The Marquesas - The South Sea paradise of Paul Gauguin

The best travel season is from April to October when daytime temperatures reach about 29°C and pleasant evenings from 22°C to 23°C. Between November and March, the weather is quite humid, and temperatures can reach 32°C during the day and cool down to about 22°C at night. Between January and March, there’s also the risk of cyclones on the islands.

Upon your arrival in Tahiti, our partner agency representative will pick you up and take you to your hotel. Use the day to recover from your journey and get used to the local climate. The perfect remedy is a dip in the largest infinity pool on the island! It offers magnificent views of the lagoon and the nearby island of Moorea. End your first day with a cold drink amidst the tropical tranquility.

Travel time from Papeete Airport - Hotel Tahiti: approx. 15 minutes / 8 km

One night with breakfast in Tahiti, French Polynesia

Today you will explore Tahiti’s west and east coasts on an island tour. The island overflows with cultural and natural treasures, offering a variety of attractions worth visiting. Start the adventure on the west coast, where you will experience the famous Marae Arahurahu. Important ceremonies used to take place in this religious site dedicated to the ancient Polynesian gods. The tour continues to Vaipahi Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in the native flora and the thundering sounds of a waterfall.

On the east coast, you will experience the water potency that travels from Faarumai Falls to the Arahoho Blowhole. At Point Venus, James Cook observed our neighboring planet's transit during his first voyage to the South Seas almost 250 years ago. Here you will also find the most impressive black sand beach of Tahiti. Do not forget your camera!

One night with breakfast in Tahiti, French Polynesia

Kaoha nui! The Marquesas Islands is a three-hour flight from the Society Islands. The distinctive Marquesas boast cliffs, sharp mountains, deep valleys, and canyons. Original Tiki figures and the mysterious me’ae, ancient Marquesan sites arranged for cult ceremonies, are fascinating attractions for cultural experiences. You can explore the hiking trails’ waterfalls and gorgeous steep slopes either on foot or by jeep.

Beautiful beaches abound. No wonder Paul Gauguin found his paradise here, far away from the vanities of Parisian life. Speaking of artists, the islands are home to the most creative French Polynesian inhabitants. You can see the famous local carvings made out of sandalwood and miro wood in many of the island galleries. Tattoo enthusiasts also call the island home. You can learn all about the art of traditional Polynesian tattoos on the Marquesas.

Immerse yourself in Nuku Hiva's current culture. You will travel by car to the village of Taiohae and the Koueva site, where you will go on a light hike. Afterward, you will explore the Notre Dame Cathedral, a precious symbol of Polynesian carving art. The cathedral’s interior decoration boasts art made from stone and wood, each dedicated to a different Marquesas island. You will then proceed to explore the site of Tohua Temehea. History says that this site was the government seat of Vaekehu, the last queen or tribal leader of the Taiohae.

Flight time Tahiti Airport - Nuku Hiva Airport: approx. 3 hours 20 minutes

One night with half board in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, French Polynesia

Time to hop into the jeep: Today, you will get to know the island’s interior. Drive over Mount Muake to the Hatiheu Valley in the north, where fantastic views of Taiohae bay will take your breath away. Afterward, you will continue through the Taipivai Valley, characterized by its seemingly endless coconut palms. Meet an artisan who will take you to the archaeological sites of Paeke and Kamuihei. For lunch, drive towards Hatiheu Valley for either a picnic, barbecue, or a local restaurant.

On the way back to the hotel, you will see the Hikokua archaeological site. Your guide’s mystical stories will transport you back in time, revealing secrets about this holy destination.

One night with half board in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, French Polynesia

Today we invite you to explore Hakatea Bay, located on the south coast of Nuku Hiva. You will walk to Hakaui village and learn about the locals’ daily lives, traditions, and customs. Afterward, you can relax on the snow-white beach and enjoy a swim in the crystal clear water.

One night with half board in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, French Polynesia

Today you will pack your bags and fly to Hiva Oa.

Today’s explorations include a visit to the Atuona village. Discover the Museum Espace Culturel, which exhibits replicas of Paul Gauguin’s work, as well as La Maison du Joui, the house modeled after the painter’s home. In the Museum Espace Jacques Brel, you can admire Jojo's plane, which belonged to the famous Belgian singer. Several photographs also show excerpts from the artist’s life.

Flight time from Nuku Hiva Airport - Hiva Oa Airport: approx. 45 minutes

One night with half board in Hiva Oa, Marquesas, French Polynesia

Today a jeep will drive you beside the picturesque coastal road to the small town of Puamau. You will visit Te Lipona, an archaeological site that houses the tallest stone Tiki in French Polynesia and other extraordinary sculptures in the northeast of the island. Afterward, you will enjoy lunch (included) in a local restaurant and end the day in peace at your hotel.

One night with half board in Hiva Oa, Marquesas, French Polynesia

We hope you have charged your camera because today, you will go on a two-hour hike to the Hanaiapa Bay and Hanaketuua. Coconut trees and white sand beaches await you. Enjoy a light picnic and go for a dip in the crystal clear water.

One night with half board in Hiva Oa, Marquesas, French Polynesia

When you depart from Hiva Oa by boat, you can easily reach Tahuata Island. Ranging from fertile valleys to crystal clear bays, an oasis of peace awaits you. Most of the inhabitants make their living from their exquisite artwork, like carvings of bone and rosewood. You will visit the handicraft center and the beautiful beach, and later on, you will enjoy a delicious barbecue. Keep your eyes peeled for wild horses in their natural habitat!

One night with half board in Hiva Oa, Marquesas, French Polynesia

After breakfast at your hotel, you will fly from Hiva Oa back to Tahiti. Depending on the departure time, you will be taken to downtown Papeete by our partner agency representative. Here you will have the opportunity to explore more of the capital’s sites before your flight back home.

We are happy to organize an extension for your stay in French Polynesia. Just let us know what you want, and we will take care of your customized trip.

itravel - for that moment.

Manava Suite Resort***, Tahiti, French Polynesia

This west coast resort is famous because it’s home to the largest infinity pool in Tahiti! Each of the 120 rooms and suites boasts Polynesian style and offers amenities such as a private bathroom, minibar, safe, and iron/ironing board. Enjoy delicious local and international cuisine in two bars and a restaurant. Other hotel facilities include a boutique, a gym, and a spa area.

Keikahanui Lodge***, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas, French Polynesia

Built with local materials and perfectly integrated into its surroundings, this lodge in the Nuku Hiva mountains welcomes you with views of the bay and Taiohae village. Decorative wood carvings characterize a unique ambience. The bungalows have a private terrace and come equipped with air conditioning, TV, safe, hairdryer, and minibar. Savor delicious delicacies at the in-house restaurant’s tropical plant atmosphere and relax by the inviting outdoor pool.

Hotel Hanakee Lodge***, Hiva Oa, Marquesas, French Polynesia

This accommodation offers a magnificent panoramic view of the island's lush nature. On clear days, you can see Mount Temetiu! The 14 rooms feature Polynesian accents by talented local artists and include amenities such as air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safe, a minibar, and a telephone. You can also eat at the hotel’s restaurant or unwind on the outdoor terrace or by the infinity pool.

• Find more information here about the current COVID-19 hygiene protocols
• Only guests who are fully vaccinated at least 14 days before departure are allowed into the country.

Duration of the trip: 10 days / 9 nights

Including

• Nine nights in the mentioned accommodations or similar:
  • Two nights at the Manava Suite Resort*** with breakfast in a Garden Suite in Tahiti
  • Three nights at Keikahanui Lodge*** with half board in a Bay View Bungalow in Nuku Hiva, Marquesas
  • Four nights at Hanakee Lodge*** with half board in an Ocean View Bungalow in Hiva Oa, Marquesas
• Meals according to the program
• Meet&Greet at the airport with a flower/shell necklace
• All transfers in Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa
• Domestic flights (Airpass)
• The price is valid during the travel periods 01.04.21 - 31.03.22

Excluding

• International flights
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the scope of services
• Optional excursions (visits, admissions, etc.)
• Personal expenses, such as minibar and tips
• Travel insurance
• PCR test, if still required
• Visa, entry, and/or exit fees, if required
• City Tax (approx. 100 CFP) per person/night for people over 12 years of age. You will pay for the tax at the end of your stay at the respective hotel.

Notes

• Flight time from Frankfurt am Main: approx. 30 hours
• Experience shows that the airfare is about 2,000 EUR per person and during the high season (May to September) about 2,500 EUR per person
• Please note that you can only combine the excursion program in the Marquesas with the accommodations offered.