The Hitiaa lava tubes

Park near the Route Ceinture l’Est, in front of a small power station. If you have a 4x4, you can park at the top to avoid the climb up to the circular loop after the dam at (3).

(S/E) Follow the track leading to the dam until you reach a junction.

(1) Continue straight on. You’ll reach the small dam of the first Faatautia hydroelectric power station.

(2) Stay on the access track to reach the second dam with its hydroelectric power station.

(3) Carry on in the same direction.

(4) Enter the first lava tube, exit it, then follow the river. There are technically challenging sections where you’ll need to use a rope to make your way through, which requires a certain level of fitness.

(5) Enter the second lava tube, come out again and walk for about 400 metres.

(6) When you reach the third tube, you’ll need to wade through the water to get in, so be prepared to get wet. You actually have to go almost right under the waterfall, but it’s quite easy when the flow isn’t too strong. Then retrace your steps.

(6) Resume the route. Further on, turn left at a 90° angle, then follow the path back from the lava tubes. You’ll reach a junction.

(7) Carry on to the left to reach the second dam you passed on the way out.

(3) Turn right and follow the same route in the opposite direction to return to the car park (S/E).

Expect to get wet!

As for the duration of the walk, I walked up on foot, which takes a fair bit of time, and I took plenty of breaks – for a picnic, a swim, etc. If you drive up in a 4x4 to (3), the circular route can be completed in 2 to 3 hours.

Make sure you take a head torch and a spare torch, as the final lava tube is long.

Obviously, don’t go in wet weather, and it’s of course best to go in pairs.

Beautiful caves.