For fit, keen walkers
100% hiking
Mafate, the Piton des Neiges, the volcano: the hikes that made the island’s name. A good level of fitness is essential.
6 days Moderate to difficult
Day 1
Warming up in the North
Varied trails above La Possession.
Hike · Easy · 3h
Cap Noir
A viewpoint over the Cirque de Mafate.
Hike · Moderate · 2h30
Roche Vert Bouteille
A loop to combine with Cap Noir.
Day 2
Mafate via the Col des Bœufs
Walking into the only cirque with no road.
Hike · Easy · 3h
Col des Bœufs → La Nouvelle
As far as the îlet (hamlet) of La Nouvelle; a night in a gîte booked in advance.
Day 3
Mafate via the Maïdo
The dizzying rampart (cliff wall) above the cirque.
Hike · Moderate · 2h30 to 3h30
Maïdo → Mafate
A descent into the cirque from the Maïdo viewpoint.
Day 4
The Piton des Neiges
The roof of the Indian Ocean, at 3,070 m.
Hike · Difficult · 6h30
Le Piton des Neiges
Climb to the gîte, then reach the summit before dawn for sunrise.
It often freezes at the summit in the southern winter: head torch, gloves and warm layers.
Day 5
The Piton de la Fournaise
Walking on one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
Hike · Moderate · 4h30
Piton de la Fournaise
From the Pas de Bellecombe to the rim of the Dolomieu crater.
The trail may be closed depending on volcanic activity: check the day before.
Day 6
Grand Bassin
The “lost village” at the bottom of its valley.
Hike · Moderate · 4h
Grand Bassin
A steep descent to the village and its waterfalls; the climb back up has to be earned.
Along the way
Where to eat
Along the way
Where to stay
The official app
All of Nout Péi, in your pocket
The website opens the doors. The app comes with you out in the field: map, guides, routes, and Quiz Péi, available only in the app.
- Quiz PéiDaily challenge, duels and leaderboard
- Scan PéiIdentify what you discover
- Interactive mapEvery place in your pocket
- In-depth guidesHistory, trails, local favourites
