Piton de la Fournaise

Piton de la Fournaise is an active shield volcano on Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean, known for frequent effusive eruptions and extensive lava flows. It reaches roughly 2,630 metres above sea level and is contained within a large volcanic caldera.

The landscape visitors encounter includes the broad Enclos Fouqué caldera, recent lava fields, and the summit Dolomieu crater which is the focus of many eruptions. Trails and designated viewpoints such as Pas de Bellecombe provide access for viewing the caldera and lava formations when authorities permit access.

Scientific monitoring and civil protection agencies record eruptions and manage access; the volcano has a long history of eruptions through the 20th and 21st centuries and is closely observed for public safety. Eruptive activity typically consists of lava flows rather than large explosive events.

The volcano lies on the eastern side of Réunion Island and is part of Réunion National Park; access is by road to designated parking and trailheads, and the site is a major visitor attraction on the island.

• Activity level: One of the most active volcanoes in the world, with frequent eruptions concentrated inside the Enclos Fouqué caldera.
• Visitor safety and viewpoints: Public access is controlled for safety; viewpoints like Pas de Bellecombe offer safe observation when the area is open.

What to See #

• Enclos Fouqué: Enclos Fouqué caldera - the large, horseshoe-shaped crater area that contains many recent lava flows and eruption sites.
• Dolomieu crater: Dolomieu crater - the principal summit crater where many eruptions originate and where morphological changes are frequently observed.
• Pas de Bellecombe: Pas de Bellecombe viewpoint and trailheads that provide road access and marked hiking routes to view the caldera and recent lava fields.