Mount Rotui Nature Area

Mount Rotui is the central crown of Moorea, soaring 899 meters high and dividing the spectacular Cook's Bay from Opunohu Bay. Its sheer, emerald-green ridges are deeply fluted, creating a dramatic silhouette that is best admired from the Belvedere Lookout. Geologically, it is a remnant of the massive volcano that formed the island millions of years ago, and its fertile slopes are now a sanctuary for rare highland flora. In Tahitian mythology, Mount Rotui holds a sacred status; it was believed to be the place where the spirits of the dead gathered before departing for the legendary homeland of Raiatea. The lower slopes and surrounding valleys are carpeted with vast pineapple plantations, producing the sweet fruit for which Moorea is famous. For adventurers, the trails around Rotui's base wind through dense tropical forests and ancient stone temples (marae), offering dramatic views of the turquoise lagoons and the jagged peaks of the interior.

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

Cook's Bay

Cook's Bay is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world, located on Moorea.

Nature

Mount Tohivea

Mount Tohivea is the highest peak on the island of Moorea, reaching an elevation of 1,207 meters.

Mount Rotui

Mount Rotui rises majestically between the two large bays of Moorea island.

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.

Opunohu Valley

Opunohu Valley on Moorea is a fertile volcanic valley surrounded by towering peaks.

Marae Ahu-o-Mahine

Located near Marae Titiroa on Moorea, this site impresses with its three-tiered stone platform.

Opunohu Temple

A small Protestant church in the picturesque Opunohu Valley on Moorea.