Tao, the final descendant of the sunken empire Hiva (or Mu), lives in isolation on the Galapagos Islands with his parrot Kokapetl. He inhabits a treehouse built by his grandfather and father, later expanding it after their deaths. There, he collects ancient Hiva treasures, studies ancestral scrolls, and masters deciphering old symbols. Inheriting a golden jar and an encyclopedia of Hiva, he burns his home before leaving the islands, severing ties to his solitary past.

Intellectually gifted and mechanically adept, Tao wields advanced scientific knowledge from Hiva’s legacy, inventing solutions for his companions. His intense curiosity compels him to examine unfamiliar mechanisms instantly. Physically, he displays remarkable speed honed by island hunting and resilience against harm, though he battles clumsiness, frequently stumbling. Fiercely proud of his heritage, Tao acts recklessly if his artifacts are endangered. He forges protective bonds with Esteban and Zia, experiencing unreciprocated romantic feelings toward Zia, Morca, and Myeena.

Initially distrusting Europeans due to a prophecy foretelling white men destroying the Cities of Gold, Tao reluctantly allies with Esteban and Zia after unveiling the Solaris, a solar-powered Hiva vessel. He joins their quest to safeguard the cities and uncover Hiva’s legacy. His encyclopedia deciphers ancient technologies like the Golden Condor, while Hiva prophecies—including one about a dark-eyed priest’s daughter guiding him east—direct key choices. The golden jar later proves vital, containing a cooling rod that prevents a reactor meltdown in the first City of Gold.

Throughout subsequent journeys, Tao questions why Hiva ancestors designated Esteban and Zia, not him, as guardians of the medallions accessing the Cities. When Esteban considers abandoning their destiny, Tao persistently urges him onward, even safeguarding Esteban’s tarnished medallion, reflecting his deepening commitment to the quest and friendships.

Tao has dark skin, dark brown eyes, and black hair shaved underneath. He first appears in a red serpent mask, white-feathered bonnet, and brown feather tunic—mistaken for the Inca god Viracocha. Later, he wears a baggy yellow tunic with an orange stripe, black shin wraps, and golden sandals. He carries a pouch holding his golden jar and conceals his Hiva encyclopedia within his tunic.

Originally planned to be named Lao, Tao’s name means "way/road" or "large waves" in Chinese. His island life likely led to a vegetarian or fruitarian diet, contributing to his short stature and limited stamina. He resents being treated as a child or carried due to his height, is ticklish, and avoids baths despite claiming swimming skill in the Japanese version. The Solaris ship holds profound personal value to him, termed "my life" in that adaptation.