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Fautaua Valley: Tahiti's Lush Waterfall Hike

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Hike through Tahiti's Fautaua Valley to discover towering waterfalls, lush landscapes, and a rich history. A challenging trek with breathtaking rewards.

Explore the Fautaua Valley, a verdant river valley near Papeete, Tahiti, and home to the towering Fautaua Falls. This challenging yet rewarding hike offers a glimpse into Tahiti's history and natural beauty, culminating in stunning waterfall views and refreshing natural pools.

A brief summary to Fautaua Valley

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Local tips

  • A permit is required to hike in Fautaua Valley. Obtain it from the Papeete Town Hall (Mairie de Papeete) on weekdays.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep, rocky, and slippery.
  • Bring mosquito repellent.
  • Check weather conditions before heading out, as the valley may close due to rain.
  • Pack swimwear to enjoy the natural pools at the top of Fautaua Falls.
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Getting There

  • Car/Taxi

    From downtown Papeete, drive or take a taxi along Avenue Pierre Loti into the Fautaua Valley. The drive is approximately 10-15 minutes. Continue on Avenue Pierre Loti until you reach the gate at the end of the road, where the trailhead begins. Taxi fare from Papeete to the Fautaua Valley entrance is estimated at 2,000-3,000 XPF. Parking is available near the trailhead. Note that parking may be limited.

  • Public Transport

    From the bus terminal next to the Papeete Town Hall, take bus 8A TITIORO. This bus operates on weekdays only, from approximately 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The bus will take you almost to the end of Fautaua Valley. Get off at the last stop, near a multi-sport court (Salle Omisports Pape Ora), and walk approximately 10 minutes to the entrance of the hike. A single bus fare is around 200-300 XPF.

  • Permit

    Before heading to Fautaua Valley, obtain a permit from the Papeete Town Hall (Mairie de Papeete). The office is located on the ground floor, north side. It is open from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday to Thursday, and until 1:30 PM on Fridays. The permit costs 600 XPF per adult and 150 XPF per child (12-17 years). Children under 12 are free. You can pay by card.

Discover more about Fautaua Valley

The Fautaua Valley, nestled between Papeete and Pirae in Tahiti, is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The valley's centerpiece is the Fautaua Falls, a magnificent cascade plunging almost 300 meters (980 feet), making it one of the highest waterfalls in French Polynesia. The pool at the top of the fall is called Loti Bain, named after French writer Pierre Loti who once lived in the area. The valley holds historical significance as a refuge for Tahitian resistors during the Franco-Tahitian War in 1846. Hikers can explore the remains of Fort Fachoda, a strategic stronghold used against French troops. The valley's trails wind through lush vegetation, offering glimpses of archaeological sites and the island's diverse flora and fauna. The hike to Fautaua Falls typically takes 3-6 hours, depending on the chosen route. The initial path is relatively easy, following the river through a shady, verdant landscape. After about 3 kilometers, you'll reach the Fachoda bridge. From there, hikers can choose between two routes: one leading to the base of the waterfall, involving river fording, and the other, more challenging route, ascending to the top of the falls and the natural pools. Be prepared for steep inclines, rocky terrain, and potentially slippery conditions. Note that the Fautaua Valley hike is currently closed for renovations and is expected to reopen in September/October 2025.

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