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Marquesas Islands Travel Checklist

Marquesas Islands Travel Checklist

Marquesas Islands Tahiti And French Polynesia Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Advance planning smooths your journey, covering aspects from initial bookings to last-minute checks.

Your Planning Journey

A structured approach to your Marquesas adventure, ensuring every detail is considered.

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Initial Bookings

Flights & Cruises

Secure international flights to Tahiti (PPT), Aranui 5 cruise (if applicable), and Air Tahiti inter-island flights.

Accommodations

Book inn or hotel reservations on each Marquesan island due to restricted selections.

Documents & Health

Check passport validity, visa requirements, and consult your doctor on vaccinations.

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Mid-Term Details

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, and pre-booked tour details.

Transfers

Arrange airport transfers with guesthouse hosts, sharing arrival flight details.

Financials & Packing

Notify banks of travel plans and begin creating a detailed packing list.

1W

Final Touches

Packing & Documents

Pack bags, assemble all essential documents (copies in separate locations).

Currency & Electronics

Withdraw local currency (XPF) and completey make sure all electronics are charged.

Home Safeguards

Notify contacts for emergencies and make final home security checks.

Advance Booking Importance

Limited availability for flights, cruises, and accommodations means booking well ahead is important.

Required Advance Bookings

  • All Flights: International to Tahiti (PPT) and domestic with Air Tahiti.
  • Aranui 5 Cruise: If selected, book many months ahead.
  • All Accommodations: Guesthouses and hotels on each island.
  • Tours: Pre-arrange significant full-day tours and the airport transfers through your guesthouse.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarizing yourself with the Marquesas deepens your experience.

Research Recommendations

  • Marquesan Culture: Learn history, art (wood carving, tattooing), and customs.
  • Basic French/Marquesan Phrases: Learn greetings; local efforts gain appreciation.
  • Specific Attractions: Research sites, accessibility, and guide needs for each island.
  • This knowledge adds to your appreciation for the living culture.

Home Preparation

Getting your home ready before departure brings peace of mind.

Household Management

  • Pay bills in advance.
  • Turn off non-essential appliances.
  • Check for leaks or water issues.
  • Manage smart home settings.

Security & Mail

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Activate security systems.
  • Arrange mail collection or forwarding.
  • Inform regular delivery services.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care during your absence.
  • Confirm pet sitter or boarding details.
  • Organize care for indoor plants.
  • Ensure garden needs are met.

Preparedness Perks

Advance planning not only makes your... more efficient Marquesas trip but also ensures peace of mind regarding your home while you travel.

Arrival & Departure

The first few hours in the Marquesas are important for setting the tone of your trip, and a smooth departure makes for a decent end.

First Steps Upon Arrival Tahiti PPT

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Have your passport, any visa, and onward trip information ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked baggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Domestic Connection:

    Proceed to the domestic terminal at PPT for connections; allow ample time.

Orientation & Initial Needs

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card (Vini or Vodafone) at the airport for staying connected.

  • Withdraw Currency:

    Use an ATM at PPT to withdraw French Pacific Francs (XPF) for initial days.

  • Guesthouse Meet-and-Greet:

    Your guesthouse host or driver will meet you, serving as a main local resource.

Transportation from Entry Point

Airport Transfers

This is almost always pre-arranged by your guesthouse or tour operator.

Anticipate a 4x4 vehicle due to the rugged roads in the Marquesas.

Port Pickups

If arriving by the Aranui 5 or local ferry, your accommodation will coordinate port pick-up.

Confirm arrival times with your host for seamless connections.

Local Orientation

Upon arrival, your guesthouse host offers the best source of immediate information about the area.

Briefly confirm your initial itinerary, transfers, and planned tours.

Initial Steps in the Marquesas

Navigating your arrival and departure with clear planning leads to a comfortable and worry-free travel experience.

Detailed Pre-Departure Guide

Ensure all loose ends are tied before your Marquesas adventure begins.

Document & Health Readiness

  • Ensure your passport validity extends beyond six months past your return date.
  • Verify visa requirements for French Polynesia well in advance of travel.
  • Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and necessary prescriptions.
  • Obtain a doctor's note for any controlled medications you carry.

Financial & Logistics

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation. World Nomads is a trusted resource.
  • Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if planning to rent a 4x4.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
  • Begin a detailed packing list and gather necessary gear.

Souvenir & Customs

Plan for your purchases and understplus laws.

Important Considerations

  • Large Items:Arrange shipping well in advance.
  • Receipts:Keep for customs declaration.
  • Natural Materials:Be aware of import restrictions.
  • VAT Refund:Not applicable in French Polynesia.

Pre-Departure Timings

  • Domestic Flights (from Marquesas): Arrive at least 1 hour before scheduled departure.
  • International Flights (from Tahiti PPT): Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Reconfirm your return international flights a day or two before departure.
  • Repack luggage, leaving space for souvenirs, and lock all items.

Smooth Sailing Ahead

Careful attention to these specific pre-trip details helps you avoid common travel hitches.

A prepared traveler makes for a truly relaxed Marquesas adventure.