Plizio Visual Lab

Mount Muake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

peak

Weather…

Mount Muake stands approximately 400 meters above Taiohae Bay on the island of Nuku Hiva, serving as the primary natural lookout point for the capital. This volcanic peak is part of a rugged ridge that encircles the settlement, providing a dramatic backdrop to the coastal landscape. Reaching the summit involves navigating a steep, winding road that is accessible by 4WD vehicles or via a challenging hike for those seeking exercise. From the top, the panoramic view encompasses the deep blue waters of the Pacific, the harbor entrance, and the lush green valleys characteristic of the Marquesas Islands. The mountain has gained international recognition among paragliders, as the local thermal currents offer first-rate conditions for soaring over the bay. In the evening, the viewpoint is a popular gathering spot for both locals and travelers to witness the sunset, which paints the surrounding cliffs and the ocean in lively hues.

Location: French Polynesia
Top sights: Monument aux Morts · Fort Collette · Temple Protestant
Nearby: Hakahau (37 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	27	28	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	27
Rain mm	42	29	60	53	40	25	28	16	15	16	28	19

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The launch site and viewpoint are accessible by an uphill dirt and gravel road leading out of Taiohae. Depending on road conditions, it can be driven directly with a robust 4x4 or hiked from the valley below.

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Best season

To enjoy the spectacular views without dense cloud cover, visit during the dry season from May to October. Avoid rainy days entirely, as the unpaved approach road can become dangerously slick and impassable.

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Terrain & paths

If hiking, you will mostly follow the vehicular track which provides a steady but tiring incline. The summit area is an open grassy slope, maintained primarily to facilitate safe paragliding take-offs.

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What to bring

Basic walking shoes are adequate if you stick to the road. Bring ample sun protection, sunglasses, and a camera, as the open grassy summit gives very little shade to hide from the strong midday sunlight.

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Parking

Drivers can normally park directly at or very near the grassy paragliding launch zone. Ensure your vehicle is parked considerately so it does not interfere with the local pilots preparing their wing equipment.

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Safety

The primary hazard is exposure to the hot sun and potential dehydration during a mid-day walk. Stay clear of the direct launch path when paragliders are active, and watch out for vehicles moving on the dirt tracks.

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Time needed

Driving up and enjoying the view takes around one to two hours total. If you choose to hike from the main bay in Taiohae, anticipate a round trip requiring roughly three to four hours depending on your walking pace.

Geography

Coordinates

-8.91670, -140.10000

Facts

Mount Muake is 950 meters high.
It is located on Nuku Hiva Island.
The mountain is of volcanic origin.
The summit offers a 360-degree view.
The hike to the summit takes about 4 hours.
The endemic Marquesas myrtle grows here.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Notre Dame Cathedral Nuku Hiva<1 km · SWExplore →

Paeke Archaeological Site3 km · NWExplore →

Tohua Hikokua4 km · WExplore →

Marae Kamuihei6 km · SWExplore →

Toovii Plateau6 km · WExplore →

Vaipo Nature Area7 km · SExplore →

Taipivai Valley9 km · NWExplore →

Mount Atiheu9 km · WExplore →

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 Mount Muake (10)

Monument aux Morts

War memorial on Nuku Hiva, commemorating the fallen of the world wars.

Fort Collette

Former fort on Nuku Hiva, built in 1813 by Commodore Porter, later French. Today only a navigation marker remains.

Temple Protestant

Protestant church on Nuku Hiva, used by the local reformed community.

Pae Pae Piki Vehine

Archaeological site on Nuku Hiva, remains of a traditional Polynesian platform.

Cimetière de la famille Royale

Royal family cemetery on Nuku Hiva, burial site of local chiefs.

Old church gate

Ruins of an old church gate on Nuku Hiva, only stone pillars remain.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Taiohae

Cathedral on Nuku Hiva, seat of the Diocese of Taiohae.

Royaume de Jéhovah

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses on Nuku Hiva.

Chapelle de l'hopital

Chapel at the hospital in Taiohae on Nuku Hiva, for patients and staff.

Musee de rose corser🏛 museum

Museum on Nuku Hiva, dedicated to local history and culture.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Mount Muake developed for tourists?

No, it is largely untouched and not a destination for mass tourism.

Do you need a permit?

Often the consent of landowners or village elders is required.

Is the terrain safe for hikers?

Only accessible with very good navigation and local knowledge.

What views does the mountain offer?

Unique views over the rugged landscape of the island.

Are there water sources?

Yes, but they are hard to find; bring enough water with you.

Mount Muake: where is it located?

Mount Muake is located in French Polynesia.

Mount Muake: what is there to see?

Highlights include Monument aux Morts, Fort Collette, Temple Protestant.

Mount Muake: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.

Mount Muake: why is it worth visiting?

Mount Muake stands approximately 400 meters above Taiohae Bay on the island of Nuku Hiva, serving as the primary natural lookout point for the capital.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →