involves climbing sections and a zip line and is recommended only with a certified guide.\n\nThe view from the ridge line over both cirques is extraordinary. For hikers not equipped for climbing, the Col du Taïbit on its own or the ridge viewpoint remain accessible alternatives.