Marae Taputapuatea: The Heart of Polynesia
Explore the spiritual heart of Polynesia at Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient center of Polynesian culture.
Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea, is the most sacred archeological site in French Polynesia. Dating back to AD 1000, this ancient temple complex was the religious, political, and cultural center of Eastern Polynesia.
A brief summary to Marae Taputapuatea
- 5J7R+MJG, Taputapuapea, Opoa, PF
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is limited shade.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
Getting There
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Car
From Uturoa, the main town on Raiatea, Marae Taputapuatea is approximately a 25-minute drive south. Follow the coastal road along the eastern side of the island. The road is generally in good condition, but be prepared for some bumpy sections. There is no admission fee to enter the site. Parking is available near the entrance. Car rentals are available at the airport and in Uturoa. Expect to pay around XPF 8,000 to XPF 12,000 per day for a rental car.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Uturoa, but can be expensive. A taxi from Uturoa to Marae Taputapuatea will cost approximately XPF 5,000 to XPF 7,000. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The journey takes around 25 minutes.
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Bus
Local buses, known as 'le trucks,' operate on Raiatea. These are an economical way to get around the island. The bus from Uturoa to Opoa (the village closest to Marae Taputapuatea) costs around XPF 500. From Opoa, it's a short walk to the marae. Be aware that the buses may not run frequently, so check the schedule in advance.
Discover more about Marae Taputapuatea
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hôtel Atiapiti
0.2 km
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Raiatea Sur Mer
1.4 km
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Fareatai
2.5 km
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Pension Te Maeva
4.5 km
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Raiatea Pearl
4.9 km
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Raiatea Village
6.2 km
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Raiatea Quad
6.5 km
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Subdivision des Iles Sous le Vent
10.5 km
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Motu Nao Nao
11.7 km
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Motu Ofetaro
12.7 km
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Restaurant Villa Ixora
12.9 km
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Chambre d'Hôte Gîte Pension Te Ava Piti Lodge Raiatea
13.1 km
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Raromatai Pro Api
13.2 km
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Tahiti Tourisme, Raiatea
14.7 km
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La Raie'Gate
14.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Motu IRIRU
5.3 km
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de Raiatea Botanical Garden
7.0 km
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Mystery House Raiatea
7.1 km
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Mont Temehani
10.0 km
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FAAROA CRUISE
14.7 km
Discover the beauty of Raiatea through captivating boat tours with Faaroa Cruise, where adventure meets tranquility in French Polynesia.
RAIATEA BLUE LAGOON
14.9 km
Explore the pristine waters and vibrant marine life of Raiatea Blue Lagoon, a premier boat tour agency in the heart of French Polynesia.
Tahiti Pearl Regatta
14.9 km
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Motu Aito
15.8 km
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Raiatea Jet
16.8 km
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Hemisphere Sub Plongée
17.4 km
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Motu Api
18.1 km
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Motu Mahaea
22.4 km
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Fare Vanira
22.7 km
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Poerani tours
26.0 km
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Tahaa Earth & SEA
30.9 km
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Essential places to dine
SNACK TAMARA
1.0 km
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Opoa Beach Hotel
2.2 km
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Roulotte Tevahine
4.4 km
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Roulotte Chez Mahin’s
8.2 km
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Roulotte OHANA RFP
8.2 km
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Pizzeria Utufara
8.8 km
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Roulotte Pilialoha
8.9 km
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L’Atelier Saveurs
11.6 km
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Snack Punaeroa
12.3 km
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Mega Pizza
13.2 km
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Snack Tonoi
13.9 km
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OIKOS
14.2 km
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TOOTOOMIRO BURGER
14.2 km
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Brasserie de Tahiti
14.3 km
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Ninamu Lagon
14.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LTB FENUA Organic Farm & Camping
1.3 km
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Magasin Opoa
1.7 km
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Perle D'Ô
7.0 km
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Rainbow Bay - l'Atelier du Pāreu
7.1 km
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Raiatea
7.4 km
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Pharmacie Lafayette Avera
8.4 km
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Boulangerie Pain du Fenua
8.6 km
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Vairua Perles
9.8 km
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Orama store
11.5 km
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Mataio vanille
12.4 km
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Suptepua
13.1 km
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Boutique Faremeho
13.2 km
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Vodafone Raiatea
14.4 km
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Nautisport Raiatea
14.5 km
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Magasin Teroto
14.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Villa Lou Faret
30.1 km
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Top food
32.2 km
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Manuia bar
33.5 km
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Huahine
37.8 km
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Snack Parea
40.4 km
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Chez Robert Et Tina
51.5 km
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InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora Resort
51.8 km
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Vini Vini Bar
51.8 km
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BUBBLES BAR
51.8 km
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The Lucky House Fare Manuia Restaurant
51.9 km
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Beach Bar
52.1 km
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Bora Bora Beach Club
52.2 km
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Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort
52.3 km
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Ukulele Bar
52.3 km
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La Villa Mahana
53.0 km
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