Cascade de Fautaua, Tahiti Travel Guide

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Hike through history to Tahiti's tallest waterfall, Cascade de Fautaua, for stunning views and natural pools. A challenging trek into the island's heart.

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Cascade de Fautaua

Cascade de Fautaua, also known as Fachoda Waterfall, is a stunning natural attraction near Papeete, Tahiti. Plunging almost 300 meters (980 ft), it's one of the island's tallest waterfalls, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike through lush scenery and historical sites.

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 Papeete Town Hall before hiking; it's required and checked at the trailhead.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be steep, muddy, and involve river crossings.
Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the 3-6 hour hike.
Check local weather conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can make the trail dangerous.
Consider hiring a guide, as the trails are not always well-marked.

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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, take Avenue Pierre Loti into Fautaua Valley. Follow the road to the end, approximately 5 km, where you'll find a parking lot at the trailhead. A taxi from Papeete to the trailhead will cost approximately 2000-3000 XPF. Parking at the trailhead is free.
Public Transport

From the Papeete Town Hall bus terminal, take bus 8A TITIORO. The bus operates on weekdays only, from approximately 6 am to 5 pm. Get off at the last stop, Salle Omisports Pape Ora, and walk 10 minutes down the road to the trailhead. Bus fare is approximately 300 XPF.
Walking

Walking from downtown Papeete to the trailhead is possible but not recommended due to the distance (approximately 5 km) and the strenuous nature of the subsequent hike. Allow at least one hour to walk to the trailhead. Once at the trailhead, a permit is required to access the hike. Permits can be purchased at the Papeete city hall for 600 XPF per adult.

Discover more about Cascade de Fautaua

The Cascade de Fautaua, or Fachoda Waterfall, is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the Fautaua Valley near Papeete. This majestic waterfall, cascading down almost 300 meters (980 ft), ranks among Tahiti's highest and most impressive. The journey to the falls is an adventure in itself, offering a blend of vigorous hiking, historical exploration, and immersion in Tahiti's lush, verdant interior.The hike to Cascade de Fautaua typically takes 3-6 hours, depending on the chosen route. The initial part of the trail follows a relatively easy 3-kilometer path from the gate of Polynésienne des Eaux, Papeete's water concessionaire, to the Fachoda bridge. This section is known for its shady and accessible route, suitable for families. Along the way, hikers can explore an easily accessible ancient Tahitian temple site (marae).After the Fachoda bridge, the trail becomes more challenging, offering two options: one route follows the river to the base of the waterfall, requiring river crossings that can be slippery. The other crosses the bridge and ascends towards the top of the falls, passing the ruins of Fort Fachoda and the Governor's Garden. This upper route involves a steep climb through dense tropical forest, with ropes assisting hikers in certain sections. This path leads to natural pools and basalt formations.Historically, the Fautaua Valley and its surrounding area served as an important route for the island's early inhabitants. Fort Fachoda, now in ruins, was one of the last Tahitian strongholds during the Franco-Tahitian wars, making the valley a symbol of Tahitian resistance.Visitors should obtain a permit from the Papeete Town Hall before embarking on the hike. The trail can be demanding, with steep and muddy sections, so sturdy hiking shoes, water, and snacks are essential.