Marae Taputapuatea: Polynesia's Sacred Heart
Explore the spiritual heart of Polynesia at Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea, where ancient traditions come to life.
Marae Taputapuatea, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Raiatea, French Polynesia, stands as a testament to ancient Polynesian civilization. Dating back to around 1000 AD, this sacred site was once the religious and political center of Eastern Polynesia, where chiefs, priests, and navigators gathered to exchange knowledge, perform rituals, and solidify alliances.
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
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the site involves walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty and historical architecture.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the site's cultural significance.
- Respect the sacredness of the site and follow local customs and guidelines during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If traveling by car from Uturoa, the main town on Raiatea, head south on the main road for approximately 25 minutes. Follow the signs for Marae Taputapuatea. Limited parking is available near the site. There are no toll roads on the way to the site.
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Public Transport
Check with local bus services in Uturoa for routes heading towards Taputapuapea. Ask the driver to let you off at the nearest stop for Marae Taputapuatea. From the bus stop, it is approximately a 10-15 minute walk to the site. Bus services may not run frequently, so plan accordingly. Bus fares are standard and paid to the driver upon boarding.
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Walking
If staying in Taputapuapea, you can walk to Marae Taputapuatea. Head south on the main road, following the signs for Marae Taputapuatea. The walk is approximately 20 minutes along a scenic coastal route.
Discover more about Marae Taputapuatea
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hôtel Atiapiti
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Raiatea Sur Mer
1.4 km
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Fareatai
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Pension Te Maeva
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Raiatea Pearl
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Raiatea Village
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Raiatea Quad
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Subdivision des Iles Sous le Vent
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Motu Nao Nao
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Restaurant Villa Ixora
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Chambre d'Hôte Gîte Pension Te Ava Piti Lodge Raiatea
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Raromatai Pro Api
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Tahiti Tourisme, Raiatea
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La Raie'Gate
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RAROMATAI ENVIRONNEMENT
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Unmissable attractions to see
Motu IRIRU
5.3 km
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Fa'aroa Bay
5.9 km
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de Raiatea Botanical Garden
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Mystery House Raiatea
7.1 km
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Mont Temehani
10.0 km
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Three waterfalls
10.7 km
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Motu Ofetaro
12.7 km
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My Flower
14.7 km
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FAAROA CRUISE
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RAIATEA BLUE LAGOON
14.9 km
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Tahiti Pearl Regatta
14.9 km
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Mont Tapioi
15.2 km
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Motu Aito
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Raiatea Jet
16.8 km
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Hemisphere Sub Plongée
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Essential places to dine
SNACK TAMARA
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Opoa Beach Hotel
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Roulotte Tevahine
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Roulotte Chez Mahin’s
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Roulotte OHANA RFP
8.2 km
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Pizzeria Utufara
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Roulotte Pilialoha
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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
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OIKOS
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TOOTOOMIRO BURGER
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Brasserie de Tahiti
14.3 km
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Ninamu Lagon
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LTB FENUA Organic Farm & Camping
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Magasin Opoa
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Perle D'Ô
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Rainbow Bay - l'Atelier du Pāreu
7.1 km
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Raiatea
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Pharmacie Lafayette Avera
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Boulangerie Pain du Fenua
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Vairua Perles
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Orama store
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Mataio vanille
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Suptepua
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Boutique Faremeho
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Vodafone Raiatea
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Nautisport Raiatea
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Magasin Teroto
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Manuia bar
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Snack Parea
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Vini Vini Bar
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The Lucky House Fare Manuia Restaurant
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Beach Bar
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Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort
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Ukulele Bar
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La Villa Mahana
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Aparima Bar
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