Fautaua Valley is a beautiful trail which passes through the jungle with wild passion fruit trees and ginger flowers. This spot is known for the 300m-high Fautaua Falls and another waterfall that naturally slides into a deep pool.
One more interesting attraction is the Lava Tubes of Hitiaa—underground galleries with a river running through them. They are long tunnels formed by the cooling and rapid hardening of lava. These tubes are located on the cliff coast on the island's east. Trekking through them requires swimming and wedging over slick rocks in the dark so you need a torch or a headlamp. On both sides of the river, you can see waterfalls and sunny bathing pools.
One of the most challenging hikes is at Mt Aorai, the second highest peak of Tahiti, through the steep rocks. Some travel guides claim it's the best climb in French Polynesia.
Hiking in Tahiti is most accessible during the dry season between May and October.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Tahiti for hiking?
Hiking in Tahiti is best during the dry season from May to October when the weather is less humid and more comfortable for outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so it's best to book accommodations beforehand to avoid any hassle. Hiking during this time offers a memorable experience despite the crowd on the trails. Show more
Where are Fautaua Valley and Hitiaa Lava Tubes located?
Fautaua Valley and Hitiaa Lava Tubes are situated on the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia. Fautaua Valley is located near Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, and can be reached using the Patae Road. Hitiaa Lava Tubes are situated on the east coast of the island near the Hitiaa O Te Ra district, both beautiful spots for nature lovers looking for an adventure. Show more
What are some of the unique flora and fauna that can be seen during the hikes?
The tropical flora and fauna of Tahiti can be seen during hikes. Hiking the Fautaua Valley allows for the viewing of exotic passion fruit trees, ginger flowers, and the 300m-high Fautaua Falls. The Hitiaa Lava Tubes gives the unique opportunity of observing bats, crabs and other species. Meanwhile, Mt Aorai showcases diverse tropical trees and vegetation, ferns, mosses, and native birds like the Tahiti Monarch and Tahiti Swiftlet. Show more
What should be the duration of a hiking trip to Tahiti?
The duration of a hiking trip to Tahiti depends on the type of hike and its difficulty level. Adventurers can opt for a day-long hike, or a multi-day trek depending on their requirements. Hikes like Fautaua Valley and Hitiaa Lava Tubes may be completed within a day or half-day. Meanwhile, Mt Aorai may require an overnight camping experience. Hikers must bring enough food, water, clothes, and other essentials based on their chosen hiking trip duration. Show more
When trekking through Lava Tubes of Hitiaa, what sort of gear should one carry?
Trekking through Lava Tubes of Hitiaa requires a torch or headlamp as it is necessary to swim and wedge over slick rocks in the dark. To prevent any accidents, it is imperative to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with excellent grip capacity. A swimsuit and towel should be brought along for the waterfall and sunny bathing pools. Sufficient food, water, and supplies also need to be carried as there are no restaurants, bars or shops close to the vicinity. Show more
