Tahiti and Moorea are two easy to get to islands in French Polynesia where you’ll find many waterfalls. While Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, is more commercial, the island’s interior is full of amazing natural beauty. With lush landscapes, jagged mountains, scenic valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls, Tahiti often surprises visitors who underestimate its charm.
In this article, we’re going to talk about the waterfalls in Tahiti. There are so many here, Tahiti has one of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in French Polynesia.
Whether you’re looking for waterfalls with swimming spots, plunge pools, waterfalls without hiking or with scenic hikes, Tahiti has it all. Each waterfall has its own unique charm, and some even have fascinating local legends associated with them.
So, without wasting time, let’s dive right into exploring the beautiful Tahiti Waterfalls.
Best Waterfalls in Tahiti
1. Fautaua Waterfall
Fautaua Waterfall also known as Cascade de Fachoda is considered the highest waterfall in Tahiti with a height of 443 feet (135 meters). It’s tucked away in the Fautaua Valley, in the northern part of Tahiti.
Before you head out, be sure to get a permit from the city hall which will cost about $5.
The waterfall looks like a river falling down the cliff. It plunges vertically into the pool below, creating a mist from the force of the drop that refreshes the visitors. The views are truly breathtaking, whether you’re looking from above or from the base of the falls.
The waterfall is kind of enclosed by steep mountains and you feel like you’re in a nature sanctuary, surrounded by rugged beauty. The valley itself is beautiful, you get to see lush scenery around along with the waterfall.
To get to the fall, you’ll need to drive to fall’s trailhead which is about 3.5 miles from Papeete. From there, it’s about 3 hours long hike. The hike to Fautaua Waterfall is challenging but manageable, so anyone with some hiking experience should be able to handle it.
There are two trails: the upper trail takes you to the top of the falls, while the lower trail takes you to the base. You’ll also come across loti basin and a grotto with an infinite pool if you take the upper trail. You can jump in the pool, but just be careful.
If you’re up for a great hike that’s not too far from Papeete and offers stunning waterfall views, Fautaua Waterfall is the spot to check out.
For those who are interested in doing this with a guide, this private Fautaua Valley tour is a great option.
2. Faarumai Waterfalls
If you want to see multiple waterfalls in Tahiti in under an hour, head to the Faarumai Waterfalls. This site features three falls: Vaimahuta Falls at 262 feet, Haamaremare Rahi at 328 feet, and Haamaremare Iti at 101 feet.
The waterfalls are situated in Faarumai Valley in the village of Tiarei, on the eastern side of Tahiti. They don’t require much hiking in order to get to them, tracks are easy and can be walked by anyone who’s in decent shape.
Vaimahuta Fall is a 5 minute walk from the parking lot. It’s quite a secluded place surrounded by lush mountains with the waterfall plunging into the pool. Sadly, swimming is not allowed due to the risk of rockfalls from cliff. The views are breathtaking, and it gets even more spectacular when the waterfall is flowing at its peak.
The other two waterfalls are a 15 minute hike through the rainforest. Since you cannot get close to them, there’s a viewing platform where you can see both falls cascading side by side.
Overall, it’s a great spot for anyone on a Tahiti Island tour, especially if you’re driving through the east side.
3. Vaihi Waterfalls
Vaihi Waterfalls are twin waterfalls located southeast of Tahiti Nui in Faaone village. They’re just a short distance from the main road, about a 5 minute walk away.
Waterfalls aren’t too high; they are less than 20 meters tall and cascade down into the pool below. The pool isn’t deep enough for swimming but you can take a shower under the falls and refresh yourselves with its cold water. There’s also a small park nearby where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the nice waterfalls view while listening to the soothing sound of the rushing water.
Waterfalls are also considered sacred among Tahitians and every first Saturday of the month, there’s a spiritual washing happens there.
Besides Vaihi Waterfalls, there are more in the area as well. To see them, you’ll have to take the trail from Vaihi Waterfalls that follows a stream through the tropical forest. It’s a fairly moderate hike and would take you about 2 hours to reach the top where incredible views of eastern Tahiti await you. Along the way, you’ll encounter many basins and waterfalls with plunge pools.
4. Vaipahi Fall
Vaipahi Fall is a small waterfall in Water Gardens Vaipahi, located southwest of Tahiti in Mataiea village. It cascades down from a height of around 30 meters into the pool below.
All of the water comes from Vaihiria Lake which is fed by rainwater. The cascade is the only other water source, besides rainfall, that nourishes the garden.
The waterfall is in a beautiful serene setting surrounded by lush vegetation. Besides the waterfall, you’ll see a variety of flora throughout the garden. Plus, there are ponds with beautiful water lilies.
The Vaihiria lake and waterfall in the garden were part of an ancient legend and are considered sacred.
Moreover, there are trails leading from the garden up into the forest and mountains. You’ll find other small waterfalls on the river trail that have pools to dip in. So, if you’re looking for more adventure and want to explore more of Tahiti’s landscapes, be sure to take one of the trails.
Since this place is right off the main road, it’s easy to reach. It takes about 50 minutes to get here from Papeete.
5. Faraura Valley waterfalls
Faraura Valley has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Tahiti. While there are many here in the valley, three of them are the most popular and frequently visited. These waterfalls are similar to multi-step waterfalls as they drop one after the other but they aren’t located close to each other.
The first waterfall is called the Tapa Tea waterfall. It’s a chute where hundreds of gallons of water pouring into a small canyon. Thrill seekers can jump in from the cliff in front.
Next are the “twin waterfalls” which cascade vertically from 60 meters height down into the big pool. The runoff creeks through the rocks and its stream drops again, creating another waterfall just a few meters from the twin falls.
The scenes are breathtaking whether you look down at the second fall or the twin falls, it’s a sight to mesmerize.
The last waterfall at the end is nestled in lush vertical mountains. You can see the waterfall from afar and it looks magnificent. It’s a narrow waterfall with a height of 180 meters falling down into the gorge below. You can get up close and feel its refreshing spray.
The water flows downstream, eventually feeding into the Twin Falls.
Besides the big waterfalls, you’ll also come across streams cascading over rocks, kind of like little tiered waterfalls, with having small pools to soak in.
While the waterfalls of Faraura Valley are definitely worth visiting, getting to them can be challenging. The trail is not well marked, it’s rough and rocky, with some steep sections and river crossings. And in case of rain, water level rises up, so I’d not recommend coming here in downpour.
Moreover, you’ll need to be in good physique to visit the falls and it’s even better to have a guide along for a safer experience. If you’re not up for the entire hike, it’s fine to stop at the twin falls, which is what most people do.
6. Onohea Waterfalls
Onohea waterfalls are two tiered waterfalls located in Tiarei village in Onohea Valley, northeast of Tahiti. The main waterfall is known as the “twin falls” drops about 100 meters into a plunge pool. As the runoff erodes the rocks and makes its way downstream, it forms a smaller cascade that flows into a pool below.
There are other waterfalls in the valley as well that you can see along with the twin falls. As these falls drop from the valley’s sheer cliffs, they present breathtaking views to their visitors.
To get to the Onohea Falls, you’ll need to make your way to Tiarei village in PK 25 Onohea. Turn onto the small road that branches off from the main road and heads inland. There’s also a bus stop on the main road if you’re planning to take the bus.
The trail to the falls is quite challenging and demands some good hiking skills. It’s a 2-3 mile route that’s poorly marked, so it’s a good idea to bring a GPS or have a guide with you. You’ll be mostly walking on a rough and rocky path with lots of foliage. You’ll also need to cross the river multiple times.
On the way to the falls, you’ll stumble upon a beautiful water lily lake called Nénuphars Lake.
In rainy conditions, the trail becomes slippery and the water level rises. Therefore, it’s best to avoid taking the trail during heavy rain.
7. Maroto Waterfall
Maroto Waterfall also known as La Maroto a Tahiti in the local language is a small waterfall that flows down from a height of about 20-30 meters. It’s tucked away in the center of Tahiti in the Hitiaa O Te Ra district.
The waterfall has a pool with stunning blue water. You can wade in directly or dive in from the grotto behind the falls for a refreshing swim. This spot is surrounded by lush vegetation and mountains, offering a peaceful retreat with the sound of rushing water breaking the silence.
Reaching the waterfall is quite a journey. From Hitiaa O Te Ra district, which is about 30 kilometers from Papeete, you’ll need to travel along a dirt road for about 10 miles to reach the trailhead.
On your way to the fall’s trailhead, you’ll come across a remote hotel where you can grab a bite to eat or book a room for an overnight stay.
Although the trail to fall is not marked, it’s easy to follow and not that difficult. If you go further upstream, there’s another waterfall with a basin.
If you have got a 4×4 or an ATV, you can get to the waterfall on your own, but you’ll probably need help from locals for directions. I’d suggest visiting with a guide or on a tour for the best experience.
By visiting this place, you’ll not enjoy the waterfall, but also explore the lush landscape of Tahiti with jagged mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll also spot numerous waterfalls dropping down the mountains.
Tahiti Waterfalls Tours
If you don’t want to visit the waterfalls alone, you can hire a private tour or join a group tour to explore the various waterfalls of Tahiti.
Crossing Island of Tahiti 4×4 Mountain, Waterfall, River, Basins
If you’re looking for a tour that takes you to the heart of Tahiti and lets you explore its stunning waterfalls, this is the one. While the tour isn’t focused solely on waterfalls, you’ll get to see them along with other beautiful sights around the island.
On this 6 to 7 hour long tour, you’ll ride a 4×4 into Tahiti inland for an off-road adventure. This will be a long and bumpy ride, but you’ll get to experience Tahiti’s lush greenery and hidden gems. Along with way, you’ll see several waterfalls and have a chance to bathe.
This tour is also great for families, allowing you to explore the island with your children over 3 years old.
Crossing Over Tahiti Island Safari 4×4
Discover Tahiti’s waterfalls along with the island’s natural side that you wouldn’t have seen otherwise with this full day tour.
On this tour, Your guide will take you to the east side of Tahiti and into inland on a 4×4. This trip focuses on exploring the natural side of Tahiti, avoiding popular tourist spots. You’ll see lush scenery with flowers, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. There will be a lunch break, but you’ll need to pay for it yourself, so carry cash with you.
You’ll also get to learn about Tahiti’s culture and history from your guides.
This tour isn’t recommended for those who can’t handle long, bumpy rides. Other than that, anyone interested in going off the beaten path in Tahiti, this tour is for you.
5 Hours Tahiti Island Tour – West and East Coast
This 5 hour long tour is an amazing choice for those who are on a budget and want to see the waterfalls of island. You’ll see many amazing spots of the island, including the Faarumai Waterfalls and the waterfall at Water Gardens Vaipahi.
You’ll get an overview of the island by going east and west coasts without breaking the bank.
Things to Know
Waterfalls in Tahiti are best seen after rain
You can see the waterfalls in Tahiti at any time, but they’re most spectacular right after rain. The rainwater raises the water level in rivers and streams, causing the waterfalls to flow more powerfully.
Season-wise, the wet season from November to April is the best time to see the waterfalls in their full glory. That’s when it rains the most in Tahiti, which fills the lakes and increases the flow of streams that channel down the mountains in full.
Pack bug repellent and sunscreen
When you’re going to see a waterfall on Tahiti Island, make sure you’re bringing a bug repellent with you. Because mosquitos are common around Tahiti’s falls and they can be a nuisance.
Since the sun in Tahiti can get fierce, sunscreen will help protect your skin against the tropical sun.
Bring swimwear for waterfall swimming
Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and towel if you are visiting the waterfalls with swimming in mind. Although not all the waterfalls offer swimming opportunities, many have pools or nearby rivers where you can take a dip.
Avoid drinking waterfall water
Try to avoid drinking waterfall water unless you have to. It’s better to bring your own water, especially on waterfalls that involve a lot of walking.
Wear proper footwear for waterfall hikes
Although not all the falls on the island are difficult to get to, but you should wear proper footwear that is comfortable and has a good grip. Because tracks to reach waterfalls are uneven & unpaved and can get slippery in case of rain, so it’s recommended to wear good shoes instead of flip-flops for safer trekking.
Avoid visiting in heavy rain
Try to avoid visiting waterfalls with difficult trails during the rain especially in heavy rain, as it can be dangerous and you could risk injury. However, light rain is usually fine.
Consider a guide for a safer experience
Although it’s fine to visit the falls on your own, if you’re planning on visiting the falls that are inland in the valleys and mountains with difficult trails, I’d recommend going with a group or guide to have a more fun and safer experience.
Some quick answers
Does Tahiti have waterfalls?
Yes, Tahiti has many waterfalls, some of which are easily accessible, while others are more hidden and secluded.
Can you swim in a waterfall in Tahiti?
Yes, you can swim in most waterfalls as it’s generally allowed. However, at certain spots like the Faarumai Waterfalls, swimming is prohibited.
Is it safe to visit waterfalls?
Yes, it’s generally safe to visit waterfalls on Tahiti Island. However, it’s not recommended to visit waterfalls with challenging trails during bad weather.
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.
