GR R2 — La GrandeTraversée
140KM
10.0kM
12d
The GR R2 is a legendary long-distance trail that traverses the French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean from north to south. It is widely considered one of the most physically demanding GR trails in the French network due to its extreme verticality and tropical environment. The route crosses the three massive 'Cirques' (natural amphitheaters), climbs the highest peak in the Indian Ocean (Piton des Neiges, 3070m), and borders the active volcanic zone of Piton de la Fournaise.
Mission Directive / X-Factor
“The scale of the Cirques. Dropping into Cirque de Mafate—the only place on the island accessible only by foot or helicopter—is a transition into a isolated volcanic environment. The sheer basalt walls rising thousands of meters above small villages (known as 'îlets') represent a significant geological feature.”
Hazard Assessment
The trail features relentless, steep climbs and descents on slippery volcanic rock.
MITIGATION: Sturdy boots and trekking poles are mandatory to protect knees and prevent slips.
During the wet season (Jan-March), the island is prone to tropical cyclones and landslides.
MITIGATION: Strictly avoid hiking during cyclone season; check Météo-France reports religiously.
Critical Loadout
Water Logistics
HIKING
PATHWAY
reunion-island // hiking
St Denis to Mafate
The northern ascent into the heart of the island. Crossing the Plaine des Chicots and dropping into the roadless Cirque de Mafate.
Cilaos & Piton des Neiges
Traversing the rugged Cirque de Cilaos known for its mountain peaks and lentils. Climbing to the roof of the Indian Ocean for a sunrise summit.
The Volcano (Piton de la Fournaise)
Crossing the Plaine des Cafres and entering the lunar landscape of the active volcano zone. Red sand and black lava fields.
Southern Descent
Dropping down through lush primary forests to the wild coast of Basse-Terre near Saint-Philippe.
| Step | Sector / Waypoint | Dist. | Gain (↑m) | Duration | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | St Denis to Mafate The northern ascent into the heart of th... | 4 Days | --- | 4 Days | Standard Segment |
| 2 | Cilaos & Piton des Neiges Traversing the rugged Cirque de Cilaos k... | 3 Days | --- | 3 Days | Standard Segment |
| 3 | The Volcano (Piton de la Fournaise) Crossing the Plaine des Cafres and enter... | 3 Days | --- | 3 Days | Standard Segment |
| 4 | Southern Descent Dropping down through lush primary fores... | 2 Days | --- | 2 Days | Standard Segment |
Technical Specifications
DOC_REF: GOLDEN_HIKING_RE_001Refuge Capacity
Mountain refuges and village gites (lodges) provide bunk beds and meals. Camping is allowed only in designated areas near gites.
Regulatory
- Permit NONE
- Authority ONF / Parc National
No permit for walking, but booking gites (lodges) months in advance is critical. Camping is restricted.
Climatology
- OptimalMay, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
May to October is the austral winter—cool and dry. July/August is peak French holiday season.
Emergency / Comms
- Rescue (EU) 112 ACTIVE
- Signal Decent
Compare With Other Hikes
Side-by-side metric analysis. Compare GR R2 — La Grande Traversée directly against similar routes ÔÇö distance, elevation gain, HikeMetrics Hazard Score, and more.
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