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In a period marked by significant developments in high-density acquisition systems, this case study investigates the feasibility of using lightweight equipment for ‘frugal seismic surface-wave dispersion analysis’. The goal is to provide simple approaches and tools for practitioners to assess mechanical contrasts in embankments and natural terrains located in remote, rugged environments. Conducted in Tahiti’s ‘Pamataï Hills’, the study utilized only 24 wireless geophones to gather seismic data at locations with varying altitudes and geotechnical conditions. To compensate for the limited number of sensors, a high number of shots and a stacking method were employed to obtain dispersion curves, revealing lateral variations in material properties across the embankments and between different site locations. The results align with geotechnical findings, showing significant contrasts in mechanical properties and emphasizing the challenges of achieving uniform compaction in such areas.