Hitchhikers @ Fataua

The Natural Ponds

After another hour of climbing, you’ll reach the ponds. Beware, getting there won’t be easy as the last part is very abrupt and you’ll need to use the rope that’s always there. Don’t worry I’ve tested it myself, it’s very solid despite the years it’s been in service (I believe it’s been changed regularly).

So, grab the rope tight and take your time going down the path of roots. Then you’ll be able to relax for good and enjoy the view of an ever-glowing rainbow (if there’s some sun).

The site is great [1] if you have the chance to have some sun when you reach it. The mountain’s streams gather here and have carved 3 ponds in the rocks linked by 2 small waterfalls. These can actually be used for sliding between the ponds if you aren’t afraid of getting your bottom a little hurt.

First Pond

Rainbow

Slide !!

I said Slide !!

Don’t go further ! Waterfall ahead !

Other streams have chosen another path but still jump into the 2nd pond, creating a rainbow when mister sun dares to shine.

All this water ends up in the third pond which is a little bit quieter than the previous one. And after everything is said and done, all the gathered waters jump out of the mountain thus creating the largest waterfall you’ve seen last page (or 1h ago).

Of course, it’s fun to dive and swim in these waters, but only if you’re not afraid of its coldness. One of the girls didn’t want to refresh herself in this natural jacuzzi but she still could take some pictures from higher ground.

The water sure is fresh, but it only takes a few minutes to get accustomed and it’s good for your blood circulation to get frisky once in a while.
Enjoy your stay, grab some food if you have packed some, and feel the beauty of the place.

Fun in the sun

Swimming like Phelps

Sweet towel <3

Once you’re done, please be sure to leave the place as clean as you’ve found it. It’s a privilege you’ve earned through all these hours of sweating so just imagine other people getting there only to find your can of beer laying around...

In 10 years, the site has been remarkably well preserved compared to others on the island. Please help us keep it clean !

Ecology isn’t just a concept and it’s really easy to apply it here. Keep WALL-E (waterfall-y), be eco-friendly !

Going Back

Anyway, there’s no way around to get back down : you’ll need to go back in your steps, which first means, you’ll have to climb using the rope. Rest assured here, it’s much easier (and funnier) on the way back.

On your way back, just be careful where you put your feet as the pressure can be hard on your knees. No need to rush here. If we’ve taken 2h30 to reach the waterfall, we’ll probably just need 1h to 1h30 to go down.

Anyway, there’s still room for refreshment when you reach the sight seeing site :

Then you can go keep going down and enjoy all the nature that surrounds you.

Once you get back to the bridge, you still have to walk for about 30 minutes to reach the entrance. This is a good time to change shoes if you have spare ones and switch shirts so you won’t catch a cold because of all the sweat. It’s also the moment when you can have the last sip of your water.

Pack up and leave whenever you’re ready. On your way back, take this time to have a last bite of the verdant touch that has hit the place. This could be your last time in a long while in this green paradise...