The Journey Begins: A Pre-Dawn Departure

The air was thick with anticipation as we set off from Saint-Leu in the pre-dawn darkness. The city, known for its paragliding spots and the Kelonia turtle clinic, was still asleep, leaving the roads eerily quiet. As we drove along the coast, the rhythmic crashing of the Indian Ocean against the basalt cliffs at Le Gouffre De L’etang-sale was a constant companion, a reminder of nature’s relentless power.

Our journey took us through the city of Le Tampon, a name that seemed to echo the volcanic forces we were about to witness. The road wound its way to the plains of the cafres, where the landscape began to change, hinting at the volcanic majesty that lay ahead. The anticipation was palpable, a familiar feeling for someone like me who has spent years chasing the raw beauty of the polar regions.

Ascending to the Crater: A Dance with Telluric Forces

As we approached the Nez de Boeuf, the first light of dawn began to creep over the horizon, casting a soft glow on the Piton des Neiges and the river of the remparts. The view was breathtaking, a stark reminder of the Earth’s raw power and beauty. It was a scene that could rival the icy vistas of the Arctic, where I had spent countless hours studying the impact of climate change.

Our guide led us to the Commerson Crater, the largest on Reunion Island, its vastness a testament to the island’s tumultuous geological history. Standing at the edge, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the calving glaciers of the polar regions, both landscapes shaped by forces beyond human control.

The final ascent to the Pas de Bellecombe was a journey through a landscape that seemed otherworldly. The telluric forces of the Earth were almost tangible, a reminder of the planet’s ever-changing nature. As we reached the viewpoint, the Piton de la Fournaise loomed before us, its presence both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Breakfast at the Peak: A Moment of Reflection

With the sun now fully risen, we settled down for breakfast at the peak of the furnace. The air was crisp, the silence profound, broken only by the occasional rumble of the volcano. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of the world around us.

As I sipped my coffee, I thought of the countless sunrises I had witnessed in the Arctic, each one a testament to the resilience of life in the harshest of environments. Here, on the peak of a volcano, I felt that same sense of awe and wonder.

The journey back was a time to absorb the experience, to let the memories of the day settle. The telluric forces of the Earth had left their mark, a reminder of the planet’s power and beauty. As we returned to Saint-Leu, I knew this was a journey I would carry with me, a story to share with those who seek the thrill of adventure and the beauty of the natural world.