Telephone: (689) 87 75 88 07
iaoranaexpeditions@gmail.com
Discover the real Tahiti
with a professional polynesian guide!
Purpose of the Expedition
Reach the freshwater pools overlooking the Fautaua waterfall, nestled above the bustling town of Papeete, following the trail which leads along the left-slope of the valley and river, passing the historic remains of "Fort Fachoda" and the “Governor’s Garden”.
Along the way, let your guide teach you about the huge variety of different plants growing beside the path, and their many traditional uses by Polynesians. Immerse yourself in the dense tropical vegetation, enjoy the superb views before finally discovering the sunny plateau with its pools of cool crystalline freshwater.
Expedition itinerary
- 8 a.m meeting at the entry gate to the Fautaua Valley (SPEA), after “le bain Loti” (Loti’s bath) and the bust of Pierre Loti. Pickup times from your hotel or the Tahiti Tourist Information Center (Fare Manihini, Papeete waterfront) can vary and will be given to you on an individual basis.
-An hour’s hike along the riverbank on a flat and shady path as far as "Tearape" bridge, your guide will teach you about the flora, Polynesian plant uses, legends and stories about the valley.
-About an hour’s climb along a well traced path through tropical vegetation, before a short stop at a viewpoint with different views over the waterfall…....
-A 20-minute climb to the remains of Fort Fachoda (at 360m altitude) then take a natural slide down into the deep and clear freshwater pool which overlooks the waterfall.
- Another 20 minutes of walking on a slight slope to the Governor’s Garden with its freshwater pools.
-Lunch break for 1 to 1:30 hours with a chance to swim
-Start the return journey around 1 p.m.
-A 45 minute to 1 hour descent to the Tearape bridge
-Stop at the Fautaua " marae"(sacred site) after crossing the river, learn about the ancient Polynesian religion and cultural traditions.
-Arrive back at the entry gate between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Level of difficulty
Easy, accessible to all tourists in reasonable physical condition
Easy hiking on flat terrain for the first third of the walk, then a slightly steeper hiking trail for the rest of the hike, on a well-maintained and established trail.
Please take extra care when hiking the return journey, as you may be a little tired.
Special conditions
If the weather is bad, the outing will be cancelled for your safety.
Fautaua's hike is a superb nature hike in tropical and typical vegetation , just 5mn from the center of Papeete
Practical advices
Good walking shoes, small bag pack, bring your own sandwich or pic nic, bottle of water, light jacket, hat or cap, anti mosquito lotion, solar cream.
For a successfull hike: have a good breakfast in the morning and follow the guide's instructions !
Fare includes:
Guided safe walk
Entrance fee to the park
Fare does not include:
Food and beverage
If you book the transfer from and to your hotel and did not plan any picnic basket , a stop at a retail shop will be done before entering the valley, so that you could buy food (sandwiches or local specialities) and drinks.
Our guide will be happy to advise you.