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Marae Titiroa

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

ruins

Weather…

Marae Titiroa is a significant ancestral site tucked away within the verdant Opunohu Valley on the island of Moorea. This sacred Polynesian outdoor temple served as a focal point for religious rituals and tribal gatherings before the arrival of Europeans. Constructed from dark volcanic basalt rocks, the marae features distinct courtyards and upright stones that once marked the presence of gods and chiefs. The site was meticulously excavated and restored in the mid-20th century, revealing the sophisticated stonework of the 15th-century inhabitants. Shaded by ancient, towering banyan trees, the ruins exude a powerful sense of history and spirituality. Visitors can follow an educational trail that connects Titiroa to other nearby marae, providing a comprehensive look at the valley's ancient social hierarchy and spiritual landscape. It remains a place of great cultural importance, symbolizing the enduring connection between the Tahitian people and their ancestral lands.

Location: French Polynesia
Top sights: Three Pine Trees Lookout · Pineapple field · Marae Ahu o Mahine
Nearby: Paopao (5 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	28	28	28	28	27	27	26	26	26	26	27	27
Rain mm	185	171	130	115	88	68	52	48	39	82	114	218

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Marae Titiroa in the Opunohu Valley on Moorea is part of an archaeological trail and freely accessible. The path goes through dense forest - sturdy shoes recommended.

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Typical hours

The archaeological trail is accessible during daytime; no fixed hours. Best to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the heat.

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Photography

Photography is allowed along the entire trail. Use the natural light filtering through the canopy for atmospheric shots of the stone structures.

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Time needed

Allow about 1-1.5 hours for the entire archaeological trail, including the marae visit. The hike is moderately strenuous.

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Combine with

Combine the hike with a visit to Belvédère viewpoint or a pineapple plantation on Moorea. A trip to Cook's Bay is also recommended.

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Getting there

The trailhead is on the road into Opunohu Valley, about 15 minutes from the ferry terminal in Vaiare. A rental car or scooter is practical.

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Insider tip

Wear insect repellent and long clothing as there are many mosquitoes in the forest. Bring a small flashlight in case you stay longer.

Geography

Coordinates

-17.53020, -149.82550

Facts

The marae is a highlight of the Opunohu Valley archaeological trail.
It was carefully restored by archaeologist Kenneth Emory in the 1960s.
The stone platforms served as the sacred base for wooden structures.
Upright stones served as ceremonial backrests for high-ranking chiefs.
The site is surrounded by massive banyan trees and Tahitian chestnuts.
Over 100 other archaeological remains are scattered in the immediate vicinity.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marae Ahu-o-Mahine<1 km · WExplore →

Opunohu Valley Nature Area2 km · SExplore →

Mount Tohivea2 km · NWExplore →

Mount Rotui Nature Area3 km · WExplore →

Mount Mouaputa3 km · NWExplore →

Opunohu Valley3 km · SWExplore →

Cook's Bay4 km · WExplore →

Marae Umarea4 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Marae Titiroa (10)

Three Pine Trees Lookout

Viewpoint overlooking Cook's Bay and the mountains of Moorea.

Pineapple field

Pineapple field on Moorea offering a wide view across the island.

Marae Ahu o Mahine

Archaeological site of a traditional Polynesian marae on Moorea.

Marae i te Ti'i Roa

Ruins of an ancient Polynesian ceremonial site in the interior of Moorea.

Marae i Afare'aito

Remains of a marae, a traditional Polynesian place of worship on Moorea.

Belvedere Lookout

Hilltop viewpoint with panoramic views over Opunohu Bay.

Église évangélique de Pentecôte

Evangelical Pentecostal church on Moorea, a place for worship services.

Tohi'e'a

Tohi'e'a is a mountain on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia.

Mt Rotu'i

Mt Rotu'i is a mountain on the island of Moorea.

Street Art

Murals and graffiti on buildings along the roads of Moorea.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is admission free?

Yes, access to this historical site is generally free.

Are there restrooms?

No, there are no public restrooms or facilities directly on site.

Is sturdy footwear necessary?

Yes, due to the uneven ground, sturdy shoes are highly recommended.

Can I touch the stones?

Please respect the cultural heritage and do not touch or climb on the ancient structures.

How do I find the place?

The place is in the island's interior; it's best to use GPS or ask locals.

Marae Titiroa: where is it located?

Marae Titiroa is located in French Polynesia.

Marae Titiroa: what is there to see?

Highlights include Three Pine Trees Lookout, Pineapple field, Marae Ahu o Mahine.

Marae Titiroa: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Marae Titiroa: why is it worth visiting?

Marae Titiroa is a significant ancestral site tucked away within the verdant Opunohu Valley on the island of Moorea.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →