Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and one of the must-do excursions on Reunion Island. From Saint-Denis, the day is easy to plan: here are our tips.
The volcano road
Allow about 2 hours’ drive from Saint-Denis to Pas de Bellecombe, via the Plaine des Cafres and Bourg-Murat. The last kilometres cross the Plaine des Sables, a mineral landscape in red and ochre tones that looks like another planet.
Stops not to miss
- The Cité du Volcan in Bourg-Murat: a modern museum to understand the volcano before seeing it.
- The Plaine des Sables viewpoint.
- Pas de Bellecombe, at more than 2,300 metres, overlooking the caldera and the crater.
- For hikers, the trail to the Dolomieu crater, when it is open.
Safety
- Access to the caldera may be closed by the authorities, especially during an eruption or volcanic activity. Always check official information the day before and on the morning itself.
- Stay on marked trails.
- It is cold at altitude, especially in the morning: bring a jacket, a hat, water, food and sunscreen.
Our tip
Leave very early (around 5 am): clouds often rise by late morning and hide the view. Reception is open 24/7 for an early start, and breakfast is served from 6 am for slightly later departures. For more ideas, see our hikes and day trips.
Where to stay in Saint-Denis?
Hôtel Select welcomes you in Saint-Denis, 8 minutes from Roland Garros Airport: 24/7 reception, free covered parking, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms and a breakfast buffet from 6 am. Our team speaks French, English, Creole and Hindi and is happy to help you plan your outings.