Marae Ti'i-rua
Marae Ti'i-rua: Echoes of Ancient Polynesia
Mo'orea: The Magical Island
Discover Mo'orea: a breathtaking Polynesian island with lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures. Your tropical escape awaits!
Mo'orea, a volcanic island in French Polynesia, enchants visitors with its dramatic mountain peaks, lush valleys, and serene bays. A short ferry ride from Tahiti, it offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mo'orea
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Moorea-Maiao, PF
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Getting There
Ferry
The most common way to reach Mo'orea is by taking a fast ferry from Papeete, Tahiti. Ferries depart from the Papeete Ferry Terminal and arrive at the Vaiare Wharf in Mo'orea. Two main ferry operators, Aremiti and Terevau, offer frequent services throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. A one-way adult ticket costs between $15 and $30. Round-trip tickets are also available for around $27. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ferry terminal. Parking is available at the Papeete Ferry Terminal. A prepaid parking card costs 500 XPF. From the Vaiare Wharf in Mo'orea, you can rent a car, scooter, or take a taxi to your accommodation. Some hotels offer shuttle services.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the Vaiare Wharf and the airport. They can also be called from hotels. Taxi fares in Mo'orea start at 1,500 XPF, with an additional 130 XPF per kilometer. A 5km ride will cost approximately 651 XPF. Night fares (8 PM to 6 AM) have an additional charge. For example, a taxi from the ferry terminal to Cook's Bay area will cost around 2,000 XPF. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Local tips
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Visit during the dry season (May-October) for sunny days and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
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Rent a car or scooter to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
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Take a lagoon tour to swim with stingrays and sharks, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs.
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Hike to Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay.
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Try local food trucks for an authentic taste of Moorea.
Discover more about Mo'orea
Mo'orea, whose ancient name was Aimeho, is a heart-shaped island located just 17 km northwest of Tahiti. The island is a geographical marvel, characterized by eight majestic mountain peaks rising from a translucent lagoon. These peaks create a dramatic silhouette visible from Tahiti's western coast. The name Mo'orea translates to "yellow lizard".
Polynesians first settled Mo'orea around 800 AD. European explorers arrived in the 18th century, with Captain James Cook anchoring in Opunohu Bay in 1777. In 1842, France colonized the island, making it part of French Polynesia.
Today, Mo'orea is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, verdant tropical forests, and sparkling waters. Visitors can explore the island's natural beauty through various activities, including hiking to Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of Cook's and Opunohu Bays, swimming with stingrays and sharks in the lagoon, and taking ATV tours through pineapple fields. The island also offers cultural experiences such as visiting ancient marae (temples) and attending Polynesian dance shows.
Mo'orea is more affordable compared to Bora Bora and Tahiti. The island offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious overwater bungalows to charming beach bungalows. Getting to Mo'orea is easy, with frequent fast ferry services from Papeete, Tahiti.
A brief summary to Mo'orea
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