Piton de la Fournaise is an active shield volcano located on Réunion Island, renowned for its frequent eruptions and dramatic landscapes that appeal to adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Piton de la Fournaise, meaning 'Peak of the Furnace', is situated on Réunion Island, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean. As one of the world's most active volcanoes, it stands at an elevation of 2,632 meters (8,635 feet) and offers a unique volcanic landscape characterized by craters, lava flows, and ash fields. The geological activity has shaped an environment that supports a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. Historically, Piton de la Fournaise has been erupting frequently with varying intensity, providing scientists with rich data on volcanic activity. For visitors, it provides a dramatic backdrop for hiking, offering trails that lead through alien-like landscapes to panoramic viewpoints over the caldera. The Pas de Bellecombe, an accessible viewing area, allows for safe but spectacular observations of the volcano. Additionally, the region offers significant opportunities for studying ecology and geology, contributing to its educational appeal.
Pas de Bellecombe: A viewpoint offering stunning vistas of the volcano's main crater.
Dolomieu Crater: The most prominent crater, frequently visited by hikers.
Recent Lava Flows: Offers insight into the dynamic volcanic activity and landscape changes.
Enclos Fouqué: A caldera known for its vast, moon-like terrain.
The central crater of Piton de la Fournaise, often steaming and showing signs of activity.
A lookout point providing panoramic views over the volcano and its surrounding landscapes.
An extinct volcanic formation within the Enclos Fouqué caldera, resembling a small cinder cone.