The east of the island and its large, preserved spaces are an ideal playground for those who like to sleep under the stars.

Bivouac is authorized within the perimeter of the heart of the Réunion National Park, except in the forest of Mare Longue and in the cliffs of Piton des Neiges.

However, certain rules must be observed: 

  • Don't make a campfire (the stove can be used, as well as the masonry fire places and furnished), bring back all your waste (same biodegradable: they are likely to encourage the proliferation of rats, constituting a threat to birds and plants native).
  • Leave the site as you found it.

Some recommendations:

  • No harm must be caused to the fauna and flora;
  • The circulation of motor vehicles is prohibited outside of roads classified in the public road domain of the State, departments and municipalities, rural roads and private roads open to the public circulation of motor vehicles, with a view to ensure the protection of natural spaces.
  • Parking of vehicles is authorized exclusively on places open to public parking.
  • Respect other users by maintaining calm and tranquility.

Now that you know everything about this type of accommodation, we offer you three exceptional spots where you can pitch your tent or hammock, to enjoy the calm and let yourself be dazzled by the beauty of the Eastern landscapes.

1 • The Piton des Neiges:
sleep on the highest peak of the island, and even of the Indian Ocean

best
Hikers on the Piton des Neiges trail

Culminating at 3 meters above sea level, the roof of Reunion Island is a bivouac spot that nature lovers dream of. The ascent of Piton des Neiges is intended to be as legendary as it is challenging. Bivouac can therefore be an excellent way to regain strength before continuing your journey. Especially at sunrise, the 071-degree view is breathtaking, with the first rays lighting up the mountains and illuminating the cirques. It would be a shame not to take advantage of it! You can therefore take your equipment with you and stop once you have found the perfect spot to spend the night in total autonomy. Check your equipment carefully before departure because, although the bivouac offers great freedom, it cannot be improvised. Temperatures can drop quickly during this hike. So you shouldn't be surprised by the cold!

Please note, it is recommended to bring sufficient water, as there is no water point at Piton des Neiges.


2 • The Grand Etang:
bivouac at Jurassic Park

Great Pond happens to be one of the rare lakes on the island, and above all the only one of volcanic origin! It changes face depending on the seasons. During periods of heavy rain, the waterfalls of Bras d'Annette take on their most beautiful white coats. However, the path, which allows you to go around it, can turn into a real mud pit. In dry weather, the level of the lake drops and it becomes easy to enjoy the different viewpoints that the spot offers. Either way, no matter the time of year, the spectacle will delight you, and some like to compare it to the sets of the famous film Jurassic Park. And to make the most of it, why not pitch your tent for a night? Around the lake there are a few kiosks, tables of picnic and places to light a fire. The tranquility of the place is conducive to meditation and letting go.

Grand Etang in Saint-Benoît

3 • Eden Park:
the ideal spot to see the sun rise on the East Coast

At the end of the road Panon arm Eden Park is revealed, an exceptional site which was once a tea estate. The forest road has several rest areas and ends at a trail. After only about twenty minutes of walking, you will come across kiosks with places to make a fire. An ideal place to pitch your tent and enjoy the place! Because it must be said that once you reach the end of the journey, you only have one desire:
relax and admire the view. Settling down for the night seems like a perfect solution, especially to enjoy the spot at sunrise. We can then head back towards the Chien waterfall or towards Bélouve (for serious athletes!)


For more information, we invite you to read the article on the regulations of the Réunion National Park, here !

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David

About David

Lovers of Eastern Reunion Island.

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