Fautaua Valley, Tahiti Travel Guide

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Hike to Tahiti's tallest waterfall through a lush valley with historical significance. Permits required for entry. Open daily.

Fautaua Valley, nestled between Papeete and Pirae, is a verdant river valley famous for Fautaua Falls, one of Tahiti's tallest waterfalls. The valley offers a moderately challenging hike through lush scenery, historical remnants, and access to refreshing natural pools. A permit is required to enter the valley, contributing to the preservation of this natural and historical site.

A brief summary to Fautaua Valley

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Obtain a permit at the Papeete Town Hall (Mairie de Papeete) before hiking. Open weekdays, fees apply.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be steep, rocky, and slippery.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take 3-6 hours.
Consider hiring a guide to avoid getting lost and to learn about the valley's history and flora.
Check the weather forecast before hiking, as the valley may be closed due to rain.

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Explore Fautaua Valley on the Map

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

Getting There

Taxi

From Papeete, a taxi to the Fautaua Valley entrance 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. Inform the driver you're going to the 'Fautaua Valley' entrance on Avenue Pierre Loti.
Bus

From the Papeete Town Hall bus terminal, take bus 8A TITIORO. This bus operates on weekdays only, from approximately 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The bus will take you close to the end of Fautaua Valley. The cost is approximately 200 XPF. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the valley entrance.
Walking

Walking from downtown Papeete to the Fautaua Valley entrance is possible but not recommended due to the distance and the intensity of the hike itself. Set aside at least one hour to reach the entrance. Follow Avenue Pierre Loti eastward.

Discover more about Fautaua Valley

Fautaua Valley is a captivating destination on the island of Tahiti, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Located between Papeete and Pirae, this lush valley is carved by the Fautaua River, which culminates in the breathtaking Fautaua Falls. Plunging almost 300 meters (980 feet), the falls rank among the island's tallest and most accessible waterfalls.The valley holds historical importance as the site of Fort Fachoda, a strategic stronghold during the Franco-Tahitian War in 1846. Tahitian resistors sought refuge here, using the fort to resist French troops. Though the fort now lies in ruins, the valley remains a symbol of Tahitian resistance.The hike through Fautaua Valley is a rewarding experience, suitable for those with average fitness levels. The trail leads through dense tropical vegetation, past basalt boulders, and alongside the Fautaua River. Along the way, hikers can explore remnants of the governor's garden, planted in the 1880s, and discover various plant species used by Polynesians for food and medicine.After approximately 3 kilometers, the path reaches the Fachoda bridge, where hikers can choose between two routes. One path follows the river to the base of the falls, while the other crosses the bridge and ascends through the forest to a viewpoint above the Loti waterfall and the ruins of Fort Fachoda. The latter route involves a steep descent with ropes to access natural pools and rock formations.Swimming in the natural pools at the top or base of the falls offers a refreshing reward after the hike. The clear water and stunning views make it a memorable experience.