Waterfalls After Rain in Tahiti 2024-2025
Discover the uninhabited world of Papenoo Valley with its lakes, waterfalls, and giant rocks
Best time: November–March
Papenoo Valley in Tahiti is famous for its lakes, waterfalls, and high rocks. It is a tropical paradise with at least 160 small waterfalls. The valley is a hidden, uninhabited part of the island with lush vegetation; check out the giant ferns, colourful plants, and amazing pure mountain streams. Rent a 4-wheel-drive car and make a trip to this abandoned world. On your way, you’ll find the archaeological sites of Tahiti which include stone temples and groups of long-abandoned traditional house foundations. Along the roads there are many fruits trees so you can try fresh star fruit or guava.
Of course, the main attractions of the site are the famous waterfalls—Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls (on the west side of the valley), and Puraha Falls (on the east side of the valley). There are several parallel waterfalls called the Princess's Hair and only flow during rain. Outside of Papenoo Valley, there is one more waterfall called Faarumai Waterfalls. It is a cascade waterfall that flows into a pool where one can swim. Experienced tourists are advised to visit the valley with waterfalls in the rainy season. They say at this time it is more dramatic and powerful.