Walking in Papeete: Your Questions Answered
Questions visitors ask most about walking in Papeete, answered in order.
Is the city itself walkable?
Yes. The centre is flat, and the sights sit close together near the waterfront. A loop could take in Place Vai’ete, Parc Bougainville, the Mairie de Papeete on Rue Paul Gauguin, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the central market. Go in the morning, drink plenty of water and wear a hat. At the cathedral, speak quietly and dress modestly, especially during Mass.
Where can I stroll by the water?
Paofai Gardens, a wooded park of about 5 hectares, borders the waterfront west of the centre. Late afternoon is pleasant, with the lagoon on one side and Moorea in view across the channel.
Do I need a permit to hike the Fautaua Valley?
Yes. The Mairie de Papeete sells access authorisations at 600 XPF per adult and 150 XPF per child over 12, and children under 12 are free. The permit counter (Regie) is open Monday to Thursday 08:00 to 14:00 and Friday 08:00 to 13:00. Note that these hours are shorter than the general town-hall counters. A permit lasts 3 months, the valley is open 06:00 to 17:00 with last entry at 16:45, and everyone must be out by 17:45. For groups above 10 people, ask the city for approval first through the department of employment, youth and sports (+689 40 41 57 91).
What is the trail like?
Tahiti Tourisme says the first 3 km to the Fachoda bridge is an easy, shaded path. Beyond it the trail steepens, and a trail guide lists about 9.8 km and roughly 4 hours for the full return to the waterfall, with fords. Height figures for the waterfall vary, with 135 m one commonly quoted. A guide is recommended because the route is not always clearly marked.
What are the rules?
Swimming in the river is prohibited, and so are camping and hunting. Keep dogs on a lead, take all rubbish out with you, and park only in the marked area. The city advises against entering if rain or bad weather is likely, because of falling rocks and rising water. Valley access has been closed and reopened before, so confirm with the city at papeete.pf .
Are there short nature walks?
The Faarumai waterfalls have a few minutes’ walk to Vaimahuta. The two higher falls need another 20 to 30 minutes and are sometimes closed for works, so telephone the Service du Tourisme (+689 40 47 62 00) first.
Where can I join a guided walk?
Walking and hiking guides are listed at Papeete walking tours , and most trips to Fautaua are better with a guide.
Read more: sightseeing in Papeete and Papeete activities .