Mont Orohena, Mountain summit in Tahiti, French Polynesia
Mont Orohena is the highest peak in French Polynesia, rising to 2,241 metres above sea level on Tahiti. It is an extinct shield volcano. In views from the island, the summit is the tallest of three peaks, with a lower pointed peak to the left and a broader rounded peak to the right; its lower slopes are often hidden by cloud.
Mont Orohena is the eroded remnant of an extinct shield volcano on Tahiti. The first recorded ascent took place on 28 September 1953, when climbers found a dry-stone wall at the summit. The peak reaches 2,241 metres, the highest point of French Polynesia, and its nearest higher neighbour is Mount Ngauruhoe in New Zealand, 4,128 kilometres to the south-west.
The mountain shapes how locals and visitors perceive Tahiti's landscape, with its twin peaks forming a recognizable landmark visible from many parts of the island. People often point it out as a natural reference point when describing their surroundings.
The summit is reached by a hike of more than six hours from the town of Mahina, passing the plateaus of Moto Fefe, Pihaaiateta and Pito Hiti. No technical climbing is required, but the route is long, so carry food, water and weather-appropriate clothing.
The mountain stands apart for its extreme topographic isolation, placing it among only a few peaks worldwide with this geographical characteristic. This separation from other highland areas makes it geologically notable.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,698 contributors worldwide.