Quels sont les volcans actifs de La Réunion ?

Le Piton de la Fournaise, situé sur l'île de La Réunion, est un volcan actif. Il est connu pour sa fréquence élevée d'éruptions et est considéré comme l'un des volcans les plus actifs du monde.

Est-il possible de visiter le Piton de la Fournaise ?

Oui, il est possible de visiter le Piton de la Fournaise. Des circuits de randonnée sont organisés par des guides professionnels qui vous emmèneront à la découverte du volcan et de ses environs. Il est cependant important de suivre les consignes de sécurité et de ne pas s'aventurer dans des zones interdites ou dangereuses.

Y a-t-il d'autres volcans sur l'île de La Réunion ?

Oui, il y a d'autres volcans sur l'île de La Réunion, bien que tous ne soient pas actifs. Le Piton des Neiges, qui se trouve dans le centre de l'île, est un volcan éteint qui culmine à 3 070 mètres d'altitude. Le Piton de l'Eau, qui se trouve dans le nord de l'île, est également un volcan éteint.

The volcanoes of Reunion Island: 5 exceptional sites

Reunion Island is a volcanic island with particularly intense volcanic activity. In fact, Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active craters on the planet, shaping year after year the contours and geography of this fascinating land. It is thanks to this volcano that Reunion Island boasts its astonishing black sand beaches... Of course, reaching the summit of Piton de la Fournaise is one of the major tourist activities on the island. However, it is not the only volcanic attraction of Reunion. Here are various ways to experience the Reunionese volcano...

The gigantic crater of Piton de la Fournaise

The Piton de La Fournaise occupies a very large part of Reunion Island, about 40% of its surface area. Located in the southeast of the island, it is accessible to travelers, provided, of course, that it is not in an eruptive phase. To discover it, simply take a forest road and lace up your sneakers to begin its long hike. Moreover, due to the volcano's activity, the hike never looks the same. The geology and flora vary depending on volcanic activity. Upon arrival, the landscape is breathtaking. The immense crater of Piton de La Fournaise opens before your eyes while the summit seems perched above a sea of clouds.

The lava flows in the south of Reunion Island

In addition to the crater itself, the volcano also shapes the entire southern part of the island. Another forest road, called the "Lava Road," runs along the coast. There, you will see all the past lava flows, including the most impressive ones that flow directly into the Indian Ocean. On this side of the island, 6 major lava flows are visible, creating unforgettable landscapes where steep black basalt cliffs contrast with the lush green vegetation of Reunion Island.

The "Plaine des Sables", a desert-like expanse

As you climb to the summit of Piton de la Fournaise, you will also cross the Plaine des Sables, which almost looks like a lunar landscape. Located at over 2000 meters above sea level, this long, arid stretch is made up of volcanic rock in shades of red and ochre. If you've ever dreamed of leaving Earth to visit Mars, this is an essential stop in Reunion Island! Moreover, you'll observe countless natural sculptures here, remnants of past eruptions. However, to fully appreciate the beauty of the place, it's best to start early. Typically, the Plaine des Sables quickly becomes shrouded in mist by mid-morning. Therefore, never stray from the trails. Both Piton de la Fournaise and the Plaine des Sables can be dangerous and have trapped many hikers before.

Visiting the lava tunnels

If you are a fan of spelunking and dream of exploring the depths of the Earth, let yourself be guided through the lava tunnels of Reunion Island. When lava cools on the surface, it remains fluid longer in its core, creating a network of underground galleries. Guides organize tours of these tunnels, sharing anecdotes related to the volcanoes of Reunion Island along the way. These excursions are accessible to all levels, including children. However, never venture into the lava tunnels alone. Some areas are still particularly hot and unstable.

Notre-Dame des Laves, the church spared by the volcano

Finally, let's conclude this volcanic tour with a curiosity from Reunion Island… By taking the famous Route des Laves, near Sainte-Rose, you will come across a small Catholic church surrounded by lava. This chapel was spared by the 1977 lava flow, even though the molten rock entered the nave up to a distance of 3 meters. Ultimately, Piton de La Fournaise decided to spare the building, bypassing it without even touching it, despite previously destroying everything in its path. Very colorful and adorned with stained glass windows, this church is as charming as it is fascinating. Of course, it is a highly frequented place of worship and pilgrimage in Reunion Island.

All Our Tips for Visiting Reunion Island

Fly to Reunion Island!

All our flights to Reunion Island

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the active volcanoes of Reunion Island?

The Piton de la Fournaise, located on the island of Reunion, is an active volcano. It is known for its frequent eruptions and is considered one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

Is it possible to visit the Piton de la Fournaise?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Piton de la Fournaise. Guided hiking tours are organized by professional guides who will take you to explore the volcano and its surroundings. However, it's important to follow safety instructions and avoid venturing into restricted or dangerous areas.

Are there other volcanoes on Reunion Island?

Yes, there are other volcanoes on Reunion Island, although not all of them are active. The Piton des Neiges, located in the central part of the island, is an extinct volcano that rises to 3,070 meters above sea level. The Piton de l'Eau, located in the northern part of the island, is also an extinct volcano.