Discover Cirque de Mafate: The Wild Heart of Réunion Island

No roads lead here. Only narrow footpaths trace the rugged cliffs, and the only sounds are wind through the trees and the distant rush of waterfalls. Welcome to the Cirque de Mafate, the most remote and mysterious of Réunion Island’s three volcanic cirques, a place where adventure begins with every step.

Shaped by the ancient collapse of the Piton des Neiges volcano, Mafate is accessible only on foot or by helicopter. It’s a true wilderness, dotted with tiny hamlets, dramatic peaks, and green valleys. Here, time slows down, and every path feels like a journey into another world. For hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking off-grid serenity, Mafate is a paradise of raw beauty.

Outdoor Activities in Cirque de Mafate

Wondering what to do in Cirque de Mafate? The answer lies in its trails. With no cars, no crowds, and no concrete, this is one of the most authentic hiking experiences in the Indian Ocean.

Hiking from Ilet to Ilet

Mafate is a dream for trekkers. Over 140 kilometres of marked trails criss-cross the cirque, linking isolated settlements known as îlets. Each one, such as La Nouvelle, Marla, Aurère, or Roche Plate, offers basic lodging and a warm welcome.

Popular routes include:

• Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle: The classic entry point, with sweeping views and a relatively gentle descent.
• Marla to Roche Plate via Trois Roches: A longer, more rugged hike across volcanic plateaus and lush ravines.
• Grand Place loop: For those wanting a wilder, less-travelled path, this area is steep but spectacular.

You can plan a multi-day trek between villages, sleeping in gîtes (mountain guesthouses) and enjoying Creole meals in the evenings. There’s a strong sense of community here, and sharing stories with fellow hikers is part of the experience.

Trail Running and Ultra-Endurance

Mafate is also the mythical heart of Réunion’s trail running culture. It’s a key section of the legendary Grand Raid (Diagonale des Fous), one of the world’s toughest ultramarathons. If you’re into trail running, the challenging terrain, high passes, and technical descents make for a dream training ground, just be sure you’re well-prepared and respect the conditions.

Stargazing and Quiet Moments

With no light pollution and very limited infrastructure, Mafate offers incredible stargazing. On clear nights, the Milky Way glows above the peaks. After a day of walking, there’s nothing quite like lying back outside your lodge and watching the sky unfold.

Local Tips

• Pack light but well. You'll be carrying everything on your back, so choose gear wisely: breathable clothes, a warm layer, rain protection, and sturdy hiking shoes.
• Bring cash. There are no ATMs in Mafate, and most gîtes only accept cash.
• Respect local life. These are living villages, not just tourist stops. Be mindful of noise, litter, and local customs.
• Start early. Morning light is magical, and clouds often gather by midday.
• Carry a map or GPS. Although trails are marked, forks and ravines can be confusing in fog or rain.

Best Time to Visit Cirque de Mafate

The best time to hike in Mafate is during the dry season, from May to November. The weather is cooler and more stable, with less risk of cyclones or heavy rains that can make trails slippery or dangerous.

The wet season (December to April) brings dramatic waterfalls and lush growth, but also heat, humidity, and the risk of trail closures due to landslides or floods. If visiting in this period, check with local sources before setting off.

Nights can be chilly year-round, especially in higher îlets like Marla, so pack accordingly.

How to Get to Cirque de Mafate

There’s no road access into Mafate, and that’s part of its charm.

To enter on foot, the most common access points are:

• Col des Bœufs: Reached by car from Salazie, this pass offers the easiest and most popular route into La Nouvelle.
• Rivière des Galets: From Le Port on the west coast, you can start walking or take a 4x4 shuttle up the rocky riverbed to Deux Bras, then hike up to Aurère or Îlet à Malheur.
• Maïdo: This dramatic viewpoint above Mafate offers steep, spectacular descents into the cirque, such as the trail to Roche Plate or La Brèche.

For those short on time or seeking a unique perspective, helicopter transfers are possible, mostly used for supplies and emergencies, but some operators offer scenic flights or drop-offs with prior arrangement.

Cirque de Mafate isn’t just a destination, it’s an immersion. A place where the silence is deep, the paths are wild, and the connection to nature is profound. Whether you spend a single night or roam for days, Mafate stays with you, in your legs, your lungs, and your memory.