The island of Raiatea, to the south of Bora Bora, is the most sacred island in the Polynesian Triangle. Visit a site that has been classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, navigate on Faaroa River, and pass an emotional moment admiring an endemic flower which is the island’s emblem, the tiare apetahi. The “Sacred Island” of French Polynesia, offers a mix of cultural, natural, and adventurous experiences. This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Raiatea and make the most of your visit to this stunning island.
Top things to do in Raiatea
01
Visit main town Uturoa
Uturoa is the bustling heart of Raiatea Island. Go shopping at the local Market & boutiques, browse through fresh produce, unique souvenirs and handmade items like local crafts & traditional Polynesian goods. Then enjoy the scenic views of nearby islands and the lagoon of Raiatea from the quay of uturoa.
02
Go Scuba diving
Raiatea is a diver’s paradise with incredible underwater activities. Get to famous diving spots like The Nordby Shipwreck & dive into history by exploring this well-preserved wreck in the lagoon Raiatea. You can also go to Te Ava Piti Pass and discover vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life in one of the best scuba diving spots.
03
Hike mount Temehani
Embark on a hike to Mount Temehani, known as the home of the rare Tiare Apetahi flower. The tiare apetahi is the emblematic flower of Raiatea and is endemic, growing nowhere else in the world except on the top of Mount Temehani. You can also hike Gabbro’s Balade: a moderate trail through lush vegetation, the three waterfalls: a scenic route leading to stunning cascades or le sentier de la crête des Macarangas: a ridge trail with breathtaking views.
04
Have a dip at the three waterfalls
Cool off at this natural wonder, where crystal-clear waters cascade into inviting pools. It’s a perfect spot for a refreshing dip and one of the must-do activities Raiatea offers.
05
Explore the Faaroa river
Take a guided tour on the only navigable river in French Polynesia. On a paddleboard or a canoe, drift along the serene waters surrounded by lush greenery. Learn about the river’s history and significance from local experts. The Faaroa River navigable journey is a unique experience in French Polynesia Raiatea.
06
Experience a day on a Motu
Book a lagoon excursion to visit a motu (small islet) like the Motu Ceran, Ofetaro or Atger. Enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional Polynesian hospitality for an unforgettable full day tour. Tours often include : The guide, lunch, transport & snorkeling gear.
07
Book an Island tour
Discover Raiatea’s must-see sites and learn about its rich history and legends. A guided island tour offers a comprehensive experience, revealing the cultural and natural treasures of Raiatea French Polynesia. The perfect way to get to see a bit of everything : The coast, a Pearl farm, the unesco designated marae Taputapuatea, a vanilla plantation and much more depending on the guide/tour you choose.
08
Plan a Trip to Taha’a
Just a short boat ride away, Taha’a is Raiatea’s sister island and a must-visit. Tour vanilla plantations and learn about the vanilla-making process of the awarded best vanilla in the world. Then snorkel in the vibrant underwater world of the Taha’a lagoon. Finally enjoy the tranquil beaches and laid-back atmosphere.
A historical and cultural site in Raiatea
Raiatea is an island with a uniquely rich culture and environment, where you can travel back in time to the very beginnings of the maohi civilization, 1,000 years ago. The Marae of Taputapuatea is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most sacred site in the Polynesian Triangle. You can take a guided tour of this vast archeological site, where large information panels will help you understand its significance.
After your visit, cross the road to the Te-Ara-Hiti-Ni’a path that leads up the mountain. Regular resting spots give you superb views over the marae and lagoon and from the top you can look out over the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands of Huahine and Taha’a. This tour not only gives you an insight into the cultural importance of Raiatea, it also enbles you to see a large part of the island and appreciate its unspoiled beauty.
« Our islands are magnificent, let’s keep them that way when we visit them »
Did you know?
The tiare apetahi is the emblematic flower of Raiatea and is endemic, growing nowhere else in the world except on the top of Mount Temahini. It is not to be confused with the tiare Tahiti, the fragrant flower that is the emblem of French Polynesia and can be found everywhere in The Islands of Tahiti.
Practical information
What sporting activities are there in Raiatea?
Like everywhere else in The Islands of Tahiti, Raiatea is an island that love sports. Scuba diving, hiking, va’a outrigger canoe, sailing and almost any watersport you can mention.
What if it rains?
You can still go out on the lagoon, but if you don’t want to get wet, have a massage, visit a Tahitian cultured pearl farm or a vanilla plantation, or go shopping for souvenirs in the town of Uturoa.
Be inspired
Experiences
Faaroa river is the only navigable river in French Polynesia. it is a wonderful trip by boat, outrigger canoe or kayak.
OUR SUGGESTED ITINERARY
3 days in Raiatea
A visit to the marae of Taputapuatea is an essential part of any vacation in Raiatea. Take a trip up the Faaroa river and visit the botanical garden. For those in good phiscal condition, go on a guided hike to the top of Mount Temehani, to see one of the world’s most beautiful endangered flowers and a view that you’ll never forget. Rent a boat or go on a lagoon excursion to some of the motu, with a diving session for enthusiasts. Go for a tour of the neighboring island of Taha’a and take home some of the best vanilla in French Polynesia.
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