Cascade de Fautaua, Society Islands Travel Guide

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Discover Tahiti's majestic Cascade de Fautaua: Hike through lush valleys, explore historical sites, and witness breathtaking natural beauty.

Cascade de Fautaua, also known as Fachoda Falls, is one of Tahiti's tallest and most impressive waterfalls, cascading down approximately 443 feet (135 meters) into a shallow pool. The hike to the falls offers a blend of adventure and historical exploration, winding through lush landscapes and past remnants of Fort Fachoda.

A brief summary to Cascade de Fautaua

CF3G+96R, Fa'a'ā, PF
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cascade de Fautaua.

Obtain a permit from the Papeete Town Hall before hiking, as it is required for access to the Fautaua Valley.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks for the 3-6 hour hike.
Check weather conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can make the trail slippery and potentially dangerous.
Consider hiring a guide to avoid getting lost and to learn about the valley's history and flora.

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Explore Cascade de Fautaua on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cascade de Fautaua, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car/Taxi

From downtown Papeete, the easiest way to reach the Fautaua Valley trailhead is by car or taxi. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Follow Avenue Pierre Loti to the end, where you'll find a parking lot at the hike's departure point. A taxi from Papeete to the trailhead will cost approximately 2,000-3,000 CFP.
Public Transport

On weekdays, you can take bus 8A TITIORO from the Papeete Town Hall bus terminal. The bus goes almost to the end of Fautaua Valley. Get off at the last stop, at a multi-sport court (Salle Omisports Pape Ora), then walk 10 minutes down the road to the entrance of the hike. A single bus fare costs around 200 CFP.
Permit

Before heading to the trailhead, obtain a permit from the Papeete Town Hall. The Department of Administration and Finance is located on the ground level, north side, and is open from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm Monday to Thursday, and until 1:30 pm on Fridays. The permit costs 600 CFP per adult and 150 CFP per child (12-17 years).

Discover more about Cascade de Fautaua

The Cascade de Fautaua, or Fachoda Falls, is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the Fautaua Valley, near Papeete. This majestic waterfall plunges from a height of 443 feet (135 meters), making it one of the tallest and most captivating waterfalls in Tahiti. The falls cascade into a shallow bathing pool, named Loti Bain after the French writer Pierre Loti, who once resided in the area.The journey to Cascade de Fautaua is an adventure in itself, offering a moderate to challenging hike through Tahiti's lush interior. The trail winds through verdant landscapes, alongside the Fautaua River, and past historical sites, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Along the way, hikers can explore the remains of Fort Fachoda, a former Tahitian stronghold during the Franco-Tahitian wars, adding a historical dimension to the experience.There are two main approaches to reach the waterfall: the upper and lower trails. The upper trail crosses a bridge and ascends steeply through the jungle, offering panoramic views and access to natural pools near the top of the falls. The lower trail hugs the river, requiring several river crossings and leading to the base of the falls. Regardless of the chosen path, hikers should be prepared for steep sections, muddy conditions, and the need to navigate exposed roots and rocks.The Fautaua Valley is not only a natural paradise but also a place of historical importance. The valley and its surrounding areas have witnessed significant events in Tahitian history, and remnants of the past can still be found along the trail.