Private Island Tour (5 HOURS) — West & East Tahiti Highlights

Private Island Tour (5 HOURS) — West & East Tahiti Highlights

Private 5-hour, door-to-door island tour around Tahiti Nui visiting 6 highlights: Marae Arahurahu, the Grottos of Maraa, Vaipahi garden, Faarumai Waterfalls, a coastal blowhole, and Point Venus with its historic lighthouse. Tour in an air-conditioned vehicle with live commentary; restroom available at every stop. Private group up to 6 people. Not wheelchair accessible.

In Collaboration with Tahiti Eden Tours. Updated on February 16, 2026.

Disclaimer

This itinerary was created in collaboration with Tahiti Eden Tours, inspired by the tour Private Island Tour ( 5 HOURS). Please check the tour information during your booking process.

Highlights

  • Historic marae (Marae Arahurahu)
  • Maraa grottos and coastal geology
  • Vaipahi water garden (botanical garden)
  • Faarumai waterfalls
  • Arahoho / coastal blowhole viewpoint (coastal geology and photo stop )
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Itinerary

Day 1

Pickup and tour briefing

Guest pickup / briefing (start)

08:00 – 08:15 • 15m

Pickup at your selected Papeete meeting point or cruise pier and short safety/itinerary briefing before departure.

185 Avenue Du Chef Vairaatoa, Papeete 98713, French Polynesia

Tips from local experts:

  • Have photo ID and booking confirmation ready for driver at pickup.
  • If staying in Papeete request exact pickup location when you book (hotel, cruise pier, or airport).
  • Keep one small day bag with sun protection, water, and camera; larger luggage should remain at your accommodation or in the vehicle trunk.

Marae Arahurahu (historic marae)

08:15 – 08:40 • 25m

Visit the restored marae — an important Polynesian archaeological site — with time for photos and a short guided explanation of its cultural significance.

8C3C+6C5, Pā'ea, French Polynesia
4.5 (246 reviews)
Opening hours
  • Monday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tips from local experts:

  • Wear modest clothing for this sacred site (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Follow your guide’s directions and avoid stepping on carved stones or altars.
  • Short walk from parking; bring a light jacket if it’s breezy.

Grottos of Maraa (cave & coastal rock formations)

08:40 – 09:05 • 25m

Explore the accessible grottos and coastal formations; guide explains local geology and traditional uses.

Unnamed Road, 7C4M+29V, Pā'ea, French Polynesia
4.5 (515 reviews)
Opening hours
  • MondayOpen 24 hours
  • TuesdayOpen 24 hours
  • WednesdayOpen 24 hours
  • ThursdayOpen 24 hours
  • FridayOpen 24 hours
  • SaturdayOpen 24 hours
  • SundayOpen 24 hours

Tips from local experts:

  • Wear sturdy shoes — the grotto floor can be uneven and damp.
  • Bring a small flashlight or use your phone; some grotto sections are dim.
  • Avoid touching stalactites or delicate rock formations to help preserve them.

Vaipahi garden (water garden / botanical area)

09:05 – 09:35 • 30m

Walk through the water garden and botanical displays; short stroll among ponds, tropical plants and quiet paths.

6JQ5+QR4, Teva I Uta, French Polynesia
4.6 (854 reviews)
Opening hours
  • Monday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Tuesday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Thursday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Friday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Tips from local experts:

  • Paths may be damp after rain; wear closed shoes or sandals with grip.
  • This stop is suitable for photography—bring a wide-angle lens for garden vistas.
  • Restrooms are typically available at the garden entrance; use them before continuing.

Faarumai Waterfalls

09:35 – 10:10 • 35m

Short walk to viewpoint(s) for the multi-tiered Faarumai waterfalls. Time to enjoy the falls, photos, and cool coastal air.

FJ82+668, Hitiaʻa O Te Ra, French Polynesia
4.7 (726 reviews)
Opening hours
  • Monday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Tuesday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Wednesday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Thursday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Friday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Saturday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • SundayOpen 24 hours

Tips from local experts:

  • Bring insect repellent — shaded areas near streams can have mosquitoes.
  • Sturdy shoes recommended; some short uneven steps to reach the best viewpoints.
  • If you plan to wade, check with the guide first — currents and slippery rocks can be hazardous.

Coastal blowhole (Arahoho / local blowhole viewpoint)

10:10 – 10:35 • 25m

Quick stop at a coastal blowhole for photo opportunities and an explanation of the coastal features that create the blowhole effect.

Faaurumai, FJG5+6RR, Hitiaa O Te Ra, French Polynesia
4.4 (622 reviews)

Tips from local experts:

  • Stand behind safety barriers and keep a safe distance — waves can be unpredictable.
  • Wind can be strong at the coast; secure hats and loose items.
  • Best photos occur when waves are stronger — your guide will advise on timing.

Point Venus & Lighthouse — special moment (black sand beach and monuments)

10:35 – 12:05 • 1h 30m

Visit Point Venus to see the historic lighthouse and monuments to Captain Cook and Captain Bligh. Time included to relax briefly on the black-sand beach and enjoy a scenic photo moment — a recommended 'special moment' for couples.

Pointe Vénus, Māhina, French Polynesia
4.8 (123 reviews)

Tips from local experts:

  • There is limited shade on the beach — bring sun protection and water.
  • The lighthouse grounds are open for walking and photos; follow signposted paths.
  • If you want a quiet photo, head to the beach edge away from the main parking area shortly after arrival.

Return to Papeete / drop-off (end)

12:05 – 12:55 • 50m

Drive back to your original pickup location or preferred drop-off point in Papeete. Tour concludes on return.

Tips from local experts:

  • Expect light traffic returning to Papeete; guide will confirm drop-off timing.
  • Have your belongings gathered before disembarking; check under seats and in the trunk.
  • If you need a specific drop-off address in Papeete, confirm with the guide at pickup.

Itinerary Attributes

Days1
Highlights5
Season-
Month-
PersonaCouples
Transfers2
Restaurants-
Total Activities6
Total Places7
Activities TypesTransfer, Culture, Outdoor, Attraction
Book the tour in advance!

Private Island Tour ( 5 HOURS)