Mount Aorai Trail
A challenging, technical hike on Tahiti's third-highest peak, offering stunning panoramic views and a true test of endurance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Mount Aorai Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, technical hike on Tahiti's third-highest peak, offering stunning panoramic views and a true test of endurance.
"An unforgettable experience for mountain and nature lovers! The hike to Mount Aorai is breathtaking."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking boots with excellent grip. The trail is technical and can be slippery.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
This is a strenuous hike; staying hydrated is crucial for endurance and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Summit (2,066m)
Panoramic views of Tahiti, its lagoon, and surrounding valleys await at the peak. Truly unforgettable!
Refuge Stops
Te fare Mato (1,400m) & Te fare Ata (1,840m)
Two mountain huts offer resting points with serene views, often above the clouds.
Forest to Ridge Transition
Mid-trail
Experience the dramatic shift from dense forest to exposed ridges with breathtaking vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Technical Terrain
Hydration and Time Commitment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking boots with excellent grip. The trail is technical and can be slippery.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
This is a strenuous hike; staying hydrated is crucial for endurance and safety.
⏰ Start Before Sunrise
An early start (around 5:30 AM) helps you finish before dark and avoid the midday sun.
⚠️ Be Aware of Difficulty
Sections are challenging and require careful footing. Not for the faint of heart.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear hiking boots with excellent grip. The trail is technical and can be slippery.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
This is a strenuous hike; staying hydrated is crucial for endurance and safety.
⏰ Start Before Sunrise
An early start (around 5:30 AM) helps you finish before dark and avoid the midday sun.
⚠️ Be Aware of Difficulty
Sections are challenging and require careful footing. Not for the faint of heart.
☁️ Embrace the Cloud Level
At higher altitudes, you'll often hike through clouds, adding to the mystical experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Aorai is a highly rewarding but demanding hike, praised for its breathtaking summit views and challenging, technical terrain. While many find the experience unforgettable, its difficulty and exposure mean it's best suited for experienced hikers. Some visitors note the strenuous nature and potential for challenging conditions. +2
"It's a good one for trecking lovers...there are 3 stops at 600m, 900m and 1800 mts altitude...we reached only 900mts ..good view of city"
Nagendra badam
"Superb hike!!!
Completed in 10 hours, leaving at 5:30 a.m. with a headlamp, and arriving at 3:30 p.m.
We (trained but not experts) took 2 hours to reach the first refuge, then 2 hours to reach the second, then 1 hour to reach the summit. About 4.5 hours to descend.
Be careful, however, of the difficulty, especially between the two refuges, with sections where a misstep can send you falling several dozen meters.
This hike is recommended for the most experienced hikers.
Bring plenty of water."
Marine C
"An unforgettable experience for mountain and nature lovers! The hike to Mount Aoraï is breathtaking, both for the beauty of the landscapes and the challenge it represents. The trail winds through a dense forest before opening up to spectacular panoramas of the valleys and the ocean. The higher you climb, the more impressive the view becomes, until you reach the summit where you are rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of Tahiti and its lagoon. The climb is demanding, but every effort is worth it. The refuges along the way allow you to take a break and enjoy the peace and serenity of the heights. A must-do hike for anyone who wants to challenge themselves and discover Tahiti from a different perspective!"
Baptiste DARBOIS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the parking lot of the O'belvèdère restaurant. Access is typically via car or taxi from Papeete.
Public transport options are limited for reaching the trailhead directly. Hiring a taxi or arranging a private transfer is more common.
The drive involves winding roads as you ascend from the coast. Enjoy the scenic journey as you approach the mountains.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the O'belvèdère restaurant, which serves as the starting point for the hike.
Yes, it's possible as a very long day trip for experienced hikers, but many opt to camp at the refuges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access and hike the Mount Aorai trail.
The trail is generally accessible 24/7, but it's highly recommended to hike during daylight hours for safety.
No permit is required for hiking Mount Aorai. However, if you plan to camp at the refuges, it's wise to check local regulations.
The mountain huts (refuges) are available for overnight stays. It's advisable to inquire locally about booking procedures.
While not always advertised, local guides can sometimes be arranged for those seeking assistance on the challenging trail.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The ascent typically takes around 6 hours, with the descent taking about 4.5 hours. This can vary based on fitness.
It's considered a difficult and technical hike, with steep ascents, exposed ridges, and sections requiring careful navigation.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, comfortable athletic clothing, and layers for changing weather conditions.
Restrooms are typically available at the refuges along the trail, but not at the trailhead or along most of the path.
While possible, it's safer to hike with a companion due to the technical nature and potential for exposure. Inform someone of your plans.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
The O'belvèdère restaurant is located at the trailhead, offering a place to eat before or after your hike.
There are no facilities to purchase food or water on the trail itself. You must carry all your supplies.
Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and sandwiches. Ensure you have enough for the entire duration.
It's not guaranteed that potable water is available at the refuges. It's best to bring all the water you'll need.
You can stop at various points along the trail for a break and a snack, especially at the refuges.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views. Also, look for dramatic ridge shots and the unique cloud formations.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the landscape, while late afternoon can offer softer light.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a protective case for weather.
No specific restrictions on photography exist, but always be mindful of your surroundings and other hikers.
The refuges provide unique vantage points, often looking out over valleys or into the clouds, offering a different perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are considering a hike with children in Tahiti, it's advisable to look for less strenuous trails that offer beautiful scenery without the extreme technical challenges. Always prioritize safety and choose an activity that matches the physical capabilities of your entire family.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing all your own food and water for the entire trek. If you're not renting a car, research local bus routes or shared taxi options, though direct public transport to the trailhead can be limited. Camping at the refuges, if permitted and feasible, can also be a cost-effective way to break up the hike compared to hotel stays.
💑 Couples
Consider tackling the hike as a team, supporting each other through the tougher sections. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit together will be immense. Packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the refuges or the summit can add a romantic touch to this epic adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenging Ascent
The trail is known for its technicality. Hikers often encounter narrow paths with significant drop-offs, requiring a high degree of concentration and sure-footedness. Some sections may even involve ropes to aid in navigation. This is why sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip are non-negotiable.
Experienced hikers often recommend starting the ascent before dawn, around 5:30 AM, to maximize daylight hours and avoid the intense midday sun. This also allows for a more leisurely pace, especially if you plan to stop and enjoy the views or take breaks at the refuges.
Refuges and Resting Points
The second refuge, 'Te fare Ata,' is located at a higher altitude of 1,840 meters. The name 'Ata' translates to 'cloud' in Tahitian, aptly describing the frequent atmospheric conditions at this elevation. Hikers often find themselves enveloped in mist and clouds, creating an ethereal and serene atmosphere.
These refuges are more than just rest stops; they offer a chance to acclimatize, enjoy the tranquility of the mountains, and prepare for the final push to the summit. While they provide shelter, it's essential to carry all your own food and water, as amenities are minimal.
Summit Views and Beyond
The experience at the summit can be varied. On clear days, the visibility is exceptional, allowing you to fully appreciate the island's topography. However, it's also common to find yourself above the clouds, creating a surreal and otherworldly environment. This 'celestial world' offers a unique photographic opportunity and a profound sense of accomplishment.
While the summit is the primary goal, the journey itself is filled with visual rewards. The transition from lush forest to rugged, exposed ridges provides a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. Keep an eye out for unique flora and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow as you ascend.
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