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Mount Marau
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Mountain
Mount Marau rises to an elevation of 1,493 meters, overlooking the capital city of Papeete and forming a prominent part of the skyline of northwest Tahiti. The mountain is widely recognized for its strategic role as the primary site for the island's telecommunication towers and television transmitters. A winding mountain road reaches nearly to the summit, making it one of the few high-altitude areas on the island accessible by vehicle. Hikers frequent the ridge trails for the commanding views they offer over the neighboring island of Moorea and the lush Fautaua Valley. The environment near the top is characterized by montane cloud forest, providing a habitat for rare endemic ferns and birds that are not found in the lower tropical coastal regions.
- Location: French Polynesia
- Top sights: Rampe parapente · Toanui · Ma manu
- Nearby: Puna'auia (6 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
The mountain can be accessed via a winding mountain road starting from the commune of Faa'a near Papeete. Due to rough conditions, a sturdy 4x4 vehicle is usually required to drive up to the high ridge.
Best season
The dry season, spanning May to October, is preferable to ensure the road is not washed out. Visiting early in the morning during these months maximizes your chances of a clear view of the neighboring islands.
Terrain & paths
If you choose to hike rather than drive the full way, you will follow a rugged, unpaved road. The paths crossing the ridges are exposed, occasionally muddy, and flanked by typical dense fern vegetation.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear is necessary regardless of whether you walk the entire route. A windbreaker is strongly recommended as temperatures drop and winds increase significantly near the telecommunication towers.
Parking
You can generally park near the telecommunication installations at the top if driving. If hiking from lower down, look for safe pull-outs along the mountain dirt road to leave your vehicle securely.
Safety
Driving the road requires a capable vehicle and an experienced driver due to deep ruts and steep drop-offs. Hikers should remain cautious of approaching vehicles and sudden drops in weather conditions.
Time needed
Driving up usually takes about an hour each way from the coast. A full hike from the lower slopes can easily become a comprehensive six to eight-hour trek depending on the exact starting location chosen.
Geography
Facts
- Mount Marau is 1,493 meters high.
- It is the second highest mountain on Tahiti.
- The mountain is located in central Tahiti Nui.
- Climbing takes 6-8 hours.
- The protected area covers 50 square kilometers.
- The mountain is of volcanic origin.
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 Mount Marau (4)
Pluviomètre
Viewpoint in French Polynesia. Location of a rain gauge.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is parking easy at Mont Marau?
There are limited parking spaces at the start of the trails; arrive early in the morning.
How long does an average tour take?
Plan for about 5 to 7 hours for the ascent and descent including breaks.
Does the mountain offer good photo opportunities?
Yes, the summit gives a panoramic view over Tahiti and the Pacific Ocean.
Is the trail suitable for families with children?
Due to the steep terrain, the tour is more suitable for older, active children.
Are there dining options on the mountain?
No, bring enough water and provisions as there are no supplies along the way.
Mount Marau: where is it located?
Mount Marau is located in French Polynesia.
Mount Marau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Rampe parapente, Toanui, Ma manu.
Mount Marau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mount Marau: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Marau rises to an elevation of 1,493 meters, overlooking the capital city of Papeete and forming a prominent part of the skyline of northwest Tahiti.
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Nearby cities
Faa'a
Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.
Papeete
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.
Puna'auia
Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.
Pirae
Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.
Mahina
Mahina is a coastal commune in northern Tahiti, famous for the historical Point Venus and black sand beaches.
Paea
Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.
Papara
Papara is an extensive commune on the southern coast of Tahiti, known for its agriculture and wide beaches.
Arue
Arue is a commune in northeastern Tahiti that offers a mix of industrial areas and exclusive residential neighborhoods.
Taravao
Taravao is a strategically important town located on the isthmus connecting the two peninsulas of Tahiti.
Toahotu
Toahotu is a commune at the entrance of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and coconut groves.
Afaahiti
Afaahiti is a commune on the Tahiti Iti peninsula, bordering the important commercial center of Taravao.
Mataiea
Mataiea is a village in southern Tahiti known for its lush vegetation and historical links to Paul Gauguin.
Mataiea
Mataiea is a picturesque coastal commune on the southern shore of Tahiti, renowned for its lush botanical gardens and serene beaches.
Paopao
Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.
Papeari
Papeari is a coastal village on Tahiti famous for its natural beauty and the Paul Gauguin Museum.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Papeete Town Hall
Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.
Vaiare
Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.
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Fataua Valley Nature Area
This valley near Papeete is known for its dense rainforest and the spectacular Fataua Waterfall.
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Marae Orohiti
This marae in the Paea region of Tahiti was once the scene of important social events.
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Marae Ta'ata
This sacred site in Paea consists of three large stone terraces.
Marae of Tahiti West Coast
Numerous smaller marae representing local clans are found along Tahiti's west coast.