The Piton des Neiges, the roof of the Indian Ocean

Reunion Island is inextricably linked with the Piton des Neiges, the volcano that created two-thirds of the island over three million years ago! Dormant for 120 centuries, the Piton des Neiges has eroded over the years due to the lack of volcanic activity, but it remains the island's highest peak at 3070 metres!

However, don't be fooled by its name, as the Piton des Neiges is rarely covered in a blanket of white! In fact, it doesn't have eternal snow and snowfalls are infrequent.

Standing majestically in the middle of the island, the long-extinct volcano is a fascinating sight. For hikers, this highest point in the Indian Ocean is a superb hiking destination. In any case, it's an opportunity to explore a wild and unspoilt natural environment!

In 2010, UNESCO included the Piton des Neiges in its list of natural World Heritage sites, along with other natural wonders of Réunion. The Piton des Neiges is also part of Réunion's National Park. Perfectly protected and preserved, it can continue to sleep in peace.

The hike starts from the village of Cilaos. To do this, you first need to take the famous 400-turn road leading to the village! Then head towards Bras Sec, stopping at the "Le Bloc" bus stop. The trailhead is on the left. Be careful not to leave valuables in your car during the hike, as the car park is not guarded.

If you don't have a car, you can reach the trail by taking the bus from Saint-Louis. Get off in the village centre, then take the bus back to the Mare à Jonc stop. The bus will drop you off just in front of the trail.

There are several hiking trails to the summit of the Piton des Neiges, at an altitude of 3070m. Whichever route you take, it should be remembered that this excursion is reserved for experienced hikers or those who are more sporty, as it is quite difficult. You should also be aware that it's cold and that you need to be well equipped - climbing the Piton des Neiges is not something you can improvise!

The path used most often is the shortest, but also the steepest: allow 8 hours round trip for just fifteen kilometres, with a positive difference in altitude of 1,730 metres!

The aim of this hike is generally to reach the summit to see the sunrise... A unique and timeless moment, such is the breathtaking spectacle. What's more, the summit usually covers up quickly after that, so it would be a shame to get to the top and see nothing!

To witness the sunrise, you'll need to leave the day before and spend the night at the Caverne Dufour gîte. It's about a 3-hour climb to the gîte (and it's all uphill, so be prepared!). This mountain refuge allows you to rest and eat on the spot, before setting off again very early the next morning. We advise you to book your bed at the refuge in advance, as places fill up quickly!

Now it's reward day... After waking up very early, you now have the summit in your sights! Don't forget to bring a headlamp for this final section, which takes place at night. The 4km from the gîte to the summit takes around 2 hours. The path is rather steep, with little visibility and unevenness, making it difficult to make rapid progress.