Fautaua Valley: Tahiti's Lush Waterfall Paradise
Discover Tahiti's Fautaua Valley: Hike through lush landscapes, explore historic sites, and witness the island's tallest waterfall.
Fautaua Valley, situated between Papeete and Pirae on the island of Tahiti, is a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and rich history. The valley's centerpiece is the Fautaua Waterfall (also known as Cascade de Fachoda), a majestic cascade that plunges approximately 300 meters (980 feet) into a shallow bathing pool called Loti Bain. This makes it the highest waterfall in Tahiti. 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 ruined fort at the top of the falls, which served as a strategic stronghold. The valley's trails wind through lush vegetation, alongside the Fautaua River, offering stunning views of Mount 'Orohena. There are two main trails, one leading to the base of the falls and the other to the top, where natural pools and rock formations await. The hike to the top is more challenging, involving steep descents with ropes, but rewards adventurers with the opportunity to swim in the natural pools and enjoy panoramic views. To access the Fautaua Valley, visitors must obtain a permit from the Papeete Town Hall. The valley is owned by Polynésienne des Eaux, Papeete's drinking water concessionaire, and access is regulated to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Local tips
- Obtain a permit from the Papeete City Hall before hiking. The office is open weekdays.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and rugged.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for several hours.
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and capture stunning photos with soft morning light.
A brief summary to Fautaua Valley
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Getting There
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Taxi
From downtown Papeete, a taxi to the Fautaua Valley trailhead takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxis are readily available in the city center. Expect to pay around 2,000-3,000 XPF for a one-way trip.
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Public Transport
From the bus terminal next to the Papeete Town Hall, take bus marked 8A TITIORO. The bus goes almost to the end of Fautaua Valley. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. A single fare costs around 300 XPF.
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Walking
Walking from downtown Papeete to the Fautaua Valley trailhead is possible, but not recommended due to the distance and the intensity of the hike itself. Set aside at least one hour to walk to the entrance.
