Our trip to Réunion (on the GR R2 and around the island) ended on a high with the superb Trou de Fer viewpoint. After exploring the cirques and the legendary trails of the island, this spectacular gorge was the icing on the cake. I still remember the excitement of reaching the lookout and hoping the weather would hold. Luckily the clouds cleared, and we had an incredible panorama of the waterfalls plunging into the gorge. The Trou de Fer makes you feel the raw power of nature, and reminds you how fragile it is. In this guide, I explain how to reach this impressive spot and share my tips for making the most of it.
The short version: the Trou de Fer is a 725 m waterfall in the Bélouve forest, and the best way to see it is on foot. There are two routes. The shorter one starts at the Gîte de Bélouve and takes 3 to 4 hours return (9.3 km, about 230 m of climb). From Hell-Bourg, the longer one takes 6 to 8 hours (17 km, +955 m). Whichever you pick, leave early, because mist builds up fast. Each route is explained step by step below.
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What is the Trou de Fer viewpoint?
The Trou de Fer is a natural wonder in the Bélouve forest, in the heart of Réunion. It is a gigantic gorge more than 300 metres deep, formed by a geological depression in the Piton des Neiges massif. The waterfalls that pour into it make the place so spectacular. The main fall, fed by the Bras de Caverne, drops 725 metres in several leaps.
Standing in front of the gorge, you feel wonder and vertigo at the same time. The site is ranked among the most beautiful waterfalls on the island. And it is also the highest waterfall in France. Beyond its grandeur, the Trou de Fer is a fragile ecosystem. It is protected within the Réunion National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The gorge is not open to the public, except to canyoning experts, but there are several ways to admire it. You can walk there, fly over the site by helicopter, or simply look at photos. Whichever you choose, the Trou de Fer will not leave you indifferent.
Trou de Fer panorama: a grand spectacle
When I reached the lookout, I was facing a scene that, to be honest, goes beyond words. The panorama over the Trou de Fer is simply striking. Picture a dizzying gorge framed by steep cliffs covered in lush vegetation, with powerful waterfalls pouring down. The highest of them, fed by the Bras de Caverne, falls with a raw force that echoes down the valley.
What struck me was the contrast between the stillness of the plants and the constant movement of the water, which creates a kind of wild harmony.
The lookout has been built to give a clear view. And the path leading to it is dotted with small wooden bridges, which add charm to the hike. With some luck, like us, you will see it under a clear sky. Even with a little mist, the Trou de Fer keeps its mystical aura.
How to reach the Trou de Fer panorama
There are several ways to approach the Trou de Fer, but they are not all equal. Personally, I recommend hiking, because it lets you take in the whole environment. If you prefer something quicker, or want a different point of view, a helicopter flight remains possible.
On foot
For me, this is clearly the best way to discover the Trou de Fer. The most popular trail starts at the Gîte de Bélouve, a mountain lodge in the primary forest of the same name. The hike is about 10 km return. It crosses lush vegetation made of tamarins des Hauts, giant ferns and many endemic species. The trail is well marked and the climb is moderate (around 300 metres), although some sections can be slippery in the rainy season. Allow about 3 hours for the round trip, taking time to enjoy the scenery.
There is also a variant, the École Normale trail, which makes a 12 km loop for hikers who want to go further.
By helicopter
I have to admit that flying over the Trou de Fer by helicopter can look tempting, especially for an overview of this impressive gorge. Personally, though, I do not recommend it. The environmental impact is real: noise pollution, CO2 emissions and disturbance to local wildlife. Réunion is also full of incredible trails, and nothing beats the effort and immersion of a hike. If you still choose this option, flights usually leave from Saint-Gilles or Saint-Pierre. They often include a flight over the three cirques (Mafate, Salazie and Cilaos).
A few tips for the hike
- Set off early in the morning to improve your chances of a clear sky, because mist tends to build up quickly during the day.
- Bring good walking shoes, as the paths can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Take food and water with you: there is no drinking water point on the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving, and ask the ONF (the French forestry office) about any trail closures.
Trou de Fer hike from Hell-Bourg: an immersive and demanding day
- Distance: about 17 km return (or nearly 19.4 km as a loop if you vary the route a little).
- Average time: between 6 and 8 hours, depending on your pace and the exact route.
- Elevation: +955 m / -955 m.
Starting point
The Trou de Fer hike starts right in the charming village of Hell-Bourg, in the heart of the cirque de Salazie. Access is simple, with a car park near the town hall annex. Once parked, walk to Rue Edmond Fontaine, which leads to the start of the trail. From the first steps, you are in a tropical setting, surrounded by lush vegetation.
The climb to the Gîte de Bélouve
The trail climbs quickly through dense forest, typical of Salazie. The first kilometres alternate between concrete sections and paths lined with bamboo and filao trees. Although steep, the hairpins offer several natural rests with fine views of the Piton d’Anchaing and the surrounding waterfalls. Some slightly technical parts have handrails and cables to help you progress. The climb is demanding, yet it is one of the best introductions to hiking in Réunion.
A break at the Gîte de Bélouve
The gîte sits at almost 1,500 m of altitude and is an ideal stop to recharge. With its spectacular view over Salazie, it is a perfect place for a break. If you need drinking water, or just fancy a picnic, this is the place to do it before you carry on.
Towards the Trou de Fer lookout
From the gîte, the trail leads you through the Bélouve primary forest. The vegetation changes here, revealing giant tree ferns and tamarins des Hauts. The path can get muddy, but many sections have wooden boardwalks with mesh to help you along. You can take either the École Normale trail or the Allée Cavalière. Both routes lead to the famous Trou de Fer lookout.
The lookout
Arriving at the viewpoint is a moment of pure wonder. Imagine yourself facing a gorge 300 m deep, where the Bras de Caverne waterfall rushes down with power. If the sky is clear, you will see one of the most impressive landscapes in Réunion. Arrive early, before clouds hide the view.
The way back
For the return, you have two main options: take the same path back, or finish with a loop via the Plateau Cochons and the Grande Mare. The loop adds variety, with different landscapes and fewer people.
Highlights of this hike
Total immersion
The Bélouve primary forest is a genuine dive into a preserved world. Sounds, smells and even the light filtered by the trees create a calm and restorative atmosphere.
An accessible challenge
Although it is classed as difficult, this hike is doable for anyone used to long walks. The effort is rewarded by stunning views.
An unforgettable panorama
The Trou de Fer lookout is clearly the highlight. But every stage of the hike holds its share of visual surprises.
Practical tips
- Equipment: Bring sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. A pair of poles can also help on the steep and muddy sections.
- Timing: Start early in the morning to improve your chances of a clear sky.
- Respect for the environment: Take all your rubbish with you and stay on the marked trails to protect this fragile ecosystem.
- Water and food: Take at least 2 L of water and a few energy snacks. A picnic break at the Gîte de Bélouve is a great idea.
Trou de Fer hike from the Gîte de Bélouve: the shorter route
- Distance: about 9.3 km return (you can extend it with loops).
- Average time: 3 to 4 hours return.
- Elevation gain: about 230 m.
Starting point
The hike starts right at the Gîte de Bélouve, at the edge of the primary forest, in a lovely setting. You can reach the gîte by car on the Bébour-Bélouve forest road. If you arrive early, you can enjoy a clear view over the cirque de Salazie from the gîte lookout before setting off.
Starting on the Allée Cavalière
The hike begins on a pleasant track known as the Allée Cavalière. This wide, flat path is lined with tamarins des Hauts and tree ferns. The mood is calm and soothing, perfect for warming up before entering the primary forest. You can make a short stop to admire the “Reine des Tamarins”, a three-hundred-year-old tree that is impressive for its size and its story.
Through the primary forest
After the track, the path narrows and dives into dense tropical forest. Wooden mesh boardwalks help you cross the muddy sections, which are frequent, especially after rain. This part of the route is magical: ancient trees, lichens and ferns make a living, preserved setting. At every bend, you feel as if you are walking in a place outside time.
Arriving at the Trou de Fer lookout
The path leads to the famous wooden lookout above the Trou de Fer gorge. This is where the show becomes truly striking. In front of you, a dizzying drop of more than 300 m plunges into a canyon covered in vegetation. In clear weather, you can see the different falls that make up the Bras de Caverne. The weather changes fast at Bélouve, though. So it is essential to leave early in the morning to get a clear view.
Back to the Gîte de Bélouve
You return by the same path, but you can vary it slightly using alternative trails such as the École Normale trail or the Plateau Cochons. These options add some distance, but they give extra views of the forest and the Grande Mare.
Highlights of this hike
- Easy access: Starting at the Gîte de Bélouve shortens the hike and reduces the climb, which makes it accessible for families and occasional hikers.
- A rare primary forest: Crossing this dense forest is worth the trip in itself, with exceptional biodiversity and green landscapes.
- A spectacular view: The Trou de Fer lookout is one of the most impressive panoramas in Réunion.
Respecting this preserved environment: a necessity
The Trou de Fer is not only a spectacular place. It is a fragile space, at the heart of a unique ecosystem. In Réunion, the management of natural sites relies on visitors and the environment living side by side.
Good habits to adopt
- Take your rubbish with you: Even biodegradable waste can disturb wildlife or make life harder for the local teams.
- Stay on the marked trails: It may seem harmless. But walking off the path directly damages the vegetation and speeds up soil erosion.
- Respect the peace of the place: The sounds of nature are part of the experience, so avoid unnecessary noise.
A thought on helicopter flights
Some people choose to see the Trou de Fer from the air on helicopter flights. These flights give a different perspective, but they also raise questions about ecological and noise impact. For our part, we prefer to discover these places on foot, taking the time to soak up the environment.
Which Trou de Fer hike should you choose?
Choose the Gîte de Bélouve route if you have half a day, travel with family, or want a gentler hike. The climb is smaller, and the Allée Cavalière is wide and flat. Choose the Hell-Bourg route if you want a full day in the mountains. It is demanding, but you cross the whole forest and can finish with a loop via the Plateau Cochons and the Grande Mare. In both cases, plan your day around the weather, because the view is only worth the walk under a clear sky.
Trou de Fer hike: frequently asked questions
Can you go down into the Trou de Fer?
No. The gorge is not open to the public, except to canyoning experts. Most visitors admire it from the wooden lookout at the end of the trail.
How long does the hike take?
From the Gîte de Bélouve, count 3 to 4 hours return. From Hell-Bourg, count 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and the exact route.
What is the best time of day to see the Trou de Fer?
Early morning. Mist tends to settle quickly during the day. And the weather changes fast at Bélouve, so a clear view is most likely at the start of the day.
Is there drinking water on the trail?
There is no drinking water point on the trail itself. The Gîte de Bélouve is the place to ask for water. Take at least 2 L with you, plus a few energy snacks.
What should you wear for the Trou de Fer hike?
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, because the paths can be muddy, especially after rain. Poles can help on steep and muddy sections. Check the forecast, and ask the ONF about trail closures before you leave.
Should you fly over the gorge by helicopter?
We do not recommend it. Flights add noise, CO2 emissions and disturbance to wildlife. Réunion has plenty of trails, and a hike gives a much stronger sense of the place.
To sum up, the Trou de Fer is worth the effort, whatever route you choose. Go early, stay on the marked trails, take your rubbish home. And let the weather decide how long you stay at the lookout. Planning a longer trip? Our Reunion Island holidays itinerary shows where the Trou de Fer fits in 10 days.