Mount Tapioi

Mount Tapioi is the most iconic viewpoint on the island of Raiatea, towering directly above the town of Uturoa. Reaching an elevation of 294 meters, the summit is accessible via a steady hike along a service road, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking panoramic vistas without an arduous climb. From the top, the reward is a dramatic 360-degree view of the spirited lagoon, the intricate coral reef systems, and the neighboring island of Taha'a, which shares the same protective reef. On clear days, the distant peaks of Bora Bora and Huahine can be spotted on the horizon. The trail provides a unique perspective on the island's geography, highlighting the deep blue ocean passes and the lush, mountainous interior that makes Raiatea the spiritual heart of French Polynesia. It is widely considered the best spot on the island for photography, capturing the impressive contrast between the emerald-green slopes and the kaleidoscopic blues of the Pacific waters.

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.

Paea

Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.

Vaitape

Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.

Paopao

Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.

Haapiti

Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.

Uturoa

Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.

Afareaitu

Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.

Teavaro

Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.

Faanui

Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.

Papetoai

Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.

Tevaitoa

Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.

Faie

Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall

The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Uturoa Public Library

An important educational center on Raiatea.

Nature

Faaroa River

The Faaroa River on Raiatea is the only navigable river in French Polynesia.

Faaroa River Nature Reserve

The Faaroa is the only navigable river in French Polynesia.

More places

Papeete Town Hall

Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.

Vaitoare

Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.

Vaiare

Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.

Uturoa War Memorial

A monument in Uturoa on Raiatea honoring the victims of the World Wars.

Uturoa Port

Uturoa is the second most important commercial center after Papeete.

Marae Tainuu

Located on the west coast of Raiatea, this marae is known for its impressive stone wall.

Marae Tainuu (Tevaitoa)

Another significant marae in Tevaitoa on Raiatea, known for its religious importance.

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Marae Vaiahu (Tevaitoa)

This marae in Tevaitoa on Raiatea was a center for rituals of the local nobility.