On the Northeast coast, the cross island road starts at PK 18, a little after Papenoo's townhall. For nearly 15km, it follows Tahiti's largest river, offering outstanding scenery through each adjacent valleys. The trail is in good condition and makes it possible to easily reach the "Relais de la Maroto", located on a peak at the heart of the main volcano. In the area, marae and archeological sites surrounded by waterfalls await interested visitors. After a welcome break, the trail then climbs in meanders to the tunnel at the foot of Mount Orohena (over 2,200 meters). The access is rather delicate, with impressive gorges here and there, but it remains easy for anyone knowing all the subtleties of off-road driving. Dangerous spots have been covered with concrete and reinforced by the military, which performed impressive work under often delicate conditions. At the top, the tunnel goes under the crest. On the other side a totally different scenery spread itself before the amazed eyes of the intrepid visitors. The trail goes back down to the Mataiea plains with first a "stopover" on the shores of Lake Vaihiria. The place generates a particular atmosphere. All the way down, many stops are possible for camping or picnic (Please respect the place, don't litter and don't pick up anything!). A few delicate spots remain to go through, then the trail flirts with the Mataiea River before reaching the island's west coast, a few kilometers from the Papara Golf Course. Altogether you would have driven nearly 40 kilometers at the heart of the immense caldeira in the center of Tahiti. And nobody comes out of there the same, the scenery is breathtaking.

 

Before leaving for this short expedition, it is advised to get information from the Papenoo Townhall or with Relais de la Maroto to find out driving conditions. (weather forecast and road condition).