Tubuai Islands: Nature, Culture and Hotels

On Tubuai, one of the Tubuai Islands, hiking trails, dive sites and cultural sites come together as specific travel interests. The island offers nature and water activities as well as connections to crafts and culture.

Hiking on Mount Taitaa

Tubuai has numerous hiking trails, including paths on Mount Taitaa. The ascent to the summit of the 422-meter-high mountain offers a 360° panorama. If you like having a specific summit in mind when hiking, you can make Mount Taitaa your focus; the other trails also offer a variety of hiking opportunities.

The hike on Mount Taitaa is part of Raid Litchis, an annual race held in November. This is a seasonal point of interest for travelers who would like to combine a hike on the mountain with the race. If you plan your trip around Raid Litchis, check the specific event dates in advance.

Water, diving and seasonal excursions

Tubuai has more than twelve dive sites, six of which are suitable for beginners. This number provides a specific point of reference for beginners; conditions may vary at individual dive sites. Take the intended site into account when choosing.

A picnic excursion to Motu Toena combines fishing and snorkeling. This excursion offers a different focus from hikes on Mount Taitaa and dives. Check local availability before making the excursion a fixed part of your itinerary.

July to November is the seasonal period for whale-watching excursions; check current availability before planning. Swimming is a possible activity at Tavana Beach. Check current swimming conditions and access before taking a dip.

Cultural sites and crafts

Cultural sites on Tubuai include marae and the Saint-Hélène Hermitage. The reconstruction of Fort George is open to visitors and recalls the failed settlement attempt by the Bounty mutineers in 1789. A craft center on Tubuai showcases work by local artisans, including Tifaifai quilts, woven hats and baskets. If you would like to visit the center, check current opening hours and access arrangements in advance.

Season and getting around the Mataura district

Lychees are harvested on Tubuai every year in December. This timing differs from Raid Litchis in November: one point of reference is an annual race, while the other is the harvest.

The Mataura district can be explored on foot or by bicycle. It is home to the island’s only bank with an ATM, the town hall and the gendarmerie. Along with hiking and excursion destinations, this gives the district a practical role in getting around Tubuai. If you plan to visit one of these facilities for a specific purpose, check the latest information about the facility beforehand.

Discover more destinations: Tamatoa, Huahine, Mata'ura.

Return to the main travel overview: Austral Islands.