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Fataua Valley Nature Area
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valley
Fataua Valley Nature Area on Tahiti is a 400-hectare valley with dense tropical forests and waterfalls. Located in the northeast of the island, it is known for rich birdlife including the Tahiti monarch (Pomarea nigra) and the Tahiti fruit dove (Ptilinopus purpuratus). The valley is traversed by several streams flowing into the Pacific. It is part of a larger protected area also encompassing coastal habitats. Vegetation includes fig trees, bamboo, and ferns. The hiking trail through the valley leads to viewpoints overlooking Papenoo Bay. The protected area was designated in 2005 by the local community to preserve water supply and biodiversity. Elevation ranges from sea level to 600 meters. Plans exist to designate the area as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Location: French Polynesia
- Top sights: Marae de Fautaua · résurrection · Chapelle biblique
- Nearby: Pirae (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 190 | 175 | 134 | 116 | 90 | 69 | 52 | 47 | 40 | 84 | 113 | 221 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to the valley usually begins near Papeete; frequently, a small permit or fee must be arranged in advance at the water authority. The actual hiking trail starts from a clearly marked entry gate.
Best season
During the dry season, the trails are significantly less slippery and hiking is considerably safer. After heavy rainfall, the famous waterfall is much more impressive, but the path there is often extremely muddy.
Terrain & paths
The path winds steadily uphill through very dense, sometimes damp tropical jungle. The terrain demands surefootedness, as hikers must navigate over exposed tree roots, wet stones, and uneven dirt paths.
What to bring
Good, slip-resistant footwear is absolutely crucial for this challenging jungle hike. Additionally, plenty of drinking water, reliable mosquito repellent, and light rain gear should not be missing from any daypack.
Parking
There are usually a few parking spaces available for visitors at the beginning of the access road or near the starting gate. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot for your rental car.
Safety
It is strongly advised never to leave the marked trail, as it is incredibly easy to get lost in the dense forest. Crossing the river can become highly risky or completely impossible following heavy downpours.
Time needed
For the round trip hike to the spectacular waterfall, one should allocate roughly three to four hours of total walking time. Those who take frequent breaks for photography and resting often spend half a day here.
Geography
Facts
- Protected area covers 400 hectares.
- It was designated in 2005.
- Elevation reaches 600 m.
- Tahiti monarch lives here.
- The valley is traversed by several streams.
- It is part of a larger protected area.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Fataua Valley Nature Area (9)
Papaihona
A mountain in France, located in the Fataua Valley.
Église adventiste du 7è jour Maranatha
A Seventh-day Adventist church in the Fataua Valley.
Pluviomètre
A viewpoint in the Fataua Valley, named after a rain gauge.
Le Pic Rouge
A mountain in France, known for its reddish rocks.
Toanui
A viewpoint in the Fataua Valley offering a panoramic vista.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Fataua Valley Nature Reserve easy to reach?
Access requires a permit and is physically demanding.
What is the highlight in the valley?
The impressive, huge waterfall.
Do you need a guide?
Yes, highly recommended due to difficult orientation.
When is the best hiking time?
Early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and rain showers.
Are there dangers?
Yes, risk of falling on steep cliffs when wet.
Fataua Valley Nature Area: where is it located?
Fataua Valley Nature Area is located in French Polynesia.
Fataua Valley Nature Area: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marae de Fautaua, résurrection, Chapelle biblique.
Fataua Valley Nature Area: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Fataua Valley Nature Area: why is it worth visiting?
Fataua Valley Nature Area on Tahiti is a 400-hectare valley with dense tropical forests and waterfalls.
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Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.
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Pirae
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Taravao
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Toahotu
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Paopao
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Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.
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