Marae Taputapuatea private tour in Raiatea

On the day of the expedition, your guide will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the starting point of the excursion. You’ll leave Uturoa and the residential areas, and head for the botanical gardens. Bikes will be adapted to your size and safety equipment will be provided. Instructions will also be given on how to use the electric assistance.

Your Marae private tour on an electric bike in Raiatea begins with a visit to the Faaroa garden, close to the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Here you’ll be able to admire many of the island’s endemic plant species: flowers, plants and fruit trees. A first section will take you to the Gabbros, surprising genological formations.

Continuing on your way, you’ll reach the summit of Belvedere, from where you’ll enjoy an exceptional panorama of the mountains and Faaroa Bay. From here, follow the Macarangas ridge path on foot for around 1500 m, crossing the rim of an ancient volcano, enveloped in dense greenery.

After passing the Belvedere, you follow the gently sloping road to the ocean shore, joining the coast for a distance of 8 km. The panoramas of the south stretch out before you, both on the sea and on land. As you follow the turquoise-blue lagoon for 17 km, you’ll have the opportunity to make several stops, whether to admire the panoramas or discover hidden treasures along the way, including a pearl farm. Your guide, always at your side, will enthusiastically share the history and cultural richness of the places you pass through.

After a distance of almost 25 km, the highlight of your electric bike ride in Raiatea is revealed: the Marae of Taputapuatea. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this thousand-year-old historic site transports you deep into ancient history. You’ll be introduced to local myths and Polynesian religious ceremonies.

It’s also the perfect place for a light lunch. Enjoy a ham and veggie sandwich (with optional modification) topped with exquisite Viennese bread from Uturoa’s renowned Bon Apetahi patisserie, accompanied by sweet treats and fresh fruit. A variety of beverages, including coffee, water and fruit juices, will complete the meal, giving you the energy you need to continue your adventure.

The journey continues serenely over the 16 kilometers to go, offering a delightful mix of sea and mountain panoramas. Thanks to your guide’s expertise, you’ll have the opportunity to enrich your knowledge of Raiatea and its residents.