Cirque de Mafate: Hikes & Activities
France's only roadless cirque — accessible only on foot or by helicopter. From your van, explore Mafate via the viewpoints or descend into the cirque for an unforgettable hike.
Mafate is unique in France: no road penetrates it. Its 123 km² of vertiginous mountains, tropical forests and deeply carved rivers are accessible only on foot or by helicopter. Its 700 residents live without cars, without a supermarket and sometimes without mains electricity. For the van-lifer, it is an encounter with another world, within reach of your van.
Mafate, the cirque no car can reach
For the van-lifer, Mafate reveals itself in two stages: contemplation from the viewpoints accessible by van, and immersion on foot by descending into the cirque via the GR trails. The van stays at the top — and that is precisely the magic.
Viewpoints accessible from your van
The most celebrated viewpoint over Mafate. The gaze plunges 1,400m to the floor of the cirque, revealing the îlets of La Nouvelle, Roche-Plate and Aurère. On clear days, you can make out the inhabitants with the naked eye. Access: from Saint-Paul or Saint-Leu, tarmac road, 1h15 from the coast.
Direct view of Grand Bénare (2,898m). Less busy than Maïdo, wilder atmosphere, quieter car park — ideal for a peaceful overnight stop. Access: turn-off on the Maïdo road, narrow but manageable in a van.
The main gateway into Mafate on foot. From the car park, the descent to La Nouvelle takes 1h30. The starting point for most hikers. Access: from Dos d'Âne (La Possession), D6 road then forest road — winding but tarmacked.
Day hikes
The introductory hike into Mafate. From Col des Bœufs, the descent to La Nouvelle (~250 inhabitants) is gradual and well waymarked. School, church, guesthouses — a civilisation suspended between the peaks.
The must: Have lunch at a guesthouse in La Nouvelle (chicken carri, rougail sausisse) before heading back up.
Leave early (7am) to make the most of the cool morning air and avoid the afternoon clouds. The return climb is more demanding — carry enough water and at least one energy snack.
A vertiginous descent from Maïdo to Roche-Plate, one of the most isolated îlets in Mafate. Steep trail, sometimes exposed — for experienced hikers only. Bring a minimum of 3 litres of water per person.
A trail running along the cliff edge with continuous views over Mafate. Suitable for everyone, including children. Perfect for a sunrise walk from your bivouac at Maïdo — without descending into the cirque.
Multi-day hikes
True immersion takes 2 to 4 days, sleeping in guesthouses. Your van stays parked at Col des Bœufs or Maïdo — and greets you with all its comforts after two days on foot.
Day 1: Col des Bœufs → La Nouvelle → Aurère (6h, difficult)
Day 2: Aurère → Grand Place → Marla (5h, moderate)
Day 3: Marla → Col des Bœufs (4h, moderate)
The ideal formula for a first experience: Col des Bœufs → La Nouvelle (Day 1), overnight at a guesthouse, explore and return (Day 2). Your van is waiting at the col with a shower, a hot meal and a comfortable bed after two days on the trail.
The Îlets: what to see in each village
The largest and most accessible. School, church, football pitch, grocery. Ideal starting point. Numerous well-equipped guesthouses.
Perched at 1,100m, known for its artistic residents — potters, painters, sculptors. Exceptional panoramic views.
One of the most isolated and authentic. Few guesthouses — very early booking is essential.
At 1,620m, the highest îlet in Mafate. Cool temperatures, frequent mist, high-altitude vegetation.
At the heart of the cirque, with trails in every direction. An ideal base for exploring several areas.
Other activities
15 to 30-minute flights from Saint-Paul or Saint-Leu. €150–250/person. Book 48 hours ahead. The aerial view of the cirque is breathtaking.
Mafate's rivers offer some of the island's finest routes with a certified guide. €40–80/person. Beginner to expert levels available.
One of the finest spots in France. Milky Way, Southern Cross and Large Magellanic Cloud visible to the naked eye. Download Stellarium to identify the constellations.
Summary table of hikes
| Hike | Duration | Level | Van start | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Col des Bœufs → La Nouvelle | 5–6h return | 🟡 Moderate | Col des Bœufs | Living village, guesthouse lunch |
| Maïdo → Roche-Plate | 6–7h return | 🔴 Difficult | Maïdo car park | Total change of scenery |
| Maïdo ridge trail | 2–3h return | 🟢 Easy | Maïdo car park | Panorama, family-friendly |
| Grand Tour (3 days) | 3 days | 🔴 Difficult | Col des Bœufs | Full circuit, 5 îlets |
| Discovery (2 days) | 2 days | 🟡 Moderate | Col des Bœufs | Perfect first contact |
💰 Mafate budget by van
Frequently Asked Questions
Your van takes you to the edge of Mafate — and it is on foot that you cross the threshold into this world apart.
— The Van La Réunion TeamCombine an overnight stay at Maïdo (sunrise over Mafate from your van) with a day hike from Col des Bœufs the following day. Two days, two unforgettable experiences — and your van waiting each time with all the comforts you need.
Head to Mafate in your campervan
Our vans are equipped for high-altitude nights at Maïdo: diesel heater, warm bedding, complete kitchenette. Airport delivery, 7-day assistance.
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