Plaine des Sables
A reddish-brown volcanic gravel plain on the way to the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, looking like the surface of Mars. It is the island's most surreal landscape.
The Plaine des Sables lies on the western side of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano at an altitude of about 2,250 metres. It is a plain of volcanic cinders and sand where almost nothing grows, and in sunlight its ochre and dark brown tones resemble the surface of Mars. The forest road RF5, which leads to the car park at Pas de Bellecombe near the crater, crosses the plain. The Pas des Sables viewpoint at the entrance offers a panoramic view. The road is unsealed, and ordinary cars can drive through slowly; the trip takes about 30 minutes. The light is best from 6 to 9 a.m. In the afternoon it is often foggy and the temperature can drop sharply, so bring a jacket. Roads may be closed during volcanic activity, so check the official prefectural notices before you set off.
Opening hours
Open all day (driving RF5 at night not recommended)
Nearby sights
- Piton de la Fournaise
- Cascade de Grand Galet
- Cité du Volcan
- Grand Bassin
- Grand Brûlé & Route des Laves
- Cap Méchant
- Jardin des Parfums et des Épices
- Anse des Cascades