Getting a true taste of Réunion’s wild, untouched landscapes often means venturing beyond the usual tourist spots. This group hike at Mafate, led by experienced guides from Bureau Montagne Réunion, offers a wonderful way to connect with the island’s rugged terrain, especially if you’re keen on combining a scenic drive with a challenging trek. While it’s only available in French, the experience promises breathtaking views, authentic natural beauty, and the chance to learn more about the island from passionate local guides.
What we really love about this tour? First, the stunning landscapes are hard to beat—think towering mountains and lush canyon vistas. Second, the 4×4 ride through the rivière des Galets adds an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective on the terrain, helping you reach the trailhead in style. And third, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, sharing stories and insights that bring the scenery to life. The potential snag? Since the tour runs only in French, non-French speakers might want to brush up on their language skills or consider a guided translation. But for travelers seeking an active, authentic adventure in Réunion’s interior, this hike fits the bill perfectly.
Best suited for those who enjoy moderate physical activity, are comfortable with river crossings, and love exploring nature with local experts. If your goal is to see the island’s wilderness while also experiencing a fun, guided journey, this tour offers a lot of value for its reasonable price of $79 per person.
Key Points
- Stunning views: Panoramic canyon and mountain vistas from Cayenne Islet and along the trail.
- Active adventure: Approximately 6 hours of hiking over 7.5 miles, crossing rivers, climbing, and exploring.
- Local insights: Experienced guides share stories that enrich the scenery, making the hike more meaningful.
- Authentic experience: Combines a scenic 4×4 ride with a well-rounded trek into Mafate’s remote areas.
- Practical details: Includes a local snack and drink, with options for flexible booking and cancellation.
- Considerations: The tour is conducted only in French and involves river crossings, so preparation is essential.
An Introduction to the Tour
If you’re looking to explore the raw beauty of Réunion’s interior, this group hike at Mafate is a fantastic choice. While it might not be the easiest day out, it’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local storytelling. Guided by passionate professionals from Bureau Montagne Réunion, the tour offers an ideal balance between challenge and scenery.
We love how the experience begins with a spirited 4×4 ride across the rivière des Galets—an exciting way to access the remote corners of Mafate that are otherwise difficult to reach. The ride alone is memorable, giving travelers an adrenaline-filled start before the real hiking adventure begins. The 4WD ticket costs €26 round-trip, so it’s worth considering whether to include it in your budget, but even without it, the views and experience remain impressive.
Looking for more options in Reunion? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Why This Tour Stands Out
One of the significant highlights is the opportunity to hike through a landscape that’s both spectacular and relatively untouched. From the moment you cross the footbridge onto Cayenne Islet, you’re greeted with sweeping vistas of canyons, mountains, and lush vegetation. According to reviews, guides like Emmanuel and Vincent are not only professional but enthusiastic storytellers who bring the island’s natural wonders and history to life.
The tour is designed for a moderate level of fitness. The women and men who have completed it describe it as manageable but not a walk in the park—expect some climbs and river crossings, which keep the adventure engaging.
Itinerary Breakdown
The 4×4 Ride
Your day begins with a 30-minute ride in a 4×4 vehicle. This isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience, with the vehicle navigating the rugged terrain of the rivière des Galets. The ride is exhilarating, offering views that you might miss if you only hiked, and sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyTrailhead and Ascent
Once you arrive at the trail, your guide will lead you on a hike that lasts about 5 to 6 hours over approximately 7.5 miles. The route involves crossing rivers, climbing through mountain paths, and stopping at scenic vantage points. You’ll cross a footbridge that offers a stunning panoramic view over a canyon, a perfect photo opportunity.
The Midpoint Break and Picnic
A highlight for many is the refreshing break at a basin where you can dip your feet in cool water and enjoy a picnic lunch amid breathtaking scenery. The natural setting—surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs—makes it a memorable moment of relaxation and reflection.
The Return
The hike concludes back at the starting point, offering a sense of accomplishment and a full appreciation of Mafate’s landscape. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Vincent for providing enriching explanations and safety during river crossings, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
What to Expect
- River crossings: Several spots where you’ll need to step into water, so waterproof footwear or quick-drying shoes are recommended.
- Panoramic views: From Cayenne Islet, expect spectacular vistas of the cirque de Mafate, mountains, and deep canyons.
- Natural beauty: Expect lush vegetation, mountain streams, and open-air landscapes that showcase Réunion’s wild side.
- Guided storytelling: Guides share local stories and geographical facts, making the trek educational as well as scenic.
- Physical challenge: While not overly strenuous, the hike involves some climbing and uneven terrain, so good footwear and moderate fitness are advisable.
Practicalities and Tips
What to Bring
- Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes
- Warm clothing for cooler mountain air
- Sun protection: sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen
- Food and snacks for energy
- At least 2 liters of water
- Rain gear or waterproof jacket
- A small daypack for essentials
What’s Not Included
- The 4WD ticket (€26 round trip), so consider whether to buy this beforehand
- Lunch, which you’ll need to carry
- Pets are not allowed, and open-toed shoes are discouraged for safety reasons
Duration and Group Size
The entire experience lasts around six hours, covering 7.5 miles of active hiking. The group size isn’t explicitly specified but is likely manageable in size, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Authentic Experiences & Hidden Gems
Many reviewers highlighted the guides’ passion for the island’s history and natural environment. Emmanuel, one reviewer said, “a hike with a guide isn’t just a walk, it’s a story he tells and always helps us better understand the island’s history and what’s around us.” Another guide, Vincent, is praised for his explanations and ability to keep the group engaged throughout the hike.
The scenic stops, especially the panoramic canyon views and the natural basin for a picnic, are real highlights that make this tour more than just a walk. A guest even described it as “one of the most beautiful experiences on Reunion,” emphasizing how the combination of scenery and storytelling creates a truly memorable day.
Considerations
- Language barrier: The tour is only conducted in French, so some familiarity with the language will enhance your experience.
- Seasonal changes: During cyclone season, the 4WD track might be closed, and an alternative hike is offered at Le Maïdo.
- Physical readiness: Expect to climb, cross rivers, and get your feet wet, so be prepared accordingly.
- Weather dependence: Mountain weather can change quickly; pack rain gear just in case.
This hike is ideal for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity and are interested in seeing Réunion’s interior landscapes up close. It’s suited for those who appreciate guided storytelling and authentic natural settings. If you’re comfortable with river crossings and want an active day that combines scenic drives with challenging hikes, this tour will hit the mark.
However, it’s less suitable for non-French speakers unless you’re comfortable with basic comprehension or have a guide to translate.
This group hike at Mafate offers a wonderful blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and local insight. The combination of a lively 4×4 ride, a manageable yet rewarding trek, and expert guides makes it a standout experience for travelers wanting to see Réunion’s wild side. While the language might be a barrier for some, the breathtaking views and authentic atmosphere more than compensate.
The tour’s value comes from the quality of the scenery, the friendliness and expertise of the guides, and the chance to connect deeply with the island’s natural beauty. It’s a well-rounded option for those eager to combine physical activity with cultural storytelling in one of the most scenic parts of Réunion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for non-French speakers?
The activity is conducted only in French, so understanding some basic French or having a translation help will improve your experience.
How long does the hike last?
The hike itself lasts about 5-6 hours, covering roughly 7.5 miles, with breaks included.
What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, snacks, at least 2 liters of water, rain gear, and a small daypack.
Are river crossings difficult?
They are manageable but require getting feet wet; waterproof shoes or quick-drying footwear are recommended.
Can I buy the 4WD ticket in advance?
No, the 4WD ticket (€26 round trip) is not included and can be purchased separately.
Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s best for those over 18 and in good physical condition, given the length and nature of the hike.
What happens if the 4×4 track is closed?
In cyclone season or adverse weather, an alternative hike at Le Maïdo is offered, ensuring you still get a memorable experience.
If you’re after a genuine, active adventure that takes you into Réunion’s lush mountains and offers spectacular views, this Mafate group hike is a top pick. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers eager to explore with a knowledgeable guide in a stunning natural setting.
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