If you're up early on a Tuesday or Saturday, this group hike from Le Maïdo is a classic for a reason. The Grand Bord trail runs along the rim of Mafate, giving you sweeping views of the cirque at sunrise — cloud-free if you’re lucky. The start is gentle, almost flat, with high-altitude endemic shrubs all around and panoramic drop-offs on your left.

You’ll walk a good stretch before descending toward La Glacière, a rocky, shaded ravine where ice was once harvested and hauled down to Saint-Paul in the days before refrigeration. It’s a little-known bit of Réunion history most visitors never hear about.

The terrain is 12 km with about 500m of ascent, mostly rocky but not technical. It’s a steady pace with a French-speaking guide, so conversational French is a must. You’ll need to pack your own water (2L+), snacks, and rain gear, but the group gets a local snack, drink, and lunch stop included.

👉 Local tip: The Maïdo road opens very early — aim to arrive just before sunrise for the best photo light before you meet the group.