Cap Noir
A viewpoint on a spur above Mafate reached by a short forest walk from the Roche Ecrite road.
Updated 2 September 2026
Cap Noir is a rock spur projecting into the northern side of the Cirque de Mafate, reached by a walk of about half an hour from a car park on the Roche Écrite road, through cryptomeria and tamarin forest. From the platform at the end the cirque opens up with the ilets of Aurère and Îlet à Malheur visible below and the ridges running away west. A longer route continues to the Roche Verre Bouteille viewpoint.
What's there
- The spur platform - a viewing point projecting into the cirque.
- The northern ilets - Aurere and Ilet à Malheur visible on the floor below.
- The forest walk - the approach through cryptomeria and tamarin.
- The Roche Verre Bouteille - the further viewpoint along the ridge.
When to go
May to November is the dry season. Early morning is the only reliable window before cloud fills the cirque. The path is muddy after rain.
What to expect
Cloud closes the view by mid-morning on most days. The path is slippery and the drop from the platform is unfenced in places. Parking at the trailhead is limited.
Nearby
La Roche Ecrite is above, and Saint-Denis is north.
What to pack for Cap Noir
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
- Spare batteries + cards - Cold and long shoots drain power; never run out at the good light. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A compact tripod - Essential for night skies, aurora, waterfalls and low light. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
