Savane des Pétrifications
Explore a unique, ancient volcanic landscape with stark beauty, cacti, and dramatic coastal views leading to a secluded beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Savane des Pétrifications
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique, ancient volcanic landscape with stark beauty, cacti, and dramatic coastal views leading to a secluded beach.
"A geological wonder with unique landscapes and rewarding coastal hikes."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Savane is hot with little shade. Stay hydrated on your hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Expect rocky terrain and potential water crossings. Good shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Coastal Views
Cliffs overlooking the ocean
Witness breathtaking panoramas of the ocean crashing against rugged cliffs. A truly unique geological wonder.
Unique Desert-like Landscape
The Savane itself
Explore an ancient volcanic area with a stark, almost lunar terrain dotted with cacti.
Secluded Tropical Beach
End of the hiking trail
Discover a hidden gem of a beach, a tropical paradise rewarding your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Heat and Terrain
Navigating to the Savane
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Savane is hot with little shade. Stay hydrated on your hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Expect rocky terrain and potential water crossings. Good shoes are a must.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for this exposed landscape.
🗺️ Navigate Wisely
Google Maps can be unreliable; head to Grande Anse de Salines for better access.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Savane is hot with little shade. Stay hydrated on your hike!
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Expect rocky terrain and potential water crossings. Good shoes are a must.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for this exposed landscape.
🗺️ Navigate Wisely
Google Maps can be unreliable; head to Grande Anse de Salines for better access.
🌊 Be Ready for Water Crossings
You might need to wade through shallow water to continue your journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Savane des Pétrifications for its unique, almost lunar landscape and stunning coastal views, calling it a must-visit for its dramatic scenery and rewarding hike. However, some find it less spectacular than other island hikes and note the intense heat and challenging terrain, including water crossings.
"Great hiking spot, be warned that Google maps will send you up the wrong road to get here. Go to Grande Anse de Salines and take the road to the end. Trail is an easy hike to the peak of a cliff over looking the ocean and the crashing seas. Bring water, prepare to wade a small oasis to continue the trail. Can get hot. Definitely a must to visit, plus if you have the time, continue the walk to the beach at the end of the trail and be rewarded with a very tropical paradise beach."
Jonathan Jacobs
"Great hike through the flat and rocky terrain, which takes you to a beautiful beach.
The walk is about 5km from start to end and back, make sure to bring sunscreen and enough water to stay hydrated 👌"
Kenzo Milleville
"Fantastic hike. Be prepared to hop on rocks or wave in waist deep water too cross the estuary at times. No elevation gain on this hike. We parked at the beach, which adds 30 minutes to reach it but where there's more parking"
Valérie Lent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While Google Maps can be unreliable, the best approach is to drive to Grande Anse de Salines and follow the road to its end, where you'll find parking and the trailhead.
This route is often recommended by visitors to avoid getting lost.Yes, parking is available at Grande Anse de Salines, which is the recommended starting point for accessing the Savane. This area tends to have more parking than other potential access points.
Public transport options to this specific remote area can be limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car for easier access and flexibility.
The most common and recommended access point for the hiking trails is from the Grande Anse de Salines beach. From there, you can follow the coastal path.
While some parts might be cyclable, the terrain can be rocky and may involve water crossings, making it more challenging for cycling. It's primarily known as a hiking destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are typically no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Savane des Pétrifications. It's a natural landscape open for exploration.
As a natural outdoor area, the Savane des Pétrifications is generally accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee for the hiking trails within the Savane des Pétrifications. Access to this natural wonder is free.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the lack of lighting, uneven terrain, and potential safety concerns. Stick to daylight hours for the best experience.
While not always advertised, local guides may be available, especially if you inquire in the Sainte-Anne area. This can enhance your understanding of the geology and history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally described as easy to moderate, with flat terrain but rocky paths and occasional shallow water crossings. It's about 5km round trip from the beach.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat.
Facilities are very limited in the Savane itself. It's best to use restrooms at Grande Anse de Salines before you start your hike and carry all the water you'll need.
The hike can be manageable for families, but the rocky terrain and potential water crossings might be challenging for very young children. Supervision is key.
This area is an ancient eroded volcano, estimated to be around 22 to 30 million years old, showcasing unique geological formations shaped by erosion.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic coastal cliffs, the unique desert-like landscape with cacti, and the secluded beach. The golden hour light is particularly stunning.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating beautiful shadows and colors.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural parks and coastal areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright sun and enhance the ocean's colors.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are scarce. The unique, almost desert-like landscape and the reward of a beautiful beach at the end make it a memorable experience. Visiting in the cooler parts of the day, like early morning, is advisable to avoid the peak heat.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time. Carry sufficient water, sun protection, and a fully charged phone. The unique geological formations and the solitude can make for a deeply personal and memorable experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scenery and a polarizing filter to manage the bright Caribbean sun and enhance the ocean's colors. The secluded beach at the end of the trail also provides a picturesque reward for your photographic endeavors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Marvel of Martinique
The landscape is characterized by its rocky, arid terrain, dotted with resilient cacti and other drought-resistant plants. This arid environment is a direct result of the erosion and the island's microclimate. Exploring the Savane offers a glimpse into a different facet of Martinique's natural heritage, showcasing its diverse geological history and the powerful forces of nature that have shaped it.
This unique environment is not just visually striking but also scientifically significant, offering insights into the island's formation and evolution. It's a reminder that the Caribbean is more than just beaches; it's a region with diverse and fascinating natural landscapes waiting to be discovered.
The Hiking Experience
Visitors are advised to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, as the rocky ground can be uneven. Light, breathable clothing is also recommended due to the intense sun and lack of shade. The experience is often enhanced by the possibility of encountering shallow water crossings, which adds an element of adventure. It's crucial to bring ample water to stay hydrated throughout the hike, as temperatures can soar.
The reward for this trek is not only the unique landscape but also the stunning coastal views and the eventual arrival at a beautiful, secluded tropical beach. This combination of rugged terrain and idyllic beach makes the Savane des Pétrifications a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit