Things to Do at Plaine des Cafres, on the Way to the Volcano

The Volcan Forest Road starts in the village of Bourg-Murat and runs 23 km to the Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob, a lookout point overlooking the Enclos Fouqué and the Piton de la Fournaise cone. Along the way:

• Le Nez de Bœuf · a lookout point overlooking the steep-sided valley of the Rivière des Remparts.
• Le Pas des Sables · the passage in the rampart that opens onto the Plaine des Sables.
• La Plaine des Sables · a red and gray rocky landscape, crisscrossed by a slag trail between Demi-Piton and Piton Chisny.
• Le Pas de Bellecombe · starting point of the trail to the volcano's summit.

The volcano is part of Réunion National Park, whose peaks, cirques, and mountain walls are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before you go, check the weather forecast and official alerts: access to the Enclos may be closed during eruptions.

In Bourg-Murat, the Cité du Volcan is a museum dedicated to volcanoes around the world and to Piton de la Fournaise. Opened in 1992 under the name Maison du Volcan, it was completely renovated in 2014: 4D theater, panoramic screen, augmented reality. A great place to visit to prepare for the hike up the volcano, or on a rainy day.

Pastures, forests, and peaks: the best way to explore the Plaine des Cafres is on foot, along its many marked trails. At high altitudes, the air stays cool, especially in the evening: be sure to pack warm clothes, even in the summer.

The Chalet Badamier Blanc accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 bedrooms and is located at 52 Impasse Bellevue, on the Volcano Road. When you return from your day out: the large living room and the outdoor hot tub for 5 guests. Starting at €260 per night.

To combine a volcano and a lagoon, find out what to do in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and check out our vacation guide to Réunion: where to stay.