Hiking on Piton des Neiges

Rising to a height of 3,071 meters, Piton des Neiges is the highest peak in Reunion Island, as well as in the Indian Ocean. Therefore, it is an essential stop for all hikers seeking breathtaking landscapes at the cost of some physical effort. Moreover, with Piton des Neiges, there is no need for special equipment or mountaineering skills. The hike remains accessible to everyone, and the majestic panoramas are breathtaking!

The main starting points for hikes to the Piton des Neiges

Two main villages allow you to start a hike to reach the summit of Piton des Neiges. From Cilaos, this is the shortest access. On average, expect 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours to reach the top of the mountain and cover 8 km of hiking, with 1730 m of positive elevation gain. The starting point is from the parking lot of Bloc, about 3 km from the center of the village.

Another starting point can also be from the Salazie Cirque, in the village of Hell-Bourg. The slope of this hike is slightly gentler. However, it takes 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours to complete the ascent of Piton des Neiges. Similarly, the hike covers 18 km and 2350 m of positive elevation gain.

Conseils de randonnées sur le Piton des Neiges à La Réunion

The first light of day from the summit of Piton des Neiges

Regardless of the path taken, all routes to the summit of Piton des Neiges converge at the shelter of Caverne du Four. Located at 2400 meters above sea level, it allows hikers to rest and spend the night in warmth before the final ascent the next morning. Therefore, it is recommended to leave the shelter before the first light of day, to climb to the top of Piton des Neiges by the light of headlamps. At this hour, frost sweeps over the volcanic rock. By timing your ascent well, you can then witness the sunrise from the summit. The fantastic landscapes of Reunion Island will unfold before your amazed eyes. The reward is breathtaking!

Lever de soleil sur le Piton des Neiges à La Réunion

Some tips for successfully climbing Piton des Neiges

If the Piton des Neiges remains a summit easily accessible, note that it is still perched at over 3000 meters. It is therefore better to have a certain level of physical fitness to embark on the conquest of its summit. Similarly, equip yourself with suitable gear to climb this mountain. Even though Reunion is a tropical land, the temperature often hovers around 0°C when you gain altitude. Moreover, strong gusts of wind blow fiercely on the slopes of the Piton des Neiges. Pack warm clothing, as well as food and drink accordingly. While climbing the highest summit in the Indian Ocean is an unparalleled experience in Reunion, prepare yourself adequately and don't be too ambitious. Also, don't hesitate to spread the hike over two days, making a stop at its mountain lodge. The morning spectacle is even more beautiful, and the effort is thus better distributed.

Randonnée sur la Piton des Neiges à La Réunion
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