tahiti waterfall tour

Complete Guide for Fautaua Waterfall Hike in Fautaua Valley (2024)

If you are in Tahiti and looking for an exhilarating adventure, consider visiting one of the most incredible waterfalls, Fautaua Waterfall. This hike will take you through island’s flourishing interior and was one of my favorite excursions while visiting Tahiti! Here is everything you should know before embarking on the Fautaua Waterfall Hike in Fautaua Valley.

What Is the Tallest Waterfall in Tahiti?

French Polynesia’s largest island, Tahiti, offers an array of activities to visitors . Everything from amazing surf to snorkeling over deserted wrecks in the ocean. And while you likely think of the pristine blue waters and overwater bungalows when you envision Tahiti and her islands, Tahiti is also home to several waterfalls. Standing at about 443 ft in Fautaua Valley is Tahiti’s tallest and most impressive waterfall. Amongst locals, the waterfall is more commonly referred to as Cascade de Fachoda . But, for the purposes of this post, I’ll be referring to with the translate name, Fautaua Waterfall.

Fautaua Waterfall Hike: What to Do Prior

Prior to starting the hike, you will need to get a permit that authorizes you to be on the trail. Don’t fret though, you can easily obtain the permit on the day of your hike as long as you’re not planning to do the hike on the weekend. The permit costs 600 francs (~$6) per person , so it’s a great, affordable activity that keeps costs down for your Tahiti trip ! All you need to do is head to city hall, commonly referred to as, “ Mairie de Papeete .” It is located in the center of Papeete. If you are driving yourself there, you’ll have to park on a nearby side street as there is no designated visitor parking.

The building is a gorgeous yellow and resembles a plantation mansion with its wrap-around porches. If you have a few minutes to spare, it is definitely worth spending some time exploring around.

Walk up the stairs, enter the building, and the office you are looking for will be on the right-hand side. Just mention Fautaua Waterfall, and the office people will know what you are asking for. The permit is fairly easy to fill out. You just need to say what date you intend to do the hike, who is going on the hike, the duration of time you expect to be on the trail, and your signature. In case you’re wondering what to put as the duration, my friends and I put 10 am to 5 pm. We didn’t know how long it would take us, but we figured it was best to leave some wiggle room in case we * screw up *. 😅

⏳ NOTE: City Hall is closed on Saturday and Sunday, so make sure you visit during their hours of operation: Monday – Thursday: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm & Friday: 7:30 am – 2:30 pm

Fautaua Waterfall Hike: What to Pack

Since the hike is a bit longer, you will definitely want to carry a small backpack. Here are some of my recommendations for what to pack: 🌿 Lots of Water – This hike is pretty rigorous, so pack at least two big bottles of water. Furthermore, you’ll likely sweat a lot because it’s super humid on the trail, so try to drink water every half hour! 🌿 Snacks – Pack some food to snack on along the way as well as for when you make it to the waterfall. There are big rocks at the bottom and the head of the waterfall that you can lean against while you eat. 🌿 Bug Spray – Unfortunately, with the lush vegetation and flora comes persistent mosquitoes, spiders, and other insects. Put strong bug spray on any exposed skin. 🌿 Light Jacket – Even if you’re hiking during the warmer months, the temperature near the waterfall is much colder. Plus, the ambient temperature drops quickly once the sun dips.

🌿 Lastly, wear good hiking shoes , or beware of the painful blisters that will ensue!! My friends comfortably completed the hike in Chacos sandals . Meanwhile, I was dumb and wore Birkenstocks the entire hike. You might be wondering why you should take advice from someone who would wear Birkenstocks on an arduous hike. I would like to defend myself by saying my best friend, an avid hiker who suggested the trail, told me we would be doing an easy 45-minute trek. 🙃 I should’ve known better, but at least it makes for a fun travel story with gory pictures!

Grab My Packing List!

Want to avoid nasty blisters or emergency runs to the local stores? Consider looking at my useful packing list for Tahiti to find out everything that you should bring. I explain all the essentials and include tons of tips for making your trip run smoother! You can even have a handy checklist sent directly to your inbox by filling out the form below.

Get Your FREE Checklist for What to Bring to Tahiti 🌴

Need some help packing for your vacation in Tahiti? Here’s my handy checklist for what to bring to Tahiti ! You’ll also receive weekly updates on what’s happening in the travel world!

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How to Get to Fautaua Valley

To access the Fautaua Waterfall hike, you will have to enter Fautaua Valley. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to passby and see some of the more traditional villages. From Papeete, the start of the trailhead in Fautaua Valley is about 5km away. If you don’t have a rental car, you may be tempted to walk there, thinking it is only an extra 3.1 miles. However, I would recommend against this and suggest taking a taxi instead. This is because the hike itself is quite intensive, and you don’t want to expend all your energy just getting yourself to the trailhead.

Once at the gate, there will be a tent with a few security guards. You’ll hand them your permit and then you can begin the hike!

Fautaua Waterfall Hike: What to Expect

Once you pass through the gate, you’ll travel across a fairly large dirt road that has a slight incline. After a good 30 – 40 minutes, depending on how fast you hike, you’ll reach the true beginning of the hike. This is marked by a beautiful green bridge that passes over the river and almost blends in with the surrounding plants.

The bridge marks the starting location of the two hikes that lead to Fautaua Waterfall. One hike goes to the head of the waterfall and the other goes to the base of the waterfall.

Upper Trail: Head of Fautaua Waterfall

If you want to visit the head of the waterfall, you need to cross the bridge. The trail is fairly pleasant, but it does require a bit of climbing. Some of the climbing is steep, but there are ropes to support your ascent or descent. Close to the head of the waterfall, there are three incredible rock pools that you can swim in! The second rock pool area is nothing short of magical as it resembles a hidden grotto carefully nestled into the mountainside! Furthermore, you’ll find a few smaller cascades connect the three rock pool areas. There is even a mini natural chute connecting the middle and lower pools that you can slide down into the water. Beware though, the water temperature there is freezing and not for the faint of heart.

Not far from the rock pool area is the head of the waterfall. The top of the waterfall offers a stunning view of Fautaua Valley that’s simply awe-inspiring! Therefore, if you have the stamina and are not afraid of getting a little dirty, I would highly recommend checking out the head of the waterfall.

Lower Trail: Base of Fautaua Waterfall

The other hike will take you to the base of the waterfall. If you choose to hike to the base of the waterfall, continue along the dirt path and do not cross the bridge. While the other trail requires more vertical ascent, this trail requires you to do river fording (traversing the river) a couple of times. They are not always easy and can be a slippery affair, so bear that in mind if you aren’t an agile person when you select shoes to wear. Furthermore, it’s worth nothing that while the trail is well-defined initially, it does narrow as you progress through. If you’re traveling with more than one person, you’ll have to hike in a single file. Beyond the first river fording, it becomes a little bit more difficult to follow the trail.

Try to follow the little cairns (stack of 3-5 rocks) that people have left to mark the trail. If it has been over an hour since you have seen a cairn…turn back! When in doubt, follow the river as it will lead you back to the bridge and from there you can reach the gate you originally passed through. One notable landmark along the hike is a rock staircase. The staircase is very steep, but there is a rope to assist you in climbing up and down.

The waterfall will be on the left side of the river when you are hiking the lower trail. There is a cairn that indicates where you need to cross the river to reach the waterfall that lies about 800m ahead.

Time to Complete Hike

As someone who is pretty active, the lower hike took me and my friends six hours to complete round-trip . During that time, we spent about an hour admiring the view of Fautaua Waterfall and eating some snacks.

For avid hikers, it is possible to complete both trails in one day. I would recommend heading to the top of the waterfall first and then doing the hike to the base of the waterfall.

But if you’re short on time, I recommend the lower trail just so you can appreciate the height of the waterfall from the base.

General Expectations

Throughout the hike, we only ran into two other people, so the trail was by no means crowded. This means if you get lost, it’s likely going to be impossible to ask for help…🙃 The bright side is that you won’t have to compete with other visitors to catch the perfect picture! Speaking of which, if you want that group shot, you’ll either have to selfie it or want to bring a little travel tripod for your phone !

People and pictures aside, seeing the pure unspoiled beauty of Fautaua Valley is one of the reasons everyone should visit Tahiti. Everywhere you look, there’s beautiful and lush vegetation and flora. You truly feel as if you have been transported into some enchanted forest. You’ll even have a chance to get a good look at Mount ‘Orohena. A fun fact about the island is that Mount ‘Orohena is over 7300+ feet above sea level.

All this said, both trails are physically challenging, so expect to sweat a lot due to the humidity and warmer temperatures in the jungle. Also, I want to mention that when you ford the river for the last time before reaching the waterfall, you climb up a steep bit and then you climb down another steep part. When my friends went, it was very slippery and muddy… I nearly destroyed my shorts while sliding on my butt because the little path before the waterfall was so slippery. But in the end, I made it by aggressively holding onto all the vines and tree roots. Once again, please wear good hiking shoes! And know that you may get pretty dirty… If you look carefully in the pictures, you can see at all the mud caked onto my legs. 😂

Hiring a Guide to Fautaua Waterfall

Although my friends and I completed the Fautaua Waterfall hike in Fautaua Valley without a guide, we didn’t intially notice the cairn that indicated where to cross the river to reach the waterfall. As a result, we ended up making a short unscheduled 30-minute detour. If you don’t want to run the risk of getting lost, you can always join a tour group. Several of the hotels in Tahiti offer various tour packages that include different excursions, including hiking to Fautaua Waterfall. Oh and while tipping culture is different in French Polynesia , I’d consider carrying small bills in the local currency. It’s always nice to reward your guide (or any other local workers) if they give you phenomenal service!

Alternatively, you can hire a personal guide to lead you. Prices tend to get quite expensive quickly, but the tours are comprehensive, provide transportation, and are full-day excursions.

🤿 NOTE: If you aren’t comfortable doing the Fautaua Waterfall hike, check out these amazing tours of Tahiti . You can do everything from snorkeling amongst the diverse aquatic life and whale watching to exhilarating ATV tours and guided island tours.

Where to Stay in Tahiti

In case you’re looking for housing options…feel free to use this interactive map that displays up-to-date prices for various housing accommodations around the island.

Fautaua Waterfall Hike: FAQ

To make sure all you have all the information you need, here are answers to commonly asked questions!

If you don’t mind freezing water temperatures, you can swim at Fautaua waterfall. We saw no signs that suggested otherwise. Just know it’s pretty gusty at the bottom and pack a bag to store any wet items separate from the rest of your stuff!

While Tahiti experiences year-round tropical weather, there are still better times to plan your trip to Tahiti . For example, the dry season, which runs from May to October, experiences cooler temperatures and fewer rainy days. When planning your Fautaua Waterfall hike, avoid going during or immediately after heavy rains . Fautaua River becomes dangerous to cross and sometimes even floods, making the trail impossible to complete.

If you’re looking for some other hikes to check out, I recommend visiting to Moorea from Tahiti . Moorea is only a 45 minute boat ride away and has a variety of hikes that let you admire picturesque panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands. Plus, there are tons of other epic excursions to embark on . My personal favorite is the 4×4 ATV adventure!

The Three Waterfalls of Faarumai are the most popular waterfalls to visit, and most guided island tours stop by here! The first waterfall, Vaimahutu, has a short 5-minute approach on a well-marked path from the parking lot. Meanwhile, the second and third waterfalls are about a 20-minute hike from the first. These two waterfalls, Haamarere Iti and Haamarere Rahi, are located next to each other!

Wrap-Up: Fautaua Waterfall Hike in Fautaua Valley

If you are looking for a thrilling adventure that won’t make your trip to French Polynesia costs skyrocket but will also leave you feeling an immense sense of accomplishment, I cannot recommend the Fautaua Waterfall Hike in Fautaua Valley enough. This booming waterfall is a spectacular sight to see and will take your breath away, literally and figuratively! Not to mention, the hike will not only let you explore Tahiti’s local villages but also take you through the heart of the island’s interior! So, with this guide in hand, I wish you the best of luck on your hike! And, if you need other recommendations for other adventurous activities to do around Tahiti, I recommend looking into surfing in Tahiti , paying a visit to the famous wave, Teahupoo , and looking into the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with whales ! If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact me 🙂

📸 Appreciation Note: You’ll notice that a few of the pictures in this post were taken by my friend good friend Sol! You can see more of his amazing photography here !

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Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

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World of Waterfalls

Explore The World One Waterfall At A Time

Tahiti Waterfalls and How To Visit Them

Tahiti waterfalls.

Tahiti Waterfalls were the scenic accents to our favorite tropical paradise (let alone South Pacific paradise). Of all the tropical island getaways that Julie and I have been to, we still think that none (or very few) can compare to Tahiti (more formally French Polynesia).

While overwater bungalows, colored lagoons, beaches with shallow sandbars, and laid back rhythms are often what we associate with the Tahitian Paradise, we found that it was the waterfalls that really allowed us to become intimately familiar with Tahiti’s Nature.

As you can see from the waterfall map above, we’ve seen quite a few of the Tahitian Waterfalls across a couple of the major islands. We’ve chased Tahiti Waterfalls in both the Wet Season and the Dry Season, where each season yielded very different experiences.

And we’ve shared such experiences through our waterfall write-ups that include detailed descriptions, driving directions, contextual maps, telling photographs, neighboring attractions, and more. So browse around this page and see if you can benefit from our wealth of experiences to plan for your own vacation in paradise…

Most Recent Waterfall Write-ups

“Vaioro Falls”

Other Moorea Waterfalls

Tahiti Iti Waterfalls

Haamaremare Iti and Haamaremare Rahi Waterfalls

Vaiharuru Falls

Vaipahi Falls

Cascade de Fachoda

Tahiti Nui Waterfalls

Papenoo Valley Waterfalls

Vaimahutu Falls (Faarumai Waterfall)

“Putoa Falls” (Afareaitu Waterfall)

Click to see the expanded waterfall list -->

Most Recent User-submitted Waterfalls from this Country

Cascade Topatari (Tahiti, French Polynesia)

Another Papenoo Waterfall!

Papenoo Valley Waterfall (Tahiti)

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South Pacific: When Is The Best Time To Visit?

Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour

Set out on an unforgettable journey through the lush landscapes of Tahiti with the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour. As travelers step into this exclusive experience, they are greeted with the promise of a personalized adventure through the natural wonders of Tahiti.

The mesmerizing beauty of the Big Waterfall awaits, set against the backdrop of the Fautaua Valley. Expert guides will lead the way, ensuring safety and satisfaction throughout this immersive exploration.

Curious to uncover more about this unique hiking escapade? Stay tuned for an insider’s look into the captivating scenery and unforgettable moments that await in Tahiti’s captivating wilderness.

• Exclusive private tour in Fautaua Valley with a focus on Big Waterfall.
• Tailored experience with a personal guide for a unique adventure.
• Explore diverse flora , wildlife , and indulge in local cuisine.
• Blend of guided hiking, photography opportunities , and culture.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• From Papeete: Tahiti Highlights Full-Day Private Tour
• Tahiti Classical Coastal Full Day Private Tour
• Discovery Program
• 4 Hours of Humpback Whale Watching in Tahiti

Tour Highlights

Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Tahiti’s Fautaua Valley and experience the majestic Big Waterfall on this exclusive private hiking tour.

Nature photography enthusiasts will be captivated by the lush landscapes, diverse flora , and stunning vistas that provide the perfect backdrop for capturing memorable shots. As you hike through the valley, keep an eye out for unique plant species and native wildlife that call this region home.

After working up an appetite, indulge in delicious local cuisine during a well-deserved break. Taste traditional Tahitian dishes bursting with flavor and learn about the cultural significance of each culinary delight.

This tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and gastronomic experiences, ensuring a memorable journey through Tahiti’s scenic paradise.

Private Experience

For an exclusive and personalized adventure, explore the private experience offered on the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour. This tour provides a tailored and personalized service , ensuring that every step of the journey is crafted to meet the needs and interests of the participants.

The secluded exploration of the Fautaua Valley allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in the breathtaking natural surroundings without the distractions of a large group. With a private guide leading the way, guests can discover hidden gems and enjoy a more intimate connection with the lush landscapes.

This personalized service guarantees a memorable and unique experience, where every moment is designed to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of Tahiti’s stunning beauty.

Big Waterfall Discovery

What secrets does the Big Waterfall in Tahiti’s Fautaua Valley hold for adventurous explorers?

The majestic Big Waterfall is a sight to behold, offering a symphony of water crashing against the rocks amidst lush greenery.

As visitors approach this natural wonder, the opportunity for stunning waterfall photography presents itself, capturing the essence of its beauty.

The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife, providing chances for exciting wildlife encounters.

Plus, the Big Waterfall in Tahiti’s Fautaua Valley offers breathtaking scenic views that are sure to leave hikers in awe.

After exploring this magnificent sight, hikers can indulge in local cuisine, savoring the flavors of Tahiti while surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

Guided Hiking Adventure

Set out on an exhilarating journey through Tahiti’s Fautaua Valley with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. As you traverse the lush trails, it’s essential to adhere to trail etiquette to preserve the natural surroundings and respect other hikers.

Your guide will provide valuable insights into the local wildlife, enhancing your experience with potential wildlife encounters. Be prepared to witness diverse flora and fauna unique to Tahiti’s ecosystem. Remember to stay alert and follow your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

With their expertise, you can learn about the region’s biodiversity and possibly spot some of the native species that call the valley home. This guided hiking adventure promises not only physical activity but also an educational and immersive experience in nature.

Booking Requirements

To secure your spot on the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour, please complete the booking requirements as outlined by Viator

The booking process is straightforward; visit the Viator website or app, select the tour , choose your preferred date and time, and provide the necessary reservation details. Viator offers various payment options to make the process convenient for you, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

Plus, group discounts may be available, making it an excellent opportunity for friends or family to embark on this adventure together while saving some money.

Tour Duration

Upon completing the booking requirements for the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour, the next consideration is the duration of this captivating adventure through Tahiti’s natural wonders.

Trail Difficulty : The tour duration takes into account the varying levels of trail difficulty, ensuring that participants have enough time to navigate through the terrain comfortably.

Scenic Views : Throughout the tour duration, hikers will be treated to breathtaking scenic views of Fautaua Valley and the impressive Big Waterfall, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of these natural landscapes.

Guided Experience : The tour duration includes a guided experience, offering insights into the surroundings, history , and wildlife , enhancing the overall hiking adventure.

Packing List

Prepare your essentials for the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour with this comprehensive packing list. When gearing up for this adventure, make sure to pack trail snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the hike.

Plus, waterproof gear is essential as Tahiti’s weather can change rapidly, and you may encounter water during the trek to the Big Waterfall. Consider bringing a waterproof backpack, jacket , and sturdy hiking boots.

Don’t forget to pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated on the trail. Being well-prepared with these items will ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience in the stunning Fautaua Valley.

Safety Guidelines

Ensuring hikers’ safety remains a top priority throughout the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour. Here are three essential safety guidelines to guarantee a secure and enjoyable experience:

Emergency Procedures : Knowledge of emergency protocols is crucial. Guides are trained to handle various situations effectively, ensuring hikers are always in good hands.

Trail Conditions : Stay informed about the terrain and weather conditions to prepare adequately. The trail may present challenges such as slippery rocks or steep inclines, so hikers should be cautious and follow the guide’s instructions.

Safety Equipment : It’s mandatory to use provided safety equipment like helmets and harnesses. These tools are designed to enhance hikers’ safety and should be worn at all times during the tour.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Swim With Whales, on the Preserved and Quiet Coast of Paea and Papara (27km From Ppt)
• Padi Open Water Diver
• Tahiti Half Day Coastal Private Tour
• Half-Day Snorkeling Tour From Papeete
• Level 1 (International)
• Private Surf With Your Teacher Manua

Common questions

Are pets allowed on the hiking tour.

Pets are not permitted on the hiking tour for safety reasons and to maintain trail etiquette . It’s important to respect these guidelines to ensure a positive experience for all participants and to protect the natural environment.

Is There a Restroom Available Along the Hiking Route?

Restroom availability along the hiking route is limited but strategically placed for convenience. While nature calls, scenic views await. Hikers are advised to plan accordingly and relish both the beauty of the surroundings and the necessary break.

Can Elderly or Differently-Abled Individuals Participate in the Tour?

Elderly or differently-abled you can participate in the tour. Accessibility accommodations are available to cater to physical limitations . The tour ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, offering support and assistance where needed.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Hiking Tour?

Age restrictions are in place to ensure safety. The guidelines outline who can participate. It’s vital to adhere to these rules for everyone’s well-being. Visitors should review these requirements before booking the hiking tour.

Is There a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Option Available During the Tour?

Vegetarian and vegan meal options cater to dietary restrictions during the tour. Local cuisine showcases sustainable, eco-friendly choices. Enjoy flavorful dishes while exploring nature. The tour ensures a memorable and fulfilling experience for all participants.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Private Mask and Snorkel Fins Tour
• Private Transfer : Vanira Lodge to Tahiti Airport
• Private Full Day in Papeete and Tahiti Iti With Belveder Lookout
• Rental of an Electric Mountain Bike on the Tahiti Peninsula
• Papeete Market Place
• 1 Hour Jet Ski Tour
• Jet Ski Trip for One Hour
• Private Yatch Excursion on the Tahiti Lagoon
• Snorkeling Picnic in 5 Hours With Lunch in Tahiti
• 5h Respectful Whale Excursion Complete
• Private Transfer From Papeete City Hotels to Papeete Cruise Port

Get set for the adventure of a lifetime with the Tahiti Fautaua Valley and Big Waterfall Private Hiking Tour. From the lush landscapes to the captivating Big Waterfall, this exclusive experience offers a personalized and guided exploration of Tahiti’s natural wonders.

With expert guides, safety precautions , and immersive hiking adventures, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking scenery of this tropical paradise.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to discover the beauty of Tahiti up close and personal.

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Papenoo Valley Waterfalls

Price & Hours

• Facilities 2.0
• Atmosphere 4.0

Breathtaking views of vibrant green, craggy mountains shrouded by low-hanging clouds are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the beauty around Papenoo Valley – or Vallée de la Papenoo, as it’s known locally. In this rugged interior section of Tahiti, you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to traverse the bumpy, muddy roads that feel distant from the streets of Papeete . Here in the largest valley on the island, three waterfalls – Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls and Puraha Falls – pour down from lofty heights, surrounded by thick jungle and vegetation. It’s the epitome of adventure and getting off the beaten path – a place where most visitors come accompanied by a tour guide.

Some travelers were taken aback by just how rugged the terrain was, noting the potential for danger on the valley’s trails. The overwhelming majority, however, had nothing but rave reviews for the stunning flora and fauna that decorate the area in such pristine conditions. Exploring the valley with a tour guide was highly recommended by many.

The starting point of Papenoo Valley is less than 30 minutes from Papeete, but you could easily spend a half or full day exploring the ravine, swimming in waterfalls and taking in all the glorious scenery. Most tours operated in the area will last an entire day.

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More Best Things To Do in Tahiti

#1 La Plage de Maui

The primary reason why so many Tahitian tourists flock to this stretch of shoreline is the sand: While many of the island's beaches boast a volcanic black hue, La Plage de Maui dazzles in pearly white. Located on Tahiti's southern shore, the clean, warm waters of the nearby lagoon are another draw.

Travelers say the water is unbelievably clear and the lagoon is shallow and calm, making this a great spot for families with young children and amateur snorkelers. The beachside restaurant, also named La Plage de Maui, serves up fresh seafood and is exceptionally popular among visitors, who raved about both the location and the food.

Explore More of Tahiti

Things To Do

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Waterfalls in Tahiti

Home » Experiences » Waterfalls in Tahiti

Published on 31 August 2023

Reading time: 4 min.

The tropical climate in The Islands of Tahiti guarantees lots of sunshine, but at certain times of year, it means there’s a fair bit of rain, too. This rain gradually makes its way down to the coast and, because Tahiti is a mountainous island, much of it cascades down in waterfalls.

Tahiti is the most visited island in French Polynesia, which is partly because the international airport is on the island, but also due to the magnificent scenery of its coast and the lush green mountainous interior. There are exceptional hiking trails on the island, on which you can explore its luxuriant countryside. One of the best is in the valley of Papenoo, where the views over the mountains are breathtaking. Many of the trails lead to picturesque waterfalls, which are always impressive sights. Use the services of a guide to make sure that you don’t miss any of the most spectacular waterfalls.

Waterfalls on the island of Tahiti

A full-day excursion to the valley of Papenoo, in the north of the island of Tahiti, will take you to the waterfalls of Topatari, Vaiharuru and Puraha. You get a spectacular view of Puraha waterfall when you walk in the shallow pool, surrounded by thick ferns and heavy moss, at its foot. You can walk across the pool under the waterfall, where you’ll be in the company of some big, but harmless, wriggling eels. The hike to the waterfall is down a shaded trail in the forest, which provides a pleasant break from the sunshine. To the east of the island, the Vaihi waterfall at Faaone is also a very agreeable, calm and shaded spot. Ideal for a picnic if you’re doing a tour of the island.

The Fautaua waterfall in one of the valleys in the district of Pirae, is very high and extremely impressive. You need sturdy walking shoes or boots on this trail, which takes half a day. You should also take plenty of water with you. You won’t meet many people on this trail. A less challenging hike is the Trois cascades (three waterfalls) trail at Faarumai, in the north of Tahiti. A short walk through a forest of Tahitian chestnut trees, takes you to the first of the three waterfalls on this popular trail. Called Vaihimauta, the waterfall has an impressive drop of 80 meters.

Waterfalls in Moorea

The island of Moorea is only 30 minutes from Tahiti by ferry, and is equally as picturesque. A magnificent, blue lagoon, beautiful beaches, and a lush green, mountainous interior with several impressive waterfalls. The most impressive of these is at Afareaitu.

The waterfall is named Afareaitu, after the village close by, in the southeast of the island. Although it is not the highest waterfall in The Islands of Tahiti, it is certainly one of the most beautiful. The water cascades gently down the side of a cliff and drops into a calm, refreshing pool. The hike to this picturesque spot isn’t particularly challenging and takes about an hour.

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Private Luxury Island Tour

Enjoy a private full island tour with our friendly, expert guides, Vanessa and Mana. Visit Tahiti's natural and cultural highlights, including; the marae, grottos, Botanical Gardens, Vaima Springs, the Museum of Tahiti, waterfalls, the blowhole, Point Venus, surf spots and King Pomare V monument. Should you want to arrange stops at specific additional locations, these can be arranged with your guide. Shorter or longer tours are also available.   Operates: Everyday Pick-up Location:   From your hotel, the ferry dock, or the airport.   

*Activity reservations may be made for all current Tahiti.com clients with minimum bookings of at least one night hotel and when made a minimum 5 business days prior to departure. For Tahiti.com clients traveling throughout French Polynesia on a cruise we are unable to book shore activities. For clients who have not made reservations with Tahiti.com, only private excursions may be requested on days that cruise ships are not in port, and a minimum booking fee of $50 per person will apply, subject to availability.