The Plaine des Cafres Botanical Trail
Discover a flora unique in the world on this lush trail in the highlands of Réunion, accessible from your van.
Réunion is home to an exceptionally rich flora, with many endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The Plaine des Cafres botanical trail is an invitation to discover this incredible natural heritage, through a walk accessible to everyone, in the heart of the island’s highlands.
By van, this trail is an ideal stop on your way up to the volcano or your exploration of the highlands. Allow 2 to 3 hours to enjoy it fully.
About the trail
The Plaine des Cafres botanical trail winds through dense highland vegetation, at around 1,400 to 1,600 metres. Marked and well maintained, it’s accessible to all levels, including families with children. Educational panels line the route and help identify the species you encounter.
The walk lasts from 1h30 to 3h depending on your pace and stops. The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs, ideal for a quiet outing between two adventures.
Bourg-Murat, Plaine des Cafres (8 km from Saint-Pierre via the RN3). Parking available at the trailhead.
Réunion’s endemic flora
Among the species you’ll come across, the highland tamarind (Acacia heterophylla) is the emblematic tree of Réunion’s high-altitude forests — endemic and protected. You’ll also find branles (tree heathers), fanjans (tree ferns) and a multitude of colourful wild flowers.
In the austral spring (October-November), some areas light up with spectacular blooms. Keep your eyes open: endemic birds such as the tuit-tuit and the Réunion blackbird nest in these forests.
The Réunion bulbul, the local blackbird and the papangue (Maillard’s harrier, an endemic raptor) are frequently seen on this trail.
How to get there by van
From Saint-Pierre or Saint-Denis, reach Bourg-Murat via the RN3. The village is about 45 minutes from Saint-Pierre and 1h15 from Saint-Denis. The trail car park is signposted from the centre of the village.
You can leave your van at the car park and set off on foot. Access is free. For the night, a few parking areas nearby let you sleep in your van before an early start towards the volcano.
The Plaine des Cafres is often misty in the morning. Wait until 9-10am for the best visibility, or set off very early to enjoy the golden morning light.
Practical hiking tips
Hiking shoes recommended — the trail can be muddy after rain. Bring a light raincoat and a warm layer: altitude and mist quickly lower the temperature. Sunscreen remains essential despite the clouds.
Carry enough water (at least 1L per person) and a picnic to enjoy a break in the middle of nature. Picnic tables are available near the start.
Easy to moderate level. Accessible to families with children from age 6. Low elevation gain. Duration: 1h30 to 3h.
Nearby: don’t miss
Bourg-Murat is the ideal starting point for several other highland wonders. The Cité du Volcan (interactive museum) is 2 minutes away by van — an essential stop before heading up to Piton de la Fournaise. The volcano road then offers an unforgettable spectacle.
A few kilometres away, the Nez de Bœuf viewpoint plunges over the Cirque de Cilaos from 2,200 metres — a dizzying panorama accessible by van.
Morning: botanical trail. Midday: picnic and Cité du Volcan. Afternoon: climb to the Pas de Bellecombe for sunset over the volcano.
In the highlands of Réunion, every trail is an open-air botany lesson.
— The Location Van La Réunion teamExplore the highlands from your van
Our vans are equipped for nights at altitude. Perfect for setting off at dawn towards the highland trails.
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