Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best Multiday Hikes
The Haut Mafate
What's not to love in the Haut Mafate? Surrounded by ramparts, criss-crossed with gullies
and studded with narrow ridges, Cirque de Mafate (
Click here
)
is the wildest and the most
remote of Réunion's Cirques. The most scenic areas of the southern part of the Cirque can
be completed in a four-day loop that takes in the hamlets of La Nouvelle, Roche-Plate and
Marla, which all have
gîtes d'étape
. There are various access points into the Haut Mafate,
but the most convenient option is the Col des Bœufs car park, in the Cirque de Salazie.
This loop can easily be combined with the Bas Mafate and Tour des Cirques.
Highlights include the forested Plaine des Tamarins, the deep valley of the Rivière des
Galets, the waterfall at Trois Roches and the ruins of Maison Laclos, which is said to be the
oldest dwelling in the Cirque. Of course, you'll also enjoy phenomenal views.
IGN's 1:25,000 topographic map 4402 RT covers the area.
The Haut Mafate Hike at a Glance
»
Duration
4 days
»
Distance
20.4km
»
Difficulty
moderate
»
Start/Finish
Col des Bœufs car park
»
Nearest Town
Grand Îlet
