Marquesas Islands Tahiti And French Polynesia Travel Guide
This remote archipelago, situated over 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) to the northeast of Tahiti, beckons those who seek adventure, cultural immersion, and a chance to witness a way of life deeply rooted in tradition.
The islands, specifically Hiva Oa, have a special place in the art world as the final home of painter Paul Gauguin and singer Jacques Brel. Their presence lend an unique layer to the islands' mystique.
The Marquesas islands Islands promise an unparalleled adventure for the discerning traveler, one filled with discovery, natural wonder, and profound cultural connection. A journey here remains long after you return home.
The Northern group includes The Largest of the marquesas islands, Ua Pou, Ua Huka, and Eiao (unpopulated). Nuku Hiva is the largest island in the archipelago, characterized by deep, winding valleys, high plateaus, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Taiohae Bay serves as the administrative hub. Ua Pou is recognized by its striking basaltic pillars. Ua Huka, drier than its neighbors, is known for its wild horses and extensive arboretum.
The Southern Marquesas include Hiva Oa, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata, and Mohotani (unpopulated). Hiva Oa is the second largest island, prominent for cultural sites and historical connections. Fatu Hiva, the most isolated, maintains a very traditional way of life and possesses landscapes of extraordinary, raw beauty, including the Bay of Virgins. Tahuata, the smallest inhabited island, offers peaceful bays and a rich history of carving.
Jagged mountains rise dramatically from the ocean, creating deep, verdant valleys.
Unlike other Polynesian islands, the Marquesas islands lack protective reefs, leading to rugged coastlines and open ocean views.
Volcanic origins lead to beautiful black sand beaches.
Ua Pou features unique towering basalt formations.
Ua Huka is known for its wild horses and diverse plant collections.
Volcanic origins mean fertile, red-brown soils in valleys, supporting lush vegetation despite a drier climate. Rainfall varies by island and elevation; windward slopes are more verdant.
Reaching the Marquesas means a flight from Tahiti, typically to Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa. The Aranui 5 cargo-passenger ship has a full way to explore multiple islands. Travel around usually means 4x4 vehicles and local boat transfers.
Life here moves at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Embrace "Polynesian time." This a destination for slow travel, allowing one to absorb the atmosphere plus get in touch with the place and its people.
The deep bays and natural harbors sheltered ancient voyagers and continue to draw sailors today, despite the islands' lack of protective lagoons. This distinct geological makeup makes the Marquesas different within The Islands of tahiti.
The islands were first settled by Polynesian navigators around 300-600 AD, arriving in large double-hulled canoes from what is believed to be Samoa or Tonga, and subsequently further eastward from other Polynesian islands, making them one of the earliest settled island groups in Polynesia. These early settlers brought staple crops like breadfruit and taro, along with pigs, chickens, and dogs.
Prior to European contact, the Marquesan population was substantial, estimated between 50,000 to 80,000 or even higher. Their culture flourished, marked by impressive stone architecture, including large ceremonial platforms (tohual) and sacred sites (marae), adorned with striking tiki statues that represented ancestors or deities.
Marquesan tattooing was perhaps the most elaborate in all of Polynesia, covering the entire body, each design carried profound spiritual and social meaning.
Impressive stone architecture, including large ceremonial platforms (tohual) and sacred sites (marae), adorned with striking tiki statues.
Warfare between valleys and islands was common, building a warrior culture that produced fierce and skilled individuals.
European contact began in 1595 with the arrival of Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira. Subsequent visits by Captain James Cook and other Europeans brought devastating consequences.
Approx. 25,000 - 35,000 XPF / US$210 - US$300 per day. Simple guesthouses, local meals, shared transport. Focus on free activities.
Approx. 35,000 - 60,000 XPF / US$300 - US$500 per day. Comfortable guesthouses, some local dining. Guided tours, limited rentals.
Approx. 60,000+ XPF / US$500+ per day. Premium guesthouses, private tours. Very limited true luxury options exist.
Simple Pension: 10,000 - 20,000 XPF (US$85 - US$170). Mid-range: 20,000 - 35,000 XPF (US$170 - US$300).
Local snack/sandwich: 500 - 1,000 XPF (US$4 - US$8). Simple restaurant meal: 1,500 - 3,000 XPF (US$13 - US$25).
Inter-island flight (Tahiti-Nuku Hiva return): 40,000 - 60,000 XPF (US$335 - US$500+). Full-day 4x4 guided island tour: 10,000 - 20,000 XPF (US$85 - US$170) per person (can decrease for groups).
