Many tourists traveling to French Polynesia tend to underestimate Tahiti and leave without exploring it. I recommend spending at least a day on the island and checking out its top places. One of these places is Faarumai Waterfalls.
There are many waterfalls in Tahiti, but the Faarumai Waterfalls stands out as the most famous and worth-visiting spot due to its easy accessibility.
This place is perfect for a little adventure into nature away from Papeete. It’s not far and there are other sites too that you can visit along the way, which makes for a great road trip.
In this guide, I’ve covered everything you need to know about the Three Cascades of Fa’aruma’i, so you can get a good sense of the place and decide if it’s right for you.
What is Faarumai Waterfalls?
Faarumai Waterfalls is a group of three waterfalls located east of Tahiti in Tiarei Village. The main attraction is the Vaimahuta Fall, which has a vertical drop of 262 feet (80 m). Haamaremare Rahi is the tallest of the three, reaching a height of approximately 328 feet (100 m). The third one Haamaremare Iti stands at 131 feet (40 m), which isn’t as high as others, but still it’s a stunning sight.
The waterfalls are fed by the rainwater and mountain streams that channel down the cliff and form the waterfalls. The runoff then feeds the Faarumai River which meanders through the valley and village and flows into the ocean.
Falls are in the beautiful valley of Faarumai and you get picturesque scenery all around. Watching the Vaimahuta Falls plunge is simply breathtaking. Scenes are even more amazing when water is flowing heavily. The mist creates a magical atmosphere and gives you a refreshing escape in Tahiti’s tropical climate.
There’s small ground around the waterfall pool from where you can watch it all. Despite the warning sign against swimming, some people still take a dip. So you can too if you really desire it but beware and avoid going directly under the falls as there is a risk of rocks falling from the cliff.
The good thing is that usually there aren’t many people here, which makes it a perfect place if you’re looking for a peaceful place with stunning waterfall views or a nice family hangout.
If you’re done with the first waterfall (Vaimahuta Falls), the other two (Haamaremare Rahi & Haamaremare Iti) are just a 15 minute walk away.
Unfortunately, you can’t get close to these falls, but there’s an observation deck from which you can watch the water cascade down. They are side by side and look like twins. It’s definitely worth the walk to snap some great photos and enjoy a hike through the jungle.
Faarumai Waterfalls legend
The legend goes like “There was a chiefly family lived in Ti’arei Valley. They had a daughter who was said to be the prettiest girl in the valley. Her name was Fa’uai and was 17. She was a tapu (taboo) girl because her father had forbidden her from speaking to or interacting with boys her age. Anyone who approached her without permission faced death. Despite this, her singing unintentionally attracted boys to her.
One day, she decided to go picking flowers in the valley, as usual accompanied by her guards. On her way, she met Tua, a young man. He grabbed the flowers from Fa’uai and fled. The guards chased him down and killed him. This made Fa’uai very upset.
Not long after, her mother fell ill and she was asked to pick some medicinal plants from the valley. While doing so, she met a young man her age named Ivi. He told her that he was also searching for medicinal plants. They quietly slipped between the bushes, and Fa’uai instructed the guards to stay back.
While whispering, she told Ivi about her isolation and misery and expressed her desire to escape with him from her father. When the guards realized that she was missing, they began searching for her. Ivi terrified of being caught asked her to split up but Fa’uai refused and said you’ve to hide me and we’ll live together forever.
Hearing this, Ivi revealed his secret of being a wizard of the valley. In the meantime, guards approached and were about to catch them, a deafening sound was heard and a waterfall suddenly appeared, hiding Fa’uai and Ivi behind it. They remained hidden and lived happily together behind the waterfall ever since.
It’s said that on some nights of full moon, we can see 2 fluorescent figures on the rock behind the two waterfalls. That’s why the waterfalls are named Haamaremare Rahi and Haamaremare iti which means to make fluorescents.
The guards were also curtained by the water on their way back which revealed the third waterfall Vaimahuta Fall, which means water that surprises or passes over.
The chief mourned the loss of his daughter for the rest of his life. Because of this, the valley came to be known as Faarumai which means to bear or to endure.”
Source: Tahiti Heritage
How to get to Faarumai Waterfalls?
Faarumai Waterfalls is easy to get to. It’s about 14 miles from Papeete and takes around 30 minutes to drive there.
The route is quite straightforward. Drive east on the main road from Papeete and when you spot the sign for 3 Cascade de Faarumai, turn right onto a narrow road. This road passes through a small village, so drive carefully there. After a few minute drive, you’ll reach the parking lot at the end.
There’s a food stall in the parking area in case you’re feeling hungry and want to grab something to eat.
The road to the falls’ is mostly paved, so you won’t need a 4×4. A regular car will do just fine.
Going by bus
Buses are the cheapest choice to get to Fa’aruma’i Waterfalls, costing 1-2 US dollars. They run every hour around the island and some inland areas, but they don’t go straight to the waterfalls. So you’ll have to ask the driver to stop at the waterfalls sign on the main road.
You can also stop at Arahoho Blowhole which is right by the road. This way, you can see both the blowhole and the waterfalls on your trip. And if you’re in the mood for some beach time, Tiarei Beach is just 2 miles away from the waterfalls.
From there, you’ll either have to hitchhike or walk about a mile to reach the waterfalls.
So if you’re okay with this long walk, by all means go for the bus. Otherwise, you might want to rent a car or book a taxi, though those are a lot more expensive than the bus.
Vahimuta Falls trail
The first waterfall you’ll probably walk to is Vaimahuta Falls. You can even see it from the parking lot.
The trail to Vahimuta Falls starts right from the parking lot after you cross the river on a bridge. The trail is quite easy and takes you through beautiful plants and tropical trees, with a stream flowing down alongside it. It’s mostly a gravel path, and you’ll reach the falls with just a 5-minute walk.
Tip: Bring bug repellent because there will be mosquitoes around the waterfalls.
Hike to Haamaremare Rahi & Haamaremare Iti Falls
On your way to Vahimuta Falls, you’ll see a sign for Haamaremare Rahi & Haamaremare Iti waterfalls. The path takes you into the mountains and forest.
The trail is well established and not too challenging, so anyone with a good physique can handle it. You’ll walk through the rainforest with its lush vegetation, and it should take about 15 minutes to reach the viewpoint.
From the observation deck, you’ll see two falls flowing down the cliff, creating a stunning view against the lush mountain backdrop.
These waterfalls are not only great for sightseeing but also great for anyone looking for short and easy hikes in Tahiti.
Best time to visit Faarumai waterfalls
Faarumai waterfalls flow year-round and are open 24/7. Sometimes, authorities might close the path due to construction, but most days it’s accessible.
If you want to see the waterfalls at their best, visit during the wet season from November to April. That’s when Tahiti gets the most rain, and you’ll see the waterfalls in their full swing.
The best time to see them is after the rain when they are more powerful and the scenes are awe-inspiring.
Faarumai Waterfalls tours
East coast tour
If you want to check out all the top sites on the east coast of Tahiti along with Faarumai Waterfalls, this tour by Unique Tahiti Tours is for you.
It’s a half day tour that runs in small groups, so you get a personalized experience. You’ll visit places like Papeete Market(Tahiti’s biggest local market), Pointe Venus, Arahoho Blowhole, Belvedere du Tahara’a, and even the Polynesian presidential building. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the local culture and history along the way.
Food isn’t included in the tour, so you’ll need to buy your own. Pickup service is offered if you need it.
5 Hours Tahiti Island Tour – West and East Coast
This budget-friendly tour lets you explore both the east and west sides of Tahiti. While it doesn’t cover every spot, it gives you a great overview of the island.
The tour includes Three Waterfalls Tahiti (Faarumai Waterfalls), Arahurahu Marae, The Water Gardens of Vaipahi, Maraa Grotto and some other highlights of the island. Along with sightseeing, you’ll learn about Tahitian culture and the history related to the landmarks from your guide.
Answers to the questions you might have
Are the tickets required?
No tickets are required, you’re free to visit the Faarumai Waterfalls. Just make your way here and start enjoying yourself.
Are there restrooms at Faarumai waterfalls?
No, there are no amenities like restrooms, etc. at the waterfalls.
Is swimming allowed?
No, swimming is not allowed in the pool at Faarumai Waterfalls because of the risk of falling rocks.
Which is the highest waterfall in Tahiti?
Cascade de Fautaua also known as Fachoda Falls is the highest waterfall in Tahiti with a height of 980 feet.
How many days do you need in Tahiti?
I’d say 3 days are more than enough for this island if you don’t want to get bored.
