Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island
Nature Reserve Volcanic peaks and dramatic landscapes on Réunion Island
Reunion’s Pitons, cirques and remparts combine volcanic peaks, deep calderas and steep ravines; hikers tackle trails across Mafate, Cilaos and Salazie while guides point out endemic plants and lava-formed cliffs.
The Pitons, cirques and remparts of Réunion Island are a volcanic and mountainous landscape on the French Indian Ocean island of Réunion, notable for steep volcanic peaks, deep cirques and dramatic cliffs. The property is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its geology and biodiversity.
Key features include the extinct summit Piton des Neiges at about 3,070 meters and the active volcano Piton de la Fournaise at about 2,632 meters, plus three major cirques - Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos - that form large erosional amphitheaters. Hiking, volcanic observation, and visits to remote mountain villages are primary activities, with a network of trails and viewing points across the interior.
Réunion’s landscape is the product of volcanic activity over millions of years followed by intense erosion that formed the cirques and remparts. The island’s geological formation and long-term ecological processes are the basis for its World Heritage designation.
The site covers much of the central highlands of Réunion Island in the western Indian Ocean; access is by road from coastal towns, with trailheads and mountain huts serving hikers and climbers.
- Weather and clothing: The property combines volcanic peaks and three deep cirques; highland weather can change rapidly so carry warm, waterproof clothing for hikes.
- Access and logistics: Many of the island's trails require good fitness; some cirque villages are reached only on foot or by helicopter during certain seasons.
What to See #
- Piton des Neiges: Piton des Neiges, the island's highest peak at about 3,070 meters, formed by an extinct shield volcano and offering highland habitats.
- Piton de la Fournaise: Piton de la Fournaise, an active shield volcano rising to about 2,632 meters that is monitored for eruptions and forms dramatic lava landscapes.
- Cirques (Mafate, Salazie, Cilaos): The three large cirques - Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos - are deep erosional amphitheaters carved into the island's interior, each with distinct villages and access trails.
Tips for Visiting Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island #
- Check Parc National de la Réunion notices for trail closures and volcanic activity updates before you go, especially if you plan to approach Piton de la Fournaise - access can be restricted for safety.
- Start mountain hikes at dawn to avoid afternoon cloud buildup and to benefit from clearer views of the Pitons and cirques; parking and trailheads can fill up later in the day.
- Remember that Mafate is only reachable on foot or by helicopter; if you want to explore the cirques away from road access, arrange trekking routes and overnight lodging well in advance.
Best Time to Visit Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island #
Aim for the dry season (May-October) for the best conditions for hiking the Pitons and coastal activities; avoid cyclone season (Nov-Apr).
Weather & Climate near Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island #
Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cool summers (peaking in February) and cold winters (coldest in August). Temperatures range from 4°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1739 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (264 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C. Heavy rain (263 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 9°C. Heavy rain (262 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (126 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 8°C. Heavy rain (216 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
