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Mount Teurafaatiu

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Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)

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Mount Teurafaatiu is the crowning peak of Maupiti, rising 380 meters above the Pacific Ocean. This steep basalt formation provides a dramatic focal point for the island and is the ultimate destination for hikers seeking the best views in the Society Islands. The trail to the summit winds through lush greenery and over rocky outcrops, demanding some effort but offering an unparalleled reward. From the top, the entire circular lagoon of Maupiti is visible in shades of electric blue and turquoise, bordered by pristine white-sand motus and the crashing surf of the outer reef. On a clear day, one can even spot the distant peaks of Bora Bora across the water. The mountain captures the essence of Maupiti, a place of rugged natural beauty that remains largely untouched by large-scale tourism, offering a peaceful sanctuary for nature lovers.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828282727262626262727
Rain mm214183148126945944403576119220

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The trailhead for the island's highest point is easily accessible directly from the main road winding through the primary village of Maupiti, requiring no special vehicular transport.
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Best season
The climb is best undertaken during the breezy dry season from June to October, as the steep paths become dangerously slick and prone to rockfalls immediately after heavy tropical downpours.
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Terrain & paths
While relatively low at 380 meters, the trail is sharply inclined, transitioning from dense jungle pathways to exposed, craggy volcanic rock scrambles where you must often use your hands.
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What to bring
Proper gripping trail shoes are essential for the rocky sections; additionally, bring a hat, intense sunscreen, and at least two liters of water, as the upper slopes offer absolutely no shade.
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Parking
Bicycles and scooters, the most common forms of island transport, can be conveniently parked in the village near the clearly marked start of the hiking trail without any fees or hassle.
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Safety
The final scramble involves steep drop-offs and jagged rocks; those with a severe fear of heights should not attempt the summit ridge, and extreme caution is needed when descending.
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Time needed
Most fit visitors complete the challenging round trip in roughly three hours, though budgeting an extra hour to absorb the wide-open 360-degree lagoon views from the summit is highly recommended.

Geography

Coordinates
-16.44300, -152.26100

Facts

  • Elevation: 1,070 meters
  • Second highest peak on Ua Pou
  • Characterized by sharp ridges
  • Habitat for Marquesan rail
  • Average slope: >30 degrees
  • Part of a protected area

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Maupiti Manta Ray PointMaupiti Manta Ray Point1 km · NEExplore →
Fort de l'OuestFort de l'Ouest55 km · NExplore →
Marae MarotetiniMarae Marotetini56 km · NExplore →
Marae TaianapaMarae Taianapa57 km · NExplore →
Marae Vaiotaha (South Bora Bora)Marae Vaiotaha (South Bora Bora)57 km · NExplore →
Marae Fare OpuMarae Fare Opu58 km · NExplore →
Mount OtemanuMount Otemanu59 km · NExplore →
Marine Museum Bora BoraMarine Museum Bora Bora60 km · NExplore →

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 Teurafaatiu (10)

Marae Hoata-ite-ra'i

A traditional Polynesian ceremonial platform on Mount Teurafaatiu. Evidence of ancient culture and religious practices.

Marae Tai-fari'i

Archaeological site on Mount Teurafaatiu. Remains of a Polynesian marae, once a place for rituals and gatherings.

Te pito o na maeha'a

Archaeological site on Mount Teurafaatiu. The name means 'the navel of the stones', a site of cultural significance.

Sainte Bernadette⛪ church

A church on Mount Teurafaatiu, French Polynesia. Dedicated to Saint Bernadette, serves the Catholic community.

Palais de la mer

An attraction on Mount Teurafaatiu. The name means 'palace of the sea', possibly a place with a marine theme.

🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-16:00

Temple protestant de Maupiti

A Protestant temple on Mount Teurafaatiu. A place for services and community meetings for Protestants.

Terei'a

A beach on Mount Teurafaatiu. Has sand and access to the sea, suitable for swimming and relaxing.

Plage

A viewpoint on Mount Teurafaatiu. Provides a wide view of the coastline and the ocean.

Raies Manta

An attraction on Mount Teurafaatiu. Known for manta rays that can be spotted in the surrounding waters.

raie Manta

An attraction on Mount Teurafaatiu. Focuses on observing manta rays in their natural habitat.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the accessibility of the summit?
The summit is accessible via paths that partially lead through dense vegetation.
Is a lot of water needed for the climb?
Yes, due to high humidity, calculate at least 2-3 liters per person.
Are hiking boots with ankle protection advisable?
Yes, the uneven terrain makes ankle support very useful.
What is the best season?
The period from June to September provides the driest and coolest conditions.
Can you do the tour with children?
Only with very experienced older children; for small children, the path is too difficult.
Mount Teurafaatiu: where is it located?
Mount Teurafaatiu is located in French Polynesia.
Mount Teurafaatiu: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marae Hoata-ite-ra'i, Marae Tai-fari'i, Te pito o na maeha'a.
Mount Teurafaatiu: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mount Teurafaatiu: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Teurafaatiu is the crowning peak of Maupiti, rising 380 meters above the Pacific Ocean.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Faa'a — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Faa'a
Faa'a is the most populous commune in French Polynesia, located directly west of the capital Papeete.
Papeete — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Papeete
Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia and the primary economic hub located on the island of Tahiti.
Puna'auia — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Puna'auia
Puna'auia is a major residential commune on the west coast of Tahiti, known for its university and beaches.
Pirae — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Pirae
Pirae is an urban commune east of Papeete that hosts major medical and administrative facilities.
Paea — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Paea
Paea is a commune on the west coast of Tahiti, rich in archaeological sites and coral reefs.
Vaitape — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Vaitape
Vaitape is the largest town on Bora Bora and serves as the island's main commercial and administrative hub.
Paopao — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Paopao
Paopao is a village located at the base of the majestic Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea.
Haapiti — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Haapiti
Haapiti is a village on the southwest coast of Moorea, known for its cultural traditions and excellent surf spots.
Uturoa — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Uturoa
Uturoa is the administrative center of Raiatea island and the second most important town in French Polynesia after Papeete.
Afareaitu — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Afareaitu
Afareaitu is the administrative center of Moorea island, located on the island's picturesque eastern coast.
Teavaro — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Teavaro
Teavaro is a village in eastern Moorea, famous for its long white sand Temae beach and views of Tahiti.
Faanui — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Faanui
Faanui is a picturesque village on Bora Bora, located on a deep bay and possessing a rich history.
Papetoai — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Papetoai
Papetoai is a historic village on Moorea, located in Opunohu Bay and known for its octagonal church.
Tevaitoa — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Tevaitoa
Tevaitoa is the main village of the Tumaraa commune in southwest Raiatea, known for its tranquility.
Faie — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Faie
Faie is a small village on Huahine Nui, famous for its sacred blue-eyed eels.

History & landmarks

Uturoa Town Hall — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Uturoa Town Hall
The administrative building of Uturoa on Raiatea, the second-largest settlement in French Polynesia.

Nature

Maupiti Manta Ray Point — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Maupiti Manta Ray Point
Maupiti's lagoon hosts a resident population of manta rays.

More places

Papeete Town Hall — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Papeete Town Hall
Papeete Town Hall is a magnificent colonial-style building that resembles the former palace of Queen Pomare.
Vaitoare — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Vaitoare
Vaitoare is the main port in southern Taha'a and the gateway to the island of Raiatea.
Vaiare — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Vaiare
Vaiare is the primary port of Moorea and the main gateway for travelers arriving by ferry from Tahiti.
Maupiti Fishing Harbor — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Maupiti Fishing Harbor
Maupiti's harbor is crucial for the supply of the isolated island.
Fort de l'Ouest — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
Fort de l'Ouest
This former French fortification on Bora Bora served to defend the harbor entrance during the 19th century.
🗺️
Pofatuuraa Fort
This former defensive structure on Bora Bora offers a wide view over the ocean.
WWII Cannons of Bora Bora — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
WWII Cannons of Bora Bora
Eight US coastal cannons were installed on Bora Bora during WWII.
WWII Cannons Bora Bora — Mount Teurafaatiu (French Polynesia)
WWII Cannons Bora Bora
American coastal artillery cannons from WWII, strategically placed on the hills overlooking the Bora Bora lagoon.