Fa'aone: Waterfalls, Pools and Hiking Trails

Fa'aone brings together waterfalls, pools and hikes with a distinctive cultural history. At Cascade de Vaihi, two waterfalls, rock steps and several pools shape the landscape; hiking trails lead through a valley up to a plateau overlooking the lagoon. The striking architecture of Église Saint-Pierre de Faaone and the historic tradition of net fishing add to the picture. When planning your trip to Tahiti, you can get to know Fa'aone through nature, scenery and culture alike.

Waterfalls and Trails Around Vaihi

At Cascade de Vaihi, two waterfalls lie about five metres apart and plunge roughly ten metres into a large pool. These approximate measurements give an idea of the landscape: two separate falls flow into the same large pool. Steps cut into the rock to the side lead to the top of the waterfall, where two small pools are located. A hiking trail leads from Cascade de Vaihi through the valley up to a plateau with views of the lagoon.

The hike from Vaihi to Fa'aone on Tahiti's east coast leads to seven waterfalls and several pools. It is moderately difficult and takes about four hours; the elevation gain is approximately 200 metres. Above the waterfalls, the hike initially follows the river upstream, while the return route crosses a ridge. Along the way, there are sweeping views of Tahiti Iti and its natural landscape. The approximate duration and difficulty may vary depending on conditions. Check current conditions before setting out if you are planning a hike.

A Landscape with a History

Cascade de Vaihi is 40 metres from the coastal road. Its history of landscaping is also part of the site's story: for a time, the tourism office landscaped the cascade with colourful auti, various hibiscus varieties, bird-of-paradise flowers, large philodendron vines, as well as fruit trees and ornamental plants. This temporary landscaping adds another facet to the site's history alongside its natural waterfall setting.

Historically, the people of Fa'aone were known for their skill at throwing nets and fishing with them. This theme offers a cultural perspective on the area alongside its hiking trails. Église Saint-Pierre de Faaone adds to this perspective through its architecture: inside, it features a curved ceiling of varnished panelling and a series of pointed-arch windows.

Hikes on Tahiti Iti

The Vaiiha Valley region on Tahiti Iti also offers a distinctive way to explore the peninsula. Guided hikes there provide an opportunity to discover the nature and cultural history of Tahiti Iti. Alongside Fa'aone's waterfalls and pools, the peninsula's landscapes and history are further themes to explore on a trip.

Fa'aone for Your Trip Planning

When choosing your destination and accommodation, consider which of these aspects you would like to shape your stay: the roughly four-hour hike to the waterfalls, the view of the lagoon from the plateau, or a cultural perspective on Fa'aone and Tahiti Iti. The hike's approximate duration can help you factor this focus into your plans. That way, you can search for a place to stay based on the experiences that matter to you on your trip to Tahiti.

Discover more destinations: Arue, Haapiti, Maharepa, Papeete, Paea, Punaauia, Pihaena, Taravao.

For the main travel overview: Windward Islands.