A treasure waiting to be discovered

French Polynesia’s reputation boasts white sandy beaches, translucent lagoons, Polynesian hospitality and the fragrance of tropical flowers under the sun. A less known, but equally ravishing aspect of the islands, lies inland: the mountains. Those who make the effort to go on a hike are rewarded with stunning surroundings and panoramic views.

Tahiti and the other high-lying mountains in the Society archipelago, and the Marquesas and Austral archipelagoes present the opportunity to discover and explore wild valleys, seemingly endless waterfalls and mape forests (Tahitian Chestnut trees that were used for communication in ancient times by hitting the tree trunk with rocks making thudding sounds that carried through the valleys). Whether you prefer a mellow walk for an hour or a more demanding hike for two nights with a sleepover in a shelter, the professional guides on each island will show you the islands from a new angle and will teach you about the mountains’ legends and plants on your way.

One of the most popular hikes, and also the most strenuous one, is the climb up the Aorai. Mount Aorai is Tahiti’s third tallest mountain with its 2066 meters/6778 feet. The 10 km/6.3 miles hike takes two days along a well-maintained trail. If you manage to overcome your vertigo as you pass by the impressive 300 meter/ 984 feet high cliffs of Mato Mati—or “Devil’s Rock”— you will have earned the right to wake up the next morning to a magnificent scene: a 360 degree panoramic view of the mountains, the lagoon, the Presqu’ile, several waterfalls and the island of Moorea.
Talk about seeing the turquoise waters of the lagoon from a different perspective!