Hiking excursion in Reunion Island: Discovering the Upper Mafate
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationFrench Overseas Territories / Reunion Island
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AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions11.11 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
French
English
German
Italian
Spanish
In a few words
The price shown is per person for a group of 2 people. Prices decrease depending on the size of the group.
In the heart of wild Réunion Island , this immersive loop gently introduces you to the magic of the Mafate cirque , an isolated gem accessible only on foot. From the Col des Bœufs pass , after crossing the Salazie cirque and its waterfalls enveloped in greenery, the hike begins with a breathtaking panorama.
The route winds along iconic trails to the hamlet of La Nouvelle, before reaching the hamlet of Marla, where you'll enjoy a cozy night in a gîte ( rural guesthouse). The comfortable accommodation, nestled in nature, allows for total immersion in the peaceful and exotic atmosphere of Mafate, between rugged peaks and verdant valleys.
Designed to combine adventure and accessibility , this getaway is suitable for anyone in good physical condition who wants an authentic experience immersed in Réunion culture. Pick-up from the secure Col des Bœufs parking lot , with on-site security, ensures a smooth process from the moment you arrive.
A restorative and itinerant journey , to discover a world apart, ideal for a first discovery of the intense island via its trails.
The highlights
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A discovery of the Mafate cirque accessible to all hikers
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Stunning panoramic views of the Mafate and Salazie cirques, and the island's peaks.
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Guided by a professional local mountain guide
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
A classic way to discover Mafate in 2 days!
This loop offers an ideal immersion into the heart of the cirque, between iconic trails, authentic hamlets, and spectacular panoramas. A perfect format for a first experience in Mafate, with a level accessible to intermediate hikers.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 5h30
- Average distance/day: 10 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 200 m
- Average daily descent: 650 m
Management
French
English
German
Italian
Spanish
Qualified mountain guides, local professionals, experienced.
Program
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Col des Boeufs - Marla
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 7 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 600 m
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Starting from the Col des Bœufs parking area, high above the Cirque de Salazie , we enjoy the forest atmosphere of Salazie as we hike to the Col de Fourche via the GR R1 trail. From there, a breathtaking view awaits us, revealing the panorama of the Cirque de Mafate. A quick descent leads us to the magnificent Plaine des Tamarins , joining the GRR3 trail. After a break in the shade of its trees, we continue our descent towards the Rivière des Galets, to enjoy its cool waters. The trail then climbs back up to the hamlet of Marla , the highest hamlet in Mafate, where we will spend the night in a mountain refuge.
Day 1 -
Marla – La Nouvelle – Col des Bœufs
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 13 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Negative elevation 700 m
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, we descend the Galets River to the magnificent Trois Roches viewpoint , with its breathtaking view of the waterfall. We then climb back up towards the Plaine aux Sables before reaching La Nouvelle , the largest hamlet in Mafate, for lunch. We finish our hike by returning to the Col des Bœufs pass and then to our parking area.
Day 2
Note
The route can be done in reverse if you wish to return early or depart late.
It can also be shortened: a direct round trip, without going through La Nouvelle, or without going through Les 3 Roches, depending on your level and your desires!
Enhance your trip by booking this excursion. However, we do not recommend flying for such a short duration.
Accommodation
Comfortable family mountain cottages, a few dozen beds.
Access
Go to the starting point
Airport – Col des Bœufs car park: 1 hour 20 minutes by car.
Guarded parking at the Col des Boeufs, at the very top of the Cirque de Salazie.
Secure parking included.
Price details
The price includes
- Guided by the Mountain Leader from day 1 to day 2 inclusive.
- Overnight stay with half board (evening meal and breakfasts), in a gîte, in small dormitories.
- Vehicle storage
The price does not include
- Transfers other than those mentioned in the programs.
- Lunchtime picnics. Your tour guide will advise you on the best places to eat.
- Drinks other than those served with meals.
- Hiking equipment.
- Personal expenses.
- Transportation to the starting point
Options
- Foreign language guidance : CHF54.89 / reservation
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Walking poles available upon request
Equipment to bring
- a comfortable hiking backpack, 30 to 40 liters
- a compact microfiber towel
- a small piece of Marseille soap in its box, which can also be used for laundry
- a travel kit including a foldable toothbrush + mini tube of toothpaste.
- personal medical treatments
- a mobile phone
- A charger and cable(s), preferably with multiple USB ports. Charging is possible in isolated cabins, but outlets are sometimes scarce!
- A pair of walking poles is recommended. We can lend you some for your trek.
- Cash, credit cards, and checks are accepted for your expenses. Credit cards are not always accepted in remote areas.
No need to bring a sleeping bag , the guesthouses provide bedding.
Exception : The Dufour cave refuge, for the Piton des Neiges, only provides a blanket. A toilet sheet is highly recommended, as well as a small canvas bag to make a makeshift pillow.
Clothing to bring
On oneself:
- Mountain or trail shoes, preferably low and flexible.
- Good socks
- Hiking pants with optionally removable legs
- A long-sleeved hiking shirt or t-shirt is preferred.
- Headgear, glasses.
In the bag:
To walk
- A spare shirt
- One undergarment, possibly two.
- One pair of socks, possibly two.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket, preferably breathable.
For evening and nighttime comfort
- Underwear
- A warm and lightweight sweater, fleece or merino, which can also be useful for hiking.
- a comfortable thermal base layer (we recommend merino wool)
- tracksuit bottoms
- a pair of comfortable and warm socks
- a pair of lightweight sandals
- a small hat during the southern winter.
- a small pair of gloves during the southern winter.
- A down jacket, optional, during the southern winter for high altitudes (>1000m)
