Piton de la Fournaise Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Facts and practical information

Located in the Saint-Benoît region of Réunion, Piton de la Fournaise is a captivating shield volcano that attracts adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. With its majestic beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes, this volcanic wonder offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Standing at an impressive height of 2,632 meters, Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Its name, which translates to "Peak of the Furnace," perfectly captures the fiery nature of this natural phenomenon. The volcano's constant activity, characterized by frequent eruptions, adds to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a thrilling and unique adventure.

The journey to Piton de la Fournaise begins with a breathtaking drive through the picturesque landscapes of Réunion. As you approach the volcano, you'll be greeted by an otherworldly sight of black lava fields and rugged terrain, hinting at the raw power that lies within this geological wonder.

Exploring the volcano's surroundings offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind their way through the dramatic landscapes, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the fascinating geological formations created by the volcano's eruptions. From ancient lava flows to stunning crater views, every step reveals a new facet of Piton de la Fournaise's captivating beauty.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided tours are available, offering valuable insights into the volcano's history, geology, and cultural significance. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the volcanic landscapes, sharing stories and legends that have been passed down through generations.

As you explore the area, keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that call this volcanic terrain home. Despite the harsh conditions, the region is surprisingly rich in biodiversity, with rare plant species and endemic birds adding a touch of vibrancy to the otherwise barren landscape.

Alternative names: First ascent: 1751Last eruption: 2020Elevation: 8635 ftCoordinates: 21°13'43"S, 55°40'11"E

Location

Saint-BenoîtReunion

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Piton de la Fournaise Top Attractions

Piton de la Fournaise Attractions - What to See and Explore

Piton de la Fournaise offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Commerson Crater, Enclos Fouqué, Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob, Formica Leo. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Volcano
Commerson Crater
Commerson Crater is a caldera in the mountains of Réunion, an overseas department of France. Located in the municipal territory of Saint-Joseph, it is part of the Piton de la Fournaise, a shield volcano on the eastern end of Réunion Island, but is located outside of the Enclos Fouqué, the volcano's most recent caldera.
Volcano
Enclos Fouqué
The Enclos Fouqué is the most recent caldera build by the Piton de la Fournaise, the active volcano of the isle of la Réunion.
Mountain • Natural attraction • Cliff
Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob
Pas de Bellecombe-Jacob is a mountain pass and vista point overlooking Enclos Fouqué, the last caldera formed by Piton de la Fournaise, the active volcano on the eastern side of Réunion island in the Indian Ocean.

Natural attraction • Volcano
Formica Leo
Formica Leo, named for its similar shape to the pitfall built by the antlion, is a small volcanic crater of the Piton de la Fournaise, the active volcano on the eastern side of Réunion island in the Indian Ocean.
Natural attraction • Cliff
Rivière des Remparts – Rivière Langevin Important Bird Area
Rivière des Remparts – Rivière Langevin Important Bird Area is a 7000 ha tract of land on the island of Réunion, a French territory in the western Indian Ocean.
Volcano
Cratère Rivals
Rivals crater is a small volcanic cone adventitious of Piton de la Fournaise, the active volcano of Reunion Island, a French overseas department in the southwestern Indian Ocean. It is located in the heart of the Piton de la Fournaise massif on the...

Day trips

Piton de la Fournaise – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Piton de la Fournaise, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kélonia (Saint-Leu), Piton des Neiges, Conservatoire botanique national de Mascarin (Saint-Leu).

26 milesW
Aquarium, Park, Zoo
Kélonia, Saint-Leu
Nestled on the scenic west coast of Réunion Island in the city of Saint-Leu, Kélonia is a unique attraction that combines conservation, education, and research with the enchantment of an aquarium. This ocean observatory is dedicated to the study and preservation of...
15 milesNW
Volcano, Natural attraction, Mountain
Piton des Neiges
Piton des Neiges is an awe-inspiring natural landmark and the highest point on Réunion Island, a French territory located in the Indian Ocean. This dormant volcano soars to an altitude of 3,070 meters (10,069 feet) and is a central feature of the island's dramatic...
25 milesW
Botanical garden
Conservatoire botanique national de Mascarin, Saint-Leu
The Conservatoire botanique national de Mascarin is a national conservatory and botanical garden located at 2, rue du Père Georges, Colimaçons, Saint-Leu, Réunion, France. It is open daily except Monday; an admission fee is charged.
22 milesN
Nature, Natural attraction, Waterfall
Niagara Falls, Sainte-Marie
Niagara Fall is a waterfall in the commune of Sainte-Suzanne on the island of Réunion. Its height is approximately 25 metres. It is of easy access by car, and its pool is a popular picnic place on weekends and holidays.
27 milesNW
Botanical garden, Garden, Park
Jardin de l'État, Saint-Denis
Nestled in the heart of Saint-Denis, Reunion, the Jardin de l'État stands as an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty amidst the bustling city life. This historic park, the only one of its kind in the city, is a verdant retreat that invites locals and tourists alike...