Saut du Gendarme
A small waterfall beside the mountain road at Fonds-Saint-Denis, reached in two minutes.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Saut du Gendarme is a fall of a few metres on a stream beside the mountain road above Fonds-Saint-Denis, with a short path and steps down to a pool at the base and a picnic area beside the parking. It takes two minutes to reach, which is why it appears on every itinerary despite being modest, and the surrounding forest is thick and green. A longer trail towards the Pitons du Carbet starts from the same point.
What's there
- The fall - a drop of a few metres into a pool beside the road.
- The short path - steps down from the parking taking two minutes.
- The forest - dense green woodland enclosing the stream.
- The trailhead - the longer route towards the Pitons leaving from here.
When to go
December to April is drier with better footing. The fall runs strongest after rain. Weekends bring local picnickers.
Practical notes
The waterfall is small and five minutes covers it. The pool is shallow and not really swimmable. Parking on the roadside is tight and the road is narrow.
Nearby
Fonds-Saint-Denis is above, and Saint-Pierre is west.
What to pack for Saut du Gendarme
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
- Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
