Col du Taïbit
A challenging mountain pass offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Cirque de Mafate, ideal for fit hikers and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat heat & clouds
Col du Taïbit
Best Time
Beat heat & clouds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging mountain pass offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Cirque de Mafate, ideal for fit hikers and nature lovers.
"This hike is always great. Impressive view of Mafate."
Start Early! ☀️
Set off before 8 AM to avoid heat and potential cloud cover.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
Lots of steps and technical terrain require good footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mafate View
Summit of Col du Taïbit
Breathtaking vistas of the Cirque de Mafate, a truly magical sight.
Challenging Ascent
Trail from Cilaos
A demanding yet rewarding climb with impressive elevation gain.
+1
Trail to Marla
Descent towards Marla
A superb trail leading to the charming village of Marla.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Fitness and Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start Early! ☀️
Set off before 8 AM to avoid heat and potential cloud cover.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
Lots of steps and technical terrain require good footwear.
Pack Water & Snacks :water_wave:
It's a long and strenuous hike, so stay hydrated and fueled.
Consider a Guide :man_detective:
For beginners, a guide can enhance safety and understanding.
Tips
from all over the internet
Start Early! ☀️
Set off before 8 AM to avoid heat and potential cloud cover.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
Lots of steps and technical terrain require good footwear.
Pack Water & Snacks :water_wave:
It's a long and strenuous hike, so stay hydrated and fueled.
Consider a Guide :man_detective:
For beginners, a guide can enhance safety and understanding.
Bivouac Option :tent:
Some hikers enjoy overnight stays, like at Gîte chez Jimmy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views of Mafate from Col du Taïbit, calling the trek 'magical' and 'impressive.' The challenging nature of the hike is acknowledged, with many highlighting the significant elevation gain and numerous steps. While tough, the rewarding scenery and sense of accomplishment make it a highly recommended experience for fit hikers.
"You have to be fit and set off in time before the trade wind clouds roll in. After 2 to 2.5 hours at the top, you'll have a fantastic view."
Dr. Dee
"A long hike to Mafate...magical"
YES
"This hike is always great. Impressive view of Mafate.
Lots of steps, so beginners should be careful."
Treju F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Col du Taïbit is typically accessed from Cilaos. The hike itself is the primary way to reach it, often as part of a trek to Mafate.
Public transport options are limited directly to the trailhead. Most visitors arrange transport to Cilaos and then begin their hike.
No, Col du Taïbit is a mountain pass accessible only by foot. You'll need to hike from nearby towns like Cilaos.
Most hikers begin their ascent from Cilaos, following marked trails. Starting early is highly recommended.
Parking is available in Cilaos, the closest town to the start of the hike. Be prepared for limited parking during peak seasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Col du Taïbit. It's a natural mountain pass.
Col du Taïbit is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly advised for safety.
The dry season (May to October) is generally preferred for hiking due to better weather conditions and clearer views.
Yes, guided tours are available and can be a great option for those seeking more information or safety, especially for beginners.
No specific permits are required for hiking Col du Taïbit itself, but if you plan to camp or stay in refuges, booking in advance is essential.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 4 to 7 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the summit.
It's considered a challenging hike with significant elevation gain and many steps, requiring good physical fitness.
You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Cirque de Mafate and surrounding mountains.
Facilities are scarce on the trail itself. It's best to carry all your water and snacks. Some gîtes in Marla offer services.
While many hike solo, it's recommended to inform someone of your plans and carry a fully charged phone. Trails can be technical.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft light and clearer skies, while late afternoon provides golden hour hues.
Capture sweeping landscapes of Mafate, dramatic mountain vistas, and the challenging trail itself.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramas, but a standard zoom can also work well.
The summit offers the most iconic viewpoints. Look for clearings along the trail for unique perspectives.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural parks. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a more accessible experience with stunning mountain views, exploring the trails around Cilaos or other less demanding routes on Réunion Island might be a better fit. However, for adventurous families who are well-prepared, the journey to Col du Taïbit can be an unforgettable family achievement, offering a true taste of Réunion's wild interior.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts & Trail Runners
The varied terrain, from rocky paths to steep steps, offers a dynamic running or hiking experience. Many Instagram reels showcase the speed and endurance required to conquer this pass. +1For trail runners, the route from Cilaos to Mafate via Col du Taïbit is a classic. It's often part of longer ultra-marathon training or even featured in local races.
The opportunity to combine a strenuous physical challenge with breathtaking natural beauty makes it a highly sought-after location. Remember to pack light but efficiently, carrying essentials for hydration and energy, as support is minimal on the trail. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1 The dramatic landscape, with its rugged peaks and deep valleys, offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning shots. Beyond the grand vistas, the trail itself presents opportunities to photograph unique flora and fauna, as well as the challenging path winding through the mountains.
Early starts are crucial not only for the best light but also to avoid the trade wind clouds that can quickly obscure the views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Trek to Mafate
+1Reaching the summit of Col du Taïbit offers a profound sense of accomplishment, amplified by the stunning reward: a breathtaking panoramic view of Mafate. This view is frequently cited as a highlight, with travelers describing it as 'magical' and 'impressive.'
For those planning this trek, preparation is key. Good physical condition, appropriate footwear, and ample supplies are non-negotiable. The weather can change rapidly, with trade winds often bringing clouds by midday, underscoring the importance of an early start.
Navigating the Terrain and Weather
+1 The trail can be technical in places, requiring good balance and sure-footedness. Proper hiking boots are essential to navigate the rocky and uneven surfaces safely. Réunion's microclimates mean that weather conditions can change swiftly. The trade winds, prevalent in the afternoons, can bring clouds that obscure the spectacular views.
Despite the challenges, the effort is consistently described as worthwhile. The 'majestic, tough and technical climb' is balanced by the 'fantastic view' and the 'magical' experience of reaching Mafate.
The sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled natural beauty make Col du Taïbit a memorable adventure for those prepared for its demands. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit