How to easily access the Cirque de Mafate?

During your stay in Reunion, there is no question of leaving without having seen the Mafate cirque with your own eyes!

But do you know how to get there? Do you know how to get there, what to do there, and how to prepare your little excursion?

Because it must be said that the Mafate cirque, accessible only on foot or by air, is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. But it is an outing that involves a good dose of preparation.

If you don’t know how to get to the Cirque de Mafate, you’ve come to the right place: Latitude 21, your luxury hotel in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains , explains everything you need to plan for. ▶ I immediately discover the rooms of the Latitude 21 hotel

Plan your trip to the Mafate cirque

  The first thing to do for your excursion to Mafate is to plan the route . And for that, you have several options, knowing that you will have to, in all cases, leave on foot from the Col des Bœufs (the hike being after all the goal of the Mafate cirque). Between car, on foot and by helicopter, it’s up to you to see what you prefer!  

By car: head towards Col des Bœufs

  To start your journey to Mafate, a car will be your best ally. From Saint-Gilles-Les-Bains, take the road to Salazie. Allow about two hours of travel to the Col des Bœufs car park , the popular starting point for diving into the heart of Mafate. Don’t forget to reserve a parking space in advance during peak season .  

On foot for an incredible hike

  Once parked, lace your shoes properly, adjust your backpack , drink some water and off you go for the adventure . The trail from the Col des Bœufs descends gently towards the Plaine des Tamarins , an enchanting path through a forest with a mystical appearance. About two to three hours of walking await you to reach the first islets of Mafate , such as La Nouvelle or Marla. >>> Also read: How to prepare for your hike?

Discover Mafate from the sky by helicopter

  If hiking isn’t your thing, or you just want to make a splash, why not fly over Mafate in a helicopter? Take off from Saint-Gilles and treat yourself to a memorable flight over the cirques. It’s an unforgettable experience (and you’ll arrive much less sweaty than on foot).  

A night at the Mafate cirque, it’s possible!

  Once there, if you want to continue enjoying the spectacle that is offered to you, it is entirely possible. Provided you book in advance, of course: the lodgings on site are often full. In any case, Mafate offers several welcoming lodgings in islets like La Nouvelle, Marla and Roche Plate. It is the perfect opportunity to unwind far from everything, really everything (not even Wi-Fi to post your selfies).  

All our tips for seeing the Mafate cirque

  Mafate is magical, but you have to earn it! Before you leave, make sure you are well prepared:

• Check the weather: in Mafate, it can change quickly. Be prepared for anything.
• Equip yourself well : hiking shoes, suitable clothing, sunscreen , hat, and above all, plenty of water.
• Think about your fitness: Mafate is not a marathon, but it is uphill and downhill. A little training beforehand never hurts.

If you are staying at Latitude 21, you have already won. In addition to giving you all the right directions to discover the Mafate cirque far from all the tourists, we won’t let you leave on an empty stomach. Take advantage of our hearty breakfast to charge the batteries before leaving, and when you return, what could be better than diving into our swimming pool to cool off?

You too can discover the Mafate cirque during your vacation in Reunion Island

  The Cirque de Mafate is one of those places that changes you a little more with each visit. Whether on foot or by helicopter, don’t forget to take a break to fully soak up the beauty of the place. Book your stay with us at Latitude 21 and embark on an unparalleled Reunion adventure! We can’t wait to see you come back with stars in your eyes and stories in your heart. ▶ I want to know more about the Latitude 21 hotel