Polynesia

Along Tahitian island trails through tropical forests, green slopes and mystical places

In addition to white sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons in these unspoilt paradises there are important archaeological and geological sites to venture to

by Laura Dominici

29 September 2025

5' min read

Key points

The life-moving energy of Polynesians
Moorea: the coconut palm route
Huahine: between forests and ocean views

5' min read

They are known worldwide for their white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and landscapes ranging from coral atolls to volcanic peaks. In fact, the islands of Tahiti, located in the South Pacific, are among the ideal destinations for active holidaymakers. It would be worth swapping your swimming costume for a day or two for a pair of shorts and hiking shoes and venture into an area rich in beauty, to be discovered step by step, along paths bearing names that guard legends, ancestral memories and show a strong spiritual connection with nature. In the coming months, events are planned that gather an international audience, such as the Tahiti Yoga Festival in October, the Polynesian outrigger canoe race (29 October-1 November) and the traditional dance competition with 700 dancers from all over the world (21-23 November).

The life-moving energy of Polynesians

In these places, there is a spiritual connection with nature that lives in the concept of Mana, a vital energy that permeates the daily life of Polynesians. The spirit of Mana is everywhere, say the inhabitants, it flows through the land, the sea, the culture and the people and reconnects the individual with the essential. Many trails lead to the 'high' volcanic islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Taha'a and Raiatea. There are also beautiful trails in the more remote Marquesas Islands and the Austral Islands. Each island encompasses unique landscapes where the prize for explorers is breathtaking views impossible to grasp from the island's shores.

Tahiti: the 'Lavatubes' underground tunnels

Among Tahiti's most impressive trails are the Lavatubes, underground tunnels carved by flowing lava thousands of years ago. It is precisely from this origin that their name derives: long natural corridors, shaped by fire and time, which today can be explored accompanied by expert guides. Along the way, one ventures into a surprising landscape of volcanic rocks, caves, some of which are embellished with stalactites and stalagmites, and natural pools. An experience that combines adventure and geology, giving the sensation of walking in the very heart of the island. The experience can be modulated according to the level of physical fitness, with shorter or more challenging itineraries according to preference, always respecting strict safety measures. Also in Tahiti is the 'Jardins d'eau de Vaipahi' trail. Created in 2007 in Mataiea on the island of Tahiti, the Vaipahi water gardens offer the possibility of a two-stage visit. In the lower part, one can observe numerous botanical species and aquatic plants while discovering the vestiges of the past and the legend of the place. In the upper part, on the other hand, there are three hiking trails with a walking time of up to three hours.

Moorea: the coconut palm route

In Moorea, the Three Coconut Tree Pass is one of the most iconic trekking trails on the island. The name comes from the three coconut palms that once marked the pass and still evoke the charm of this lush valley. The trail, which takes between three and four hours, winds its way through tropical forests and green slopes until it reaches a spectacular viewpoint, from where the twin bays of Cook and Opunohu can be seen - a view that alone repays every step. Along the trail, one can admire numerous species of tropical plants and animals: from birds and colourful butterflies to lush vegetation that includes hibiscus and ferns, powerful symbols of Polynesian biodiversity.

Bora Bora: in the green heart of the island

Bora Bora's Cross-Island Trail is an easy route through the green heart of the island, away from the best-known beaches. This trail leads through lush forests, steep slopes and ancient Marae (sacred places used in Polynesian societies since pre-Christian times for sacred and social events) to spectacular views of the turquoise lagoon and Mount Otemanu, the volcanic outcrop that dominates the island. A trek that reveals the most authentic and wild side of the 'pearl of the Pacific'.

Raiatea: at the geological site of the gabbri

The 'Promenade des Gabbros' is a geological and scenic site on Raiatea, where gabbros can be observed. You get there at the end of a flight of steps and a short path of about 150 metres. This is where these fascinating geological curiosities are revealed: dark rocks eroded by time into the shape of natural ridges that seem to have been worked by the expert hands of a sculptor and that formed the chimney of the volcano from which the island itself was born. Two viewing platforms offer a privileged view of the caldera, providing a natural spectacle of rare beauty in an accessible walk that takes about 30 minutes.

Huahine: between forests and ocean views

In Huahine, the Matairea Trail leads in about one and a half hours to one of the island's most important archaeological sites. Walking through lush forests and overlooking the ocean, the trail reveals ancient marae and evidence of Polynesian life centuries ago. The trek combines nature and history, giving the feeling of travelling not only through the beauty of the island, but also through time.

faaone, vaiha, pont faaona

Seven days in seven islands

Tahiti is the main island, the arrival point for every visitor, the largest island where the capital Papeete is located and most of the Polynesian population is concentrated. Don't miss its market with its colours and scents, perhaps letting yourself be attracted by its most precious product, the famous Tahitian pearls, or stocking up on monoi, the moisturising coconut oil for skin and hair found everywhere here. Also worth mentioning is the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles and why not venture out on a 4x4, horseback, quad bike or hiking trip to get to know the hinterland. In Moorea, on the other hand, in addition to the lagoon and the hinterland, you can opt for special experiences, such as a visit with tasting to the pineapple plantations, a local cooking class, or a visit to the 'Magic Mountain'. On Bora Bora, you are spoilt for choice between relaxing on Matira beach, scuba diving or snorkelling among manta rays and a myriad of tropical fish, a picnic on a deserted motu, or a sunset cruise on a catamaran. There is also room for the more adventurous spirits with a paddleboard or kayaking session, a seaplane or helicopter flight, or a round of parasailing. Raiatea, on the other hand, is the Sacred Island, a true reference point for the entire Polynesian triangle. Here, a visit to the village of Uturoa is advisable, followed by an immersion in the most ancestral Polynesian sacredness and culture with a visit to the Marae Taputapuatea, a Unesco site. The excursion along the Faaroa River, the only navigable river in French Polynesia, by kayak, canoe or paddleboard is also interesting, as is the boat trip to its sister island, Taha'a. Huahine, finally, is known as 'the island of women' and is renowned for its quiet life, authenticity and fascinating history. Here, too, the lagoon and hinterland are worth discovering through excursions and day trips. Among the activities, it is possible to visit a pearl farm to learn more about the pearl oyster cultivation process and to buy oysters locally. A variety of accommodation options are available to stay on the islands: luxury hotels with overwater, villas, small family houses, holiday homes, as well as yachts, catamarans and cruise ships.