Mount Aorai
Mount Aorai - a knife-ridge climb to Tahiti’s third-highest peak, over the island, lagoon and Moorea
The route
The line through Tahiti, French Polynesia - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Papeete trailheadTrailhead
Start of route [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 2Intermediate camp/villageCamp
Staging point (approx) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
- 3High point / turnaroundSummit
Turnaround (out-and-back) [interpolated - upgrade in research]
Approximate node - GPS and name to be upgraded in deeper research.
Season & conditions
May-Oct (drier)
Tropical cloud/rain; the ridge is exposed and slick when wet
Best May-Oct (drier); the ridge is dangerous in cloud/rain - very exposed. Confirm.
On the trail
A narrow, steep ridge climb with fixed ropes/cables in places to Tahiti’s accessible high summit
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Day-hike to the first refuge/viewpoint; overnight for the summit dawn
Getting there & staying
Le Belvédère, above Papeete
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Two simple refuges on the ridge (basic, bring gear)
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Papeete; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; two basic refuges (Fare Mato and Fare Ata) en route
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Exposed ridge with big drops, slippery when wet, cloud navigation
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.