Private : Tahiti Museum & Circle Island Tour, Afternoon Tour (5h)
4.2 / 5 · 6 traveler reviews
Discover the wonders of Tahiti on a complete circle island tour. Start on the west coast with a visit to the Museum of Tahiti & Her Islands, the country's first institution to showcase the treasures of Polynesia's natural and cultural heritage. Next, head for the archeological site of the Arahurahu marae, an ancestral Mao'hi cultural center restored in 1953, before stopping off at the Vaipahi water garden for a refreshing stroll among pools, waterfalls, flowers and tropical plants. After crossing the isthmus of the Tahiti Iti peninsula, the landscape of the east coast becomes wilder - it's still a bit of the Tahiti of yesteryear. A few kilometers further on, make a playful stop at Trou du Souffleur, a marine geyser known in ancient times as Anahoho "the howling cave", before heading into the forest to the 3 Te Fa'aurumai waterfalls natural site. End your tour of the island with a visit to Pointe Vénus, where the Endeavour docked in 1769.
Your experience
Stop 1
Recently renovated, the Museum reopened its doors in March 2023. Its role is to collect, conserve & restore collections linked to Polynesian heritage. It has acquired a role of expertise in the preservation of cultural property.
Stop 2
The site of Mara'a consists of three natural caves carved into the rock. Water flows continuously, forming pools of fresh, crystal-clear water. Lush vegetation (ferns, mosses) hangs from the ceiling of each cave. The largest of the three is called Te-ana-pape-o-Vai-poiri, and it is remarkable for its optical illusion: its arched ceiling gives the impression of lowering towards the end, making the cave appear much smaller than it actually is. The other two caves are named Mata-va'a and Vai-patoto. These are lower in height. Although the site is difficult to spot from the road due to the abundant vegetation, the cave has long served as a landmark for fishermen at sea to orient themselves towards one of the nearby passes.
Stop 3
The fame of this spot comes from its waves, which break in both directions thanks to a peak centered at the mouth of the break, ending over a bottom of pebbles and black sand. Surfers can perform elegant, radical, or even aerial maneuvers, riding either to the left or to the right.
Stop 4
Located in the district of Mataiea, the Vaipahi Gardens displays a wonderful selection of endemic plants set in a very exotic decor. A lovely waterfall adds up to the charm of the place. A charming little boutique displays handycrafts items to be purchased for souvenirs. Fresh local season fruits also available. Toilets available at this stop.
Stop 5
The peninsula is a dream destination for all lovers of nature, authenticity, and of course, surfing! Also known as Tahiti Iti, or the Tahiti Peninsula, it is of volcanic origin, mountainous, and wild. Discover this part of the island of Tahiti, rich with countless natural treasures, during your stay in French Polynesia.
Stop 6
The 3 waterfalls in the Faarumai valley come from three different watersheds. The first and most accessible waterfall (a few minutes' walk) is VAIMAHUTA (80 m waterfall). The other two (a 20-30 minute walk) are HAAMAREMARE RAHI (100 m) and ITI (40 m).
Stop 7
Located in the north on the edge of Matavai Bay, it was the special scene of successive landings of European navigators. James Cook named it after the planet in commemoration of the transit of Venus that was observed during one of his scientific voyage to Tahiti. It is also one of the most beautiful black sand beaches in Tahiti. Toilets available at this stop.
What’s included
- Private transportation
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Local Guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Not included
- Food and Drinks
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A MINIMUM OF 1 PERSON IS REQUIRED TO OPERATE THIS TOUR
- CHILD AGES IS FROM A MINIMUM OF 3 YEARS OLD
- Not recommended for person suffering from excess weight
- Not recommended for person suffering from vertigo
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
Check dates and book on Viator →Confirm the meeting point, inclusions, cancellation policy and final price on Viator. We may earn a commission from your booking.