Begin your adventure with an early morning drive to Maïdo, a viewpoint perched at 2,200 meters above sea level. As you ascend, watch as the Highland Mountain Acacias Forest gradually gives way to high-altitude vegetation, including ambaville shrubs, yellow wildflowers, and mountain heather.

Arrive at the Maïdo lookout and take in the dramatic views of the Mafate Cirque.

Continue your journey along the famous Grand Bord Trail, named for the ridgeline that runs along the edge of the Mafate cliffs. As you progress, the imposing Piton des Neiges massif gradually reveals itself.

About halfway along the trail, the summit of Piton des Neiges comes into view. Frequent stops are well worth it, allowing you to admire the depths of Mafate and landmarks such as Trois Roches, Marla, and the surrounding highlands.

Reach the summit of Grand Bénare, marked by a large white cross, and take in the breathtaking panorama over both the Mafate and Cilaos cirques. Within the Cilaos Cirque, the village of Cilaos is clearly visible. On clear days, you can even spot the island's volcano rising beyond the cirque's towering walls.