Route du Volcan is the only road that takes you all the way to the rim of Piton de la Fournaise. Even if you’re not hiking, this drive is worth doing on its own — it’s one of the most scenic in La Réunion and completely changes character along the way.

You start in Bourg-Murat, among damp meadows and grazing cattle, then climb through tamarind forest and misty pastureland until it opens into wild, rust-red volcanic plains. The final stretch, known as the Plaine des Sables, looks like Mars — flat, barren, dusty, and surreal. You’ll pass Nez de Bœuf viewpoint before descending onto the plain.

At the very end is Pas de Bellecombe, where the road stops and the volcano views begin.

The road is narrow, potholed in places, and can get foggy fast. Drive early in the day for the clearest skies and lowest traffic. It’s all paved, but not suited to nervous drivers or large campers.

👉 Local tip: If you’re self-driving, stop for coffee and pastries at Chez Grondin before heading up — there’s nothing to buy once you’re on the volcano road.