Cirque de Mafate
A remote volcanic caldera accessible only by hiking or helicopter, offering stunning landscapes and unique isolated villages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, cooler temps
Cirque de Mafate
Best Time
Clearer skies, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote volcanic caldera accessible only by hiking or helicopter, offering stunning landscapes and unique isolated villages.
"Mafate valley basin: spend countless hours away from civilization in this personal Garden of Eden."
Start Hikes Early ☀️
Beat the heat and potential clouds. Aim to start your treks as early as possible for the best views and comfort.
Pack Light, Hike Smart 🎒
Only bring essentials. You'll be carrying everything, so prioritize water, snacks, and sun protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
La Nouvelle Village
Mafate
A charming, inhabited 'îlet' offering a glimpse into Mafate's unique way of life. Accessible via scenic trails.
Piton Maïdo Viewpoint
Overlooking Mafate
Spectacular panoramic views of the entire Mafate caldera, especially stunning at sunrise.
Col des Bœufs Trail
Mafate Access Point
A popular and relatively accessible trail leading into Mafate, offering rewarding vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike: Access is Key
Weather Watch: Clouds and Sun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start Hikes Early ☀️
Beat the heat and potential clouds. Aim to start your treks as early as possible for the best views and comfort.
Pack Light, Hike Smart 🎒
Only bring essentials. You'll be carrying everything, so prioritize water, snacks, and sun protection.
Helicopter Views 🚁
For a unique perspective or if hiking isn't feasible, consider a helicopter tour. 
Respect Local Life 🏡
Mafate is home to residents. Be mindful of their privacy and way of life.
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Hikes Early ☀️
Beat the heat and potential clouds. Aim to start your treks as early as possible for the best views and comfort.
Pack Light, Hike Smart 🎒
Only bring essentials. You'll be carrying everything, so prioritize water, snacks, and sun protection.
Helicopter Views 🚁
For a unique perspective or if hiking isn't feasible, consider a helicopter tour.
Respect Local Life 🏡
Mafate is home to residents. Be mindful of their privacy and way of life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cirque de Mafate for its breathtaking, untouched natural beauty and the unique, remote lifestyle of its inhabitants. The challenging hikes are rewarding, offering a true escape from civilization. However, the remoteness means limited amenities, and the weather can be unpredictable.
"Réunion is my personal Garden of Eden. Among the countless highlights of the island one stands out even more: the Mafate valley basin. Given some luck with the weather you can spend countless hours or even several days completely away from civilization. The only minor disruption is the occasional helicopter flight. Otherwise in certain areas and at certain times you literally encounter no one.
When you do come across human settlements, especially La Nouvelle, they appear almost like a Fata Morgana.
The standard routes from Col de Boeuf to Marla to La Nouvelle (to be completed within 7 to 8 hours) are technically not difficult and the paths are never exposed. Some fitness helps, but it’s pure enjoyment hiking! Start as early as possible even in the “dry season” as the first significant clouds start forming around 10 a.m."
Martin K.
"Probably our favourite cirque because:
1. the road is the least nightmarish of the three
2. the lookout point (Le Maido) is spectacular, and one actually get a feeling of the scope and vastness of a cirque
3. you can clearly see the highest peak of Reunion from here.
4. you can grab a bite to eat or a cold one at the on site shop."
Mel Klos
"Unique"
Pascal Parassouramin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Cirque de Mafate is exclusively by hiking trails or helicopter. There are no roads. Popular starting points for hikes include Col des Bœufs and Dos d'Ane. Helicopter services are available for transport and aerial work.
Key access points for hiking into Mafate include the Col des Bœufs trail, which leads to La Nouvelle, and trails from Dos d'Ane. These offer different routes and experiences within the cirque.
Yes, it's possible to reach Mafate via helicopter. This is often used for transport of goods and people, and offers a unique aerial perspective of the cirque.
Hiking times vary greatly depending on the chosen route and your fitness level. For example, the descent from Col des Bœufs to La Nouvelle can take 1 to 1.5 hours, but the return climb is longer.
No, there are absolutely no roads within Cirque de Mafate. It is a protected natural area accessible only by foot or helicopter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance tickets required for Cirque de Mafate itself, as it's a natural park. However, you may incur costs for helicopter transport or any accommodation/food you book within the 'îlets'.
Cirque de Mafate is a natural park and is accessible at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Generally, there are no fees for using the hiking trails within Cirque de Mafate. These are public paths maintained by the local authorities.
Helicopter prices vary significantly based on the operator, destination within Mafate, and type of service (e.g., transport, scenic tour). It's best to contact local operators like Helilagon for current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book accommodation in the 'îlets' (villages) of Mafate well in advance, especially during peak seasons, as options are limited.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is through hiking, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes and visiting the unique 'îlets' like La Nouvelle. Consider staying overnight for a full experience.
Trails range from well-maintained paths to more rugged routes. They are generally not exposed, but require a good level of fitness, especially for ascents.
Some 'îlets' have small shops or restaurants where you can buy food and drinks. However, it's crucial to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer hikes.
Mobile reception is very limited and often non-existent in many parts of Cirque de Mafate, adding to its remote charm. Be prepared to be disconnected.
Pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a first-aid kit, sturdy hiking shoes, and a rain jacket as weather can change quickly.
📸 📸 Photography
Piton Maïdo offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise. Trails leading to and within the 'îlets' like La Nouvelle provide opportunities for landscape and village photography.
Early mornings for sunrise light and fewer clouds, and late afternoons for golden hour are ideal. Midday can be harsh for photography due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural parks and near inhabited areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone in Cirque de Mafate.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant village shots. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The unique architecture of the 'îlets', the dramatic volcanic caldera, the lush vegetation, and the daily life of the inhabitants offer many unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a helicopter tour for a less physically demanding way to see the cirque's grandeur, which can be thrilling for kids. +1When visiting the 'îlets', emphasize the unique lifestyle and the importance of respecting the local environment and residents. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited. Ensure children have appropriate footwear and sun protection. The remoteness means being self-sufficient is key for a smooth family adventure.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Trekkers
It's essential to be well-prepared. Start hikes early to avoid the heat and potential cloud cover. Carry ample water and food, as resupply points are scarce. Sturdy hiking boots are a must, and always inform someone of your hiking plans. The feeling of solitude and connection with nature here is unparalleled.
📸 Photographers
+1 The 'îlets' themselves, with their distinctive architecture and way of life, provide intimate and compelling subjects. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive scenery, while telephoto lenses can be useful for details within the villages. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can add a moody, atmospheric element to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Lifestyle of Mafate's 'Îlets'
+1Visiting these 'îlets', such as La Nouvelle or Marla, offers a profound glimpse into a simpler existence. You can experience their distinct architecture, enjoy local hospitality, and appreciate the tranquility that comes with being disconnected from the hustle and bustle of urban life. It's a chance to witness a truly unique cultural heritage preserved against the odds.
Remember that these are inhabited areas, and visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the local culture and privacy. Engaging with the community, perhaps by purchasing local crafts or enjoying a meal at a small eatery, can enrich your experience and support these remarkable settlements.
Navigating Mafate: Hiking Trails and Access
Another significant access point is from Dos d'Ane, offering different perspectives and routes into the cirque. For those seeking less strenuous options or unique views, the Piton Maïdo viewpoint provides a spectacular, albeit distant, panorama of the entire caldera. While not a trail into Mafate, it's an essential vantage point for understanding its scale.
It's crucial to plan your hikes considering the weather. Starting early is highly recommended to avoid the midday sun and the frequent formation of clouds that can obscure the breathtaking views. Always carry sufficient water, snacks, and appropriate gear, as services are scarce within the cirque.
The Role of Helicopters in Mafate
+1For visitors, helicopters offer a unique and often breathtaking way to experience Mafate. A scenic helicopter tour provides unparalleled views of the vast caldera, its dramatic cliffs, and the isolated villages from above. This can be a fantastic alternative for those unable to undertake the strenuous hikes or for a different perspective on the landscape.
While offering convenience and stunning vistas, helicopter flights are a significant expense. It's important to research operators and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The sound of helicopters is a common, albeit sometimes disruptive, element of the Mafate soundscape, a reminder of its unique logistical challenges.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit