Vaipo Waterfall, Natural waterfall in Hakaui Valley, Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia.

Vaipo Waterfall drops in a single horsetail plunge of about 350 m from a basalt ledge at the head of Hakaui Valley on Nuku-Hiva. The water leaves a gouged channel as one narrow jet, and much of it turns to mist before reaching the canyon floor, coating the walls with a glossy sheen. Dense green vegetation frames the fall on both sides of the dark rock.

Hakaui Valley once housed a large population whose stone structures remain visible today, and the landscape shaped the daily life of those communities. The waterfall has always been part of this valley's character.

The waterfall's other names, Ahuii and Ahuei, are the ones used locally in the Marquesas, while Vaipo appears on maps and in French sources. The fall drops from the basalt plateau of Tōviʻi, and the stream feeding it carries roughly one cubic metre of water per second.

The waterfall sits at the head of Hakaui Valley, reached on foot along a valley trail that crosses the stream several times; sturdy footwear and a few hours are needed for the round trip. Swimming at the base is not permitted because of the fall's height and the force of the water, so visitors view it from the designated viewpoints. The dry season, from May to October, is the safer window, as heavy rain brings flash-flood and landslide risk.

The mist created by the falling water coats the surrounding rock walls with moisture, giving them a glossy appearance that shifts with the light. This natural coating makes the entire canyon feel damp and alive.