Fautaua Valley & Waterfall
An epic adventure through lush jungle to one of French Polynesia's most impressive waterfalls, featuring historical ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Fautaua Valley & Waterfall
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An epic adventure through lush jungle to one of French Polynesia's most impressive waterfalls, featuring historical ruins.
"This hike was epic. Don’t give up! Keep going.... the end is fantastic."
✅ Secure Your Permit First
Essential for waterfall access. Get it from the Papeete mayor's office before you go.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trekking shoes with good grip are vital for river crossings and climbs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fautaua Waterfall
End of the valley trail
One of French Polynesia's most impressive waterfalls, a rewarding sight after a challenging trek.
Historical Ruins
Along the valley trail
Discover ancient Polynesian forts and marae, offering a glimpse into the valley's rich past.
Lush Vegetation
Fautaua Valley
Immerse yourself in the vibrant, tropical flora that lines the path through this stunning valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit Required for Waterfall Trek
Prepare for a Challenging Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Secure Your Permit First
Essential for waterfall access. Get it from the Papeete mayor's office before you go.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trekking shoes with good grip are vital for river crossings and climbs.
What is the best way to spend a few free days?
Fautaua Falls Permit
💧 Pack for Water Crossings
Be prepared to wade and jump across rivers. A dry bag for electronics is wise.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The waterfall hike can take 5 hours round trip. Start early to avoid returning after dark.
Can I use a scooter to get to Fautaua Falls trailhead?
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Secure Your Permit First
Essential for waterfall access. Get it from the Papeete mayor's office before you go.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trekking shoes with good grip are vital for river crossings and climbs.
💧 Pack for Water Crossings
Be prepared to wade and jump across rivers. A dry bag for electronics is wise.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
The waterfall hike can take 5 hours round trip. Start early to avoid returning after dark.
🌿 Respect the Environment
Stay on the trail where marked and pack out everything you pack in.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe the Fautaua Waterfall hike as an epic, challenging adventure, with many emphasizing the need for a permit and proper preparation. While the trek is demanding, the stunning waterfall and historical ruins are considered well worth the effort by those who complete it.
"You need a permit from the mayor's office to hike up the valley, but it is well worth the journey. There is a little of everything: beautiful vegetation, historical ruins (fort and marae), mountain peaks, and one of the most impressive waterfalls in all of French Polynesia"
Paul Perrin
"Great place for a walk, gets pretty exciting if you continue to the water fall. Proceed with caution and a license from the town hall in Papeete. For the waterfall walk good footwear is essential. Good situational awareness, track finding, common sense required."
martin rigby
"This is NOT a normal hike. If you go to the waterfall, be prepared for something that will test your endurance, your penchant for suffering and your sense of direction. I have never done anything like it and I've hiked trails around the world.
You need a permit to hike to the waterfall, and there's a good reason. The trail stops being marked about halfway through. You have to cross the river several times, and there are NOT designated crossings. You have to jump across stones, logs and wade through the water. There are several areas you'll need to climb the rocks. Some have support, some don't. Bring a change of clothes and be sure you have a way to keep your cellphone dry. It also takes about 5 hours round trip, if you're moving quickly, so leave plenty of time to get back before sundown.
I'm telling you, do not play around with this trail. It's not for the faint of heart. At all. It was an adventure unlike anything I've ever experienced before."
Real Estate Mike
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fautaua Valley is accessible from Papeete, Tahiti. You can typically reach the trailhead by taxi or rental car. The initial walk into the valley is relatively straightforward before the more challenging sections begin.
The hike to the Fautaua Waterfall is considered very difficult and not for the faint of heart. It involves river crossings, rock climbing, and unmarked trails.
For the waterfall trek, it's recommended to have good hiking experience and be prepared for an adventurous journey. A guided tour might be an option for those less experienced with challenging trails.
While you can drive to the general vicinity of Fautaua Valley, the actual hike to the waterfall requires you to proceed on foot. The trailhead is usually accessible by vehicle.
Taxis or rental cars are common ways to reach the Fautaua Valley trailhead from Papeete. Once on the trail, it's all about your own two feet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit from the Papeete mayor's office is mandatory to hike to the Fautaua Waterfall.
Permits for the Fautaua Waterfall hike must be obtained from the mayor's office in Papeete.
Information on permit costs can be obtained directly from the Papeete mayor's office. It's advisable to inquire in advance.
While there might not be strict opening hours for the valley itself, it's crucial to plan your hike to finish before dark due to the challenging nature of the trail.
No, a permit is required for the Fautaua Waterfall hike. Attempting to hike without one may result in being turned away or facing penalties.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is an adventure involving multiple river crossings, wading, rock climbing, and navigating unmarked sections. It's physically demanding and requires good problem-solving skills.
The round trip to Fautaua Waterfall typically takes about 5 hours if you are moving quickly. It's advised to allocate sufficient time.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, quick-drying clothing, and consider bringing a change of clothes.
The trail is only marked for about half the way. Beyond that, you'll need to rely on your sense of direction and observation skills.
The valley contains historical ruins, including a fort and marae, offering a glimpse into ancient Polynesian culture.
📸 📸 Photography
The Fautaua Waterfall itself is a spectacular subject. The lush vegetation and historical ruins also offer unique photographic opportunities.
It's advisable to use a waterproof camera or ensure your phone is protected in a dry bag, as you will be crossing rivers and may get wet.
Landscape photography capturing the waterfall and the dense jungle, as well as historical site photography, would be ideal.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in Fautaua Valley.
Early morning light can be beautiful, but be mindful of the time needed to complete the hike before sunset. Midday can be harsh but offers good visibility.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎒 Adventure Seekers & Experienced Hikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fautaua Waterfall Trek: An Adventurer's Guide
Essential preparation includes wearing sturdy, grippy footwear and quick-drying clothing. A dry bag for your phone and other electronics is highly recommended, as getting wet is almost guaranteed.
Despite the challenges, the reward is one of the most impressive waterfalls in French Polynesia.
Historical Significance of Fautaua Valley
Exploring these ruins adds a layer of cultural depth to the hiking experience. It’s a chance to reflect on the historical importance of the valley, which has likely served various purposes throughout different eras, from sacred grounds to strategic locations. The presence of these structures underscores the enduring human connection to this dramatic natural setting.
While the primary draw for many is the waterfall, taking time to appreciate the historical elements scattered throughout the valley enhances the overall visit. It transforms the trek from a physical challenge into a journey through both nature and time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit