Matairea Hill Archaeological Trail
Marae Mata'ire'a Rahi
A forest trail on the hill behind Maeva village, linking several hillside marae and ancient settlements, with views over Lake Fauna Nui.
Head uphill from the junction near Fare Pote'e in Maeva village. The forest trail has numbered markers along the way, passing terraces, residential sites and the most important stop, the great marae Mata'ire'a Rahi, which was once the highest-ranked altar on the island. The round trip takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. The grade is gentle, but the trail is full of roots and stones and gets slippery after rain. From the hillside you can see the lake and the atoll lagoon. The trail is free. Bring insect repellent and drinking water, or ask a local guide to explain the site.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Ancient Fish Traps of Maeva
- Maeva Marae Complex
- Marae Manunu
- Huahine Pearl Farm
- Sacred Blue-eyed Eels of Faie
- Belvedere Lookout
- Fare
- Maroe Bay Bridge