Mafate Cirque Traverse
Also known as: GR R2 sections
The Cirque de Mafate - a spectacular roadless caldera whose villages are supplied only by helicopter, laced with hiking trails
The route
The line through Cirque de Mafate, Reunion (France) - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Cilaos / Saint-Denis (start)Trailhead
Start [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3Stage camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 4EndTrailhead
End of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
Year-round (drier May-Nov)
Tropical heat, afternoon cloud/rain; cool at altitude
Best in the drier months; the cirque is roadless (walk in only); gîte bookings. Confirm.
On the trail
A roadless volcanic cirque of ridges, ravines and tiny hamlets
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Enter via the Col des Bœufs; many route options between the îlets
Getting there & staying
Col des Bœufs or Rivière des Galets
Point-to-point may need transport between ends - confirm
Village gîtes (îlets) - the only lodging in the roadless cirque
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Cilaos / Saint-Denis; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; a network of gîtes in the hamlets (booked). Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
The relentless up-and-down terrain, heat, afternoon storms, remoteness
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.