Overview
Tahiti's East coast is known for it's rich history and dramatic volcanic coastal scenery!
Very different from Tahiti's west coast, this fascinating tour of the northeast coast, with its dramatic volcanic scenery, takes you to the most historically rich corner of the island.
Begin the day with a drive past the President's Palace, a large, impressive structure.
Next, discover the Bay of Matavai, where Captain Wallis landed when discovering the island. This bay might look familiar if you've seen the 1962 version of Mutiny on the Bounty with Marlon Brando (who went on to call the private island of Tetiaroa in French Polynesia his home). Along the beach, walk in the footsteps of Captains Cook, Bougainville and Bligh and learn about the first Protestant missionaries on the island. See the lighthouse and monuments to the HMS Bounty and hear about Captain Cook's mission from the Royal Society of London to observe the transiting of Venus (the passing of the shadow of the planet across the sun). Discover how the first European's presence in Polynesia was felt by the natives of the day as well as its repercussions since.
The peaceful Chinese Cemetery with its unique white buildings is the perfect location for your guide to inform about the Chinese community here and their contributions to Tahitian life and culture.
In a hidden valley, stop at an ancient Leper Colony (don't worry, it's safe now) where you'll have the chance to meet some of the local residents and feed the sacred blue-eyed river eels (they're friendly, we promise) as your guide relates the lore associated with them.
If you're lucky enough to be visiting on a weekday, you'll see local sculptors creating wooden Tiki statues in their workshop. Stop at a silk-screening factory to watch the printing and creation of beach wraps, famous flowery dresses, and Polynesian shirts. These wonderful opportunities provide (on weekdays) a chance to interact with the local population and bring home with a unique hand-crafted traditional souvenir.
For breathtaking views of Tahiti's largest city, Papeete, and the island of Moorea, Tahara viewpoint is the place to be. But the highlight of the tour will is yet to come with a stop at the spectacular waterfall of Vaimahuta in the Tiare Valley. You'll visit the famous ‘blowhole’ on the coast with stunning views down the East Coast of the island.
Along the way, you'll sample some of Tahiti's freshest local produce.
- Minimum 2 required. Maximum 8 per departure.
- The Silk screening factory is only open on weekdays.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:30 AM, duration: 4 hours
