5 easy walks around Piton de la Fournaise

Piton Jacob hike with views of the Piton de la Fournaise, Réunion Island

Do you dream of discovering the spectacular scenery of Piton de la Fournaise without having to climb steep slopes?


Good news: there are several easy hikes around Piton de la FournaiseThese walks are accessible even if you're not an experienced hiker. Whether you're with family, friends or just passing through Réunion, these walks will give you an unforgettable glimpse of one of the world's most active volcanoes, without any intense effort.


And if you want to explore the volcano even further, why not book a guided tour of the site at a Lava tunnel on RéunionA spectacular and accessible activity that literally plunges you into the bowels of the Piton de la Fournaise.


Here is a a selection of 5 easy walks to explore the volcano's surroundingsWith all the practical information you need (duration, distance, gradients and points of interest) and links to the itineraries and routes of the walks.

1. From Plaine des Sables to Piton de Bert

  • Distance 13 km round trip
  • Duration : 3h30
  • Vertical rise : 140m
  • Departure Foc-Foc car park, on the volcano road (before the Pas de Bellecombe car park)

Itinerary : Hiking information on Rando Pitons

Why it's easy Wide, even path with very little change in altitude.

Not to be missed It offers an exceptional view of the Fouqué enclosure and the Dolomieu crater. It is also one of the best observation points in the event of an eruption. The desert landscape gives the impression of walking on the Moon.

The Plaine des Sables road leading to the Piton de la Fournaise on Réunion Island

2. From Pas des Sables to Morne Langevin

  • Distance 7 km round trip
  • Duration approx. 2h15
  • Vertical rise : 130m
  • Departure Parking du Pas des Sables
  • Itinerary : Randopitons hiking map

Why it's easy This walk is accessible to all, with a well-marked trail and a moderate gradient. The route is clear, offering a pleasant walk with no major obstacles.

Not to be missed The spectacular views over the Plaine des Sables and Piton de la Fournaise from the start of the trail. At the top of Morne Langevin, on a clear day, you can admire breathtaking views over Grand Galet, Grand Coude, Saint-Joseph and the ocean.

3. Saint-Philippe coastal path: from Le Tremblet to Pointe de la Table

cap méchant falise coast saint-philippe reunion island


Why it's easy Flat coastal walk, shady path.

Not to be missed You'll see lava flows frozen in the ocean, impressive basaltic formations and Table Point, the result of an eruption in 1986. An original hike between tropical forest and sea. On this hike, you won't have a view of the volcano, but rather of the Enclos Fouqué.

4. The Piton Kapor trail


Why it's easy Gentle climb, well-maintained path.

Not to be missed The views not only of Piton de la Fournaise, but also of the Jacob, Kapor, Payankë, Célimène and Legros pitons; crossing lava flows and observing the flora and fauna at the foot of the rampart. A short walk and a good alternative to the summit trail.

5 - Foc-Foc trail and the Puys Ramond

  • Distance 20 km round trip
  • Duration Approximately 5h30
  • Vertical rise : 437m
  • Departure Foc-Foc car park, on the volcano road (before the Pas de Bellecombe car park)
  • Link : Rando Tec tec hiking map - National Park 

Why it's easy The first part of the hike is almost flat (as far as Piton Rouge).

Not to be missed Crossing bare lava flows, sparse vegetation typical of the volcano and views of the Ramon puys and Piton de la Fournaise. Very photogenic on a clear day!


Even if you're not a great athlete, it's still possible to take an easy hike around Piton de la Fournaise. These routes allow you to explore the diversity of volcanic landscapes - lava flows, craters, breathtaking views - without tiring yourself out too much.

Don't forget to leave early, take water, sun cream and a windbreaker: the climate at altitude can change rapidly.

If you would like to find out more about the landscapes of Réunion and the Piton de la Fournaise, we also recommend that you visit Take a hiking guide with you! (you'll find several on the web)

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Profundo, by Jocelyn Michel

(Sole trader)

SIRET : 419 831 920 00048

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