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Purpose of the trip:

Discover the center of the island, take a short and challenging hike to the hidden waterfall "Te puna pape o Teura vahine" (level difficult) located at the very heart of the island of Tahiti. Get a privileged insight into ancient Polynesian beliefs and sacred rituals, with knowledgeable Polynesian guides.

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This guided expedition  will allow you to explore part of the East coast of Tahiti before continuing 18km into the Papenoo valley, as far as "Fare Hape", archeological site comprising an ancient village and important ceremonial site. Since its restoration it has become a cultural center run by the Haururu Association. The Papenoo valley was historically one of the most densely populated parts of Tahiti. Your guide’s explanations of ancient customs will allow you to gain an insight into this sacred and hidden universe and maybe even feel the "mana " of the ancestors.

After a short hike, through luxuriant tropical vegetation, you can visit the " Te puna pape a Teura Vahine"…...bathe in this wild and little visited waterfall, then retrace your steps to the vehicle and journey back to Papeete.

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Please bring water, sandwich, bathing suit, towel and rain coat. 

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Excursion itinerary:

-Pick up at your hotel from 7h30 a.m. onwards from the pick up places, in the fully equipped 4x4 Nissan Patrol.

 

An early start is recommended to fully appreciate the sublime lighting and colors of the rising sun in the valley.

- A 18 km drive along the east coast to the mouth of the Papenoo valley, the largest valley on Tahiti.

- Multiple short stops along the length of the valley: panoramas and explanations about the waterfalls, « marae », accompanying legends and caldera (the "pito" or belly-button of Tahiti, the extinct volcanic crater).

-Short and challenging walk (20 min to get there and  20min back) to the "Te puna pape o Teura Vahine" waterfall (walk to the waterfall submitted to weather and natural conditions).

-Lunch stop: picnic by the river or waterfall with swimming,

- If the waterfall is not possible, visit instead the Fare Hape cultural site.

-Visit of the Fare Hape village, meet the "puhi" or eared-eels, visit the archaeological site (marae and petroglyphs) ; learn about traditional tattooing, etc.

-Stops for panoramas and photos on the return journey crossing the tunnel and the mountains to reach the other side ot the island in the district of Mataiea and back to your accommodation.

 

If the weather does not allow the walk, the tour will be modified in Vaihiria tour

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Points of interest:

Impressive panoramas

Get closer to nature and experience the pure mountain air

Learn about Tahiti’s plants and ancient culture

Learn some of Tahiti’s myths and legends

Short nature walk (level : difficult)

Swim stops at the river or waterfall

 

Level of difficulty:

Good walking conditions required to get to the hidden waterfall, as there is a steep terrain to get there and back, also you will cross the river through rocks a few times

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Not recommended for elders, people over 60, persons with health problems (please inform us), persons using a cane and young children. 

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