Extinct for thousands of years, Piton des Neiges nestles at the heart of Réunion. Rising to 3,070 m above sea level, this volcano is not only the highest point on the island, but also throughout the entire Indian Ocean. Deeply cherished by hikers and nature lovers, it stands as the most spectacular trek from Cilaos to undertake during a trip to Réunion.

History

While its formation dates back five million years, Piton des Neiges emerged from the sea three million years ago. Indeed, the story of how Réunion island was created is tied to this volcano, which has been inactive for over 12,000 years. Legend has it that snow fell at this location in August 2003, while a heat wave gripped mainland France.

Today

Integrated into the Réunion National Park, Piton des Neiges has been listed among Réunion's sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage since 2010.

There are several ways to reach the summit of this massif. You could begin your adventure from the Salazie cirque or the Plaine des Cafres. Dedicated trekkers, however, typically start from the Cilaos cirque, also located at the island's center. They generally make a stop at the sole mountain lodge nestled within the massif. After regaining their strength, they set off again to climb the final kilometers toward the summit. Their efforts—roughly an hour's walk—are rewarded upon arrival. Indeed, from the heights of Piton des Neiges, the view of sunrise or sunset, with the Indian Ocean and its turquoise waters as backdrop, is breathtaking. Before your eyes lie the three cirques: Cilaos to the south, Mafate to the northwest and Salazie to the northeast, draped in lush vegetation. Worth noting: these sites emerged following the collapse of Piton des Neiges' vault. These collapses carved great cliffs before solidified lava shaped the landscape.

Undoubtedly, a trek to the Piton des Neiges massif represents the must-do experience for those seeking a deeper exploration of the island. This immersion in pristine nature leaves an indelible impression.

Climate

Piton des Neiges enjoys a tropical climate with significantly more rainfall in summer than in winter.

• Via Cilaos:

Head to the BLOC parking area at the edge of Cilaos village. Once you reach the ONF sign, follow the tree markings. The trail begins in forest before plunging you into dense vegetation. The climb and stairs will demand your effort. The Matarum plateau marks the halfway point. You'll find a spring there to refresh yourself. Within minutes of hiking, you'll reach a chapel carved into the rock. Continue your ascent, following the white blazes that guide you toward the summit.

• Via Salazie and Hell-Bourg:

Take the Salazie road toward Hell-Bourg. Take time to explore the village before turning onto the trail behind the stadium. The path begins with a climb where you can enjoy views of Hell-Bourg village and Salazie. Next, venture into the Terre Plate forest. Continue straight, avoiding the passage leading to Manouilh spring. You'll reach a steep descent where heather dominates the landscape. Follow this with the ascent of Cap Anglais, then Mussard cavern, and after a few more kilometers at a higher altitude, the famous Piton des Neiges.

• Via La Plaine des Cafres:

First reach Bourg-Murat, then take the Piton Bleu road branching left. You can park your car at the end of the path. From there, the route leads first to the Lapervanche and Tortue peaks. After approximately 6 km, you'll descend a rampart about a hundred meters high where vegetation becomes more abundant. You'll find yourself in the heart of the Bébour forest. Continue the remaining kilometers, passing through the Kerveguen slope and the mountain lodge, ending at the summit of Piton des Neiges.

What to Do at Piton des Neiges?

• Enjoy multiple hiking possibilities
• Discover Réunion's flora
• Photograph the landscapes
• Take in the view over Réunion's three cirques, etc.