'Āfareaitu Waterfalls: Moorea's Hidden Gems
Discover Moorea's hidden paradise: Twin waterfalls, lush trails, and refreshing pools await in the heart of 'Āfareaitu.
'Āfareaitu Waterfalls, nestled in the lush valley near 'Āfareaitu village on Moorea's southeastern coast, are a pair of stunning cascades that offer a refreshing escape into nature's sanctuary. The two main falls, Putoa and Vaioro, feature natural pools perfect for a swim amidst breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to 'Āfareaitu
- Moorea-Maiao, 'Āfareaitu, PF
Local tips
- Visit during the wet season (November-April) for the most powerful waterfall views.
- Bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles suitable for potential mud and volcanic rocks.
- Consider a guided tour for insights into local flora, fauna, and Polynesian legends.
Getting There
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Walking
If starting in 'Āfareaitu village, walk towards Route de l'Opunohu (main road). Head south until the intersection with Route de 'Āfareaitu, then turn right. Follow the road, watching for signs to the waterfall. The path involves a dirt road and some hiking. Note that the routes to Putoa and Vaioro waterfalls are different.
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Public Transport
From various points on Moorea, catch the local 'Le Truck'. Ask the driver to stop at the nearest point to 'Āfareaitu village. From there, follow signs or ask locals for directions to the waterfall, a short walk from the main road. Note that public transport on Moorea is limited.
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Taxi
Taxis are available at the airport, ferry terminal, and major hotels. Arrange a taxi to 'Āfareaitu village. From there, follow walking directions to the waterfall. A taxi from the ferry terminal to a location 5km away will cost around 651 XPF. Expect to pay more for longer distances or waiting time.
Discover more about 'Āfareaitu
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Te Ora Hau Ecolodge
1.1 km
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Terevau
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Village Temanoha
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Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort
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Kaylakea Moz Food by Chef Tunui Haring
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MOOREA SURF INN
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Tahiti Food Tours
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Moorea Golf Lodge
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Poerani Moorea
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Green Lodge Moorea
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Rudy's
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MOOREA ARIKI PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
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Fare La Canadienne Burger House Moorea
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Robinson's Cove Villas
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Mermaid Private Boat Tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jardin de Corail du Motu Ahi
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Motu Ahi
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'Āfareaitu Waterfall
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Moorea watersport
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Col de Vaiare
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Three Pines Lookout
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Belvedere Lookout
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Mo'orea
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Marae Ti'i-rua
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Marae-o-Mahine
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Temple protestant Fare Hotu de TEAVARO
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Col des 3 cocotiers
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Tiki Parc Moorea
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Vallée d'Opunohu
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Three Coconuts Lookout
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Essential places to dine
La Fringale
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Vaiare Pizza
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Restaurant Arii
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Moorea Grill
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Crêperie Cook Café
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Restaurant Te Honu Iti
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Snack Rotui
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Pure Restaurant
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Restaurant K
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Fish Market and Snack AUTEA
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Allo Pizza
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LE COOK'S Bar et Restaurant, Moorea
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Restaurant La Grand Voile - Moorea
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Les Colorees
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Champion Moorea
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Super U Aré
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Pearlescence
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Moana Pearls
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Mahana Boutique
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La Boutique Moorea
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Tiki Bar
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La Cantina Tahiti
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L'Aviation - Bar Restaurant de l'aéroport
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Te Moana Tahiti Resort
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Prin's Bar Tahiti
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Restaurant bar Chez Dani
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