Cirque de Mafate

A vast volcanic cirque with no road access, reached only on foot or by helicopter and dotted with small hamlets (ilets). It is the heart of hiking on Réunion.

Mafate is the most untouched of the three cirques, enclosed by cliffs rising more than a thousand metres and without a single road. Supplies are flown in by helicopter. About 700 residents live scattered across more than ten ilets, or hillside hamlets, including Marla, Roche Plate and Les Lataniers. In the 19th century the cirque was a refuge for escaped slaves. Visitors can only enter on foot. The GR R1 and GR R2 long-distance trails that circle the island both cross it. Common entry points include: from the Col des Bœufs near Salazie, about 2 hours on foot to Marla; up the riverbed from the west coast along the Rivière des Galets; or down the steep path from the Maïdo viewpoint. Family-run guesthouses (gîtes) in the hamlets offer beds and creole dinners. Book in advance through the Réunion tourism office or directly with the guesthouse. A typical hike takes 2 to 4 days. If you are not hiking, you can admire the whole cirque from the Maïdo viewpoint or take a helicopter sightseeing flight (about 45 minutes to see all three cirques and the volcano). Before entering, pack plenty of food, water and rain gear, and bring cash. The weather is changeable and fog often arrives in the afternoon, so make sure you reach your accommodation before dark.

Cirque de Mafate

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Places to eat nearby