How to get by car to Commerson Crater on Reunion Island?
France, europe
24.3 km
2,328 m
moderate
Year-round
# Cratère Commerson: A High-Altitude Adventure on Réunion Island
Ready for an epic drive? Cratère Commerson is a stunning volcanic crater sitting pretty at 2,328m (7,637ft) on the eastern side of Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean. The crater's named after Philibert Commerson, a French explorer who clearly made an impression back in the day.
The route to get there—Route Forestière 5 du Volcan, aka Volcano Road—is a fully paved 24.3km (15.09 miles) stretch that climbs from N3 Road all the way west to Pas de Bellecombe, a dramatic mountain pass at 2,361m (7,746ft). Fair warning: this road is steep, so you'll definitely feel the elevation gain as you ascend.
Here's what you need to know before you go: The lava fields create an intense reflective glare on sunny days, which can absolutely wreck your skin, so pack a seriously good hat and sunscreen. Weather changes fast up here—visibility can drop to nothing in minutes when storms roll in, so keep your schedule flexible and don't push it in iffy conditions. Plus, this is a rainfall hotspot, especially during tropical storm season, so check forecasts before heading up.
It's an unforgettable drive through some seriously otherworldly volcanic landscape. Just be prepared and respectful of the mountain's moods.
Where is it?
How to get by car to Commerson Crater on Reunion Island? is located in France (europe). Coordinates: 44.3226, 2.6638
Road Details
- Country
- France
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 24.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,328 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 44.3226, 2.6638
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