Lava Tubes of Hitiaa

Lava Tubes of Hitiaa

Exploring the Hitiaa lava tubes (Les Lavatubes de Hitiaa) is one of the most memorable activities of a Tahiti vacation. Visitors should, however, only enter the tunnel system with the assistance of an experienced guide.

A hiking trail begins on the east coast, just behind the Faatautia River, and leads steeply into the mountain to the Hitiaa tubes in about 2-3 hours. The path of lava from the inland to the ocean formed raw-like cavities. As a result, an underground tunnel system with four main tubes has developed, with small grottoes and waterfalls formed by seepage water in some places.

If you want to explore all four tubes, plan on spending about 3 hours. Vacationers should bring a sense of adventure for the tunnel action, as it goes partly over ropes along steep rocks, stands in cold natural pools, and wades through underground rivers.

The simple tube ascent is also appropriate for families. Instead of the hour-long hike to the first cave’s entrance, it is recommended here to book a tour that begins directly from the entrance. (SUVs then come to a halt directly in front of the first tube.) Little spelunkers can explore all kinds of natural treasures directly in the underground passages without having to make the difficult climb first.

Take a headlamp or flashlight with you to better illuminate the tube’s branching corners and edges.