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Fautaua Valley

River in French Polynesia

Introduction

Hiking Routes

  • ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™‚๏ธ Upper Approach: This route is more challenging with steep, muddy trails and exposed roots. It offers the best views and access to natural pools at the top.
  • ๐ŸŒ‰ Green Bridge: The upper approach starts by crossing a green bridge over the river.
  • โฑ๏ธ Duration: The upper approach takes about 4-5 hours round trip.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Lower Approach: Easier but involves multiple river crossings. Suitable for moderate hikers.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ River Crossings: The lower approach requires crossing the river several times, which can be dangerous during the rainy season.
  • ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Trail Markers: Both routes are marked, but the upper approach has more challenging sections with ropes and wires for safety.

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Permit Information

  • ๐Ÿ›‚ Permit Required: A permit is mandatory to hike to Fautaua Waterfall.
  • ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Where to Get: Obtain the permit from Papeete city hall.
  • ๐Ÿ’ต Cost: 600 CFP per person or $5.50 USD.
  • ๐Ÿ•’ Timing: Permits can be obtained on the morning of the hike.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Location: The permit office is on the main floor to the right of the central staircase in the city hall.
  • ๐Ÿ“ Process: Fill out a form, pay the fee, and get the permit on the spot.

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Accessibility

  • ๐Ÿ›ต Moped Ride: The trailhead is a 25-minute moped ride from the center of Papeete.
  • ๐Ÿš— Parking: There is a dirt lot at the end of the paved road where you can park your vehicle.
  • ๐Ÿ›ฃ๏ธ Road Conditions: The road to the trailhead is paved until the last 5.7 miles, which are on a dirt road.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Security: A security guard is present at the trailhead to check permits and ensure safety.
  • ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Directions: Follow Avenue Pierre Loti until you reach a gate. Ring the intercom to gain access.

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Scenic Views

  • ๐Ÿž๏ธ Fautaua Valley: Offers stunning views of the lush valley and surrounding peaks.
  • โ›ฐ๏ธ Diadรจme Peak: A sharp peak visible from various points along the hike.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Jungle Terrain: The trail passes through dense jungle with exposed roots and rocks.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Waterfall Vantage Points: Multiple vantage points along the upper approach offer breathtaking views of the waterfall.
  • ๐Ÿ“ธ Photo Opportunities: Numerous spots for photography, especially at the top of the falls.

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Swimming and Activities

  • ๐ŸŠโ€โ™‚๏ธ Natural Pools: The upper approach leads to natural pools at the top of the waterfall.
  • ๐Ÿ› Water Slides: Smooth rocks create natural water slides in the pools.
  • ๐Ÿคฟ Cliff Jumping: Opportunities for cliff jumping into the pools.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Infinity Pool: The main pool at the top offers an infinity pool experience with views over the edge of the waterfall.
  • ๐Ÿงบ Picnic Spots: Several spots along the trail are suitable for picnics.

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Historical Significance

  • ๐Ÿฐ Fachoda Fort: Ruins of an old fort located near the top of the waterfall.
  • ๐Ÿ“œ Pierre Loti: The pool at the base of the waterfall is named after the French writer Pierre Loti.
  • ๐Ÿ“– Historical Context: Pierre Loti lived in the area and wrote about it in his works.
  • ๐Ÿ—ฟ Statue: A statue of Pierre Loti is located near the trailhead.
  • ๐Ÿž๏ธ Historical Trails: The trails have historical significance and were used for various purposes over the years.

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Flora and Fauna

  • ๐ŸŒฟ Mosses: Various species of mosses, including Fissidens clarkii and Fissidens fautauae, are found in the valley.
  • ๐Ÿฆ— Earwigs: Species like Hamaxas nigrorufus and Chelisoches morio have been documented.
  • ๐ŸŒณ Lush Vegetation: The valley is covered in dense jungle and tropical plants.
  • ๐Ÿฆ‹ Insects: A variety of insects inhabit the area, contributing to its biodiversity.
  • ๐ŸŒบ Flowers: Tropical flowers add to the scenic beauty of the valley.

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<br><br> <div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "TAHITI'S famous Fautaua Waterfall (Cascade de Fachoda)", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MEAcH80RKQ", "channel": { "name": ""}, "published_date": "May 5, 2020", "length": "" }</div>

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