In a few words
« The island’s only caving hike, and the most popular for its originality. »
Pictures
Map
Datas
Level: Difficult
Location: Pk 39.9, at HITIA'A + 4x4 track up to 600 m altitude
Meeting point: 7.10 a.m. - Parking de l'Uranie, Papeete
Activity time (walking + breaks): morning 2h30 - afternoon 2h30
Transport time (from Papeete): 1h drive + 35 min 4x4 track
Points of interest: 200 m, 240 m and 1 km caves, water games, jumps (optional)
Description
Without doubt Tahiti’s most famous and original outing, with long passages through the island’s volcanic entrails. The ascent is by 4×4 on a private car track. A short 20-minute approach hike on the carriage track warms you up, with a view of the ocean and the waterfalls on the mountain. We then arrive at the 1st lavatube, which we’ll enter at the entrance and set off with a bit of help and a handrail. The route then continues in the river, with a 1st bathing stop at a basin. Before entering the second lavatube, there are three ropes to pass, one of which requires the use of a harness with top belay (5m). After more river progress, we reach the entrance to the third lavatube. Lunch break. It’s time to enter the 3rd lavatube, where we’ll stay for 1 hour in total darkness. An optional, non-compulsory jump is offered, as well as fun and games. After exiting the 3rd lavatube, we climb back up the river to reach a pillone and enjoy one last time the spectacular view of the summit. Then it’s back down over a final waterfall, before rejoining the driveway and the car left at the parking lot at the start of the hike.
You don’t need to be afraid of heights, claustrophobic or afraid of climbing with ropes.
CANYONING is also possible, via :