Mont Aorai, Mountain summit in Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Mont Aorai is a volcanic peak reaching 2066 meters with steep slopes and dense vegetation covering its flanks. The thick plant growth reflects the heavy rainfall that shapes the mountain environment.
This peak was shaped by the volcanic activity that created Tahiti island. The French military later established a training facility that now serves as the main trailhead for hikers.
The name comes from the indigenous language and means the place where spirits dwell. Local people have long viewed this peak as a sacred space and it remains woven into their traditional beliefs.
Two mountain huts at 1400 and 1800 meters provide basic shelter with water and lighting for climbers. The trail is best done in dry weather, as rain makes paths slippery and difficult to navigate safely.
The peak receives far more rain than the nearby city of Papeete, creating its own climate at higher elevations. This heavy rainfall makes the climb demanding but produces the lush vegetation that defines the mountain.
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