Marquesas Islands Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Essentials

Staying in touch sometimes faces limitations in speed and availability.

Tips for Connectivity

Purchase local Vini or Vodafone SIM cards for best mobile coverage.
Post offices are in major villages (Taiohae, Atuona).
Ensure your phone is unlocked for local SIM use.

Navigating Language

French is the official language; Marquesan is the local tongue. English is less widespread.

Essential Phrases

"Kaoha" (Kao-ha) means "Hello / Welcome" in Marquesan.
"Koûtou" (Koo-too) means "Thank you" in Marquesan.
Learning a few basic French phrases is highly beneficial.

Cultural Etiquette

Respectful interaction with local culture is a must.

Guidelines

A friendly greeting like "Kaoha" is always appreciated.
Always get consent before taking pictures of people or private property.
Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is great for villages and churches.

Accessibility Notes

The Marquesas islands' rugged geography and limited infrastructure present challenges for mobility needs.

Limitations

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is very limited; few ramps or elevators.
Many attractions need walking over uneven ground.
No specialized services (braille, audio guides) are widely available.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Dining Customs

Communal meals are frequent at guesthouses.
Wait to be invited to dine during communal settings.
Try local specialties like poisson cru and uru.
Ask hosts about local ingredients and cooking methods.

Tipping & Taboos

Tipping is not customary or expected.
Avoid negative talk about local culture or politics.
Don't drop trash or damage natural environments.
Public displays of affection, especially for LGBTQ+ couples, may draw attention.

Important Note:

For specific mobility needs, contact Tahiti Tourisme for the latest information. Prior communication with guesthouses and tour operators is needed to assess available accommodations.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

The Marquesas islands Islands feature a dramatic, largely untouched natural landscape. Protecting this environment is important.

Environmental Awareness

Many areas are naturally protected. Local communities are increasingly mindful of marine resources and endemic species. Support local conservation efforts.

Waste Management

Limited infrastructure on remote islands. Minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics. Carry reusable water bottles and shopping bags. Pack out non-biodegradable items. Find eco-friendly lodging at Ecobnb.

Water Conservation

Fresh water is a precious resource, especially during drier times. Be mindful of usage, take shorter showers, turn off taps. Support accommodations with water-saving measures.

Carbon Offset Options

International and inter-island flights contribute to your carbon footprint.

Consider offsetting your flight emissions

Research organizations that invest in renewable energy or reforestation.
Look into reputable carbon offset programs.
Consider Terrapass for carbon offsetting.

Eco-Friendly Shopping

Look for brands dedicated to sustainability and responsible practices.

Sustainable Retailers

Explore sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.
Find reusable products from Package Free Shop.
Support conservation through The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Responsible Tourism Practices

Cultural Sensitivity

Support local artisans by buying directly.
Attend cultural performances with respect.
Respect sacred sites; avoid touching or remove artifacts.

Economic Impact

Stay in locally owned pensions de famille to support families.
Patronize local snack bars, restaurants, and markets.
Hire local guides and private drivers for tours. Consider ethical tours with G Adventures.

Positive Legacy:

Commitment to sustainable and responsible travel protects the environment and culture, enriching your own journey through fostering connections.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, combining Marquesan islands or extending your journey to other parts of French Polynesia offers a comprehensive experience.

Island Combinations

Focus on exploring one or two main islands to avoid excessive travel.

Recommended Pairings

Nuku Hiva & Hiva Oa: 3-4 days each for separate attractions.
Adding Ua Pou (basaltic peaks) or Ua Huka (wild horses) for 2-3 extra days.
These isles each offer a different Marquesan experience.

Logical Next Destinations

Most travelers pair the Marquesas with the well-known Society Islands for a wide-ranging French Polynesian journey.

Popular Options

Tahiti: The international gateway, often for a few days of exploration.
Moorea: A short ferry from Tahiti, known for mountains and bays.
A Stunning island in french polynesia: Famous for overwater bungalows and turquoise lagoon.

Transportation Connections

Domestic and sea travel connect the islands.

Inter-Island Travel

Air Tahiti: Domestic flights between Marquesan islands and to Tahiti.
Aranui 5: A cargo-passenger ship for comprehensive inter-island journeys.
Book inter-island flights well in advance.

Suggested Longer Routes

Longer stays offer a chance for more in-depth exploration.

Sample Itineraries

2-3 Week Itinerary: 7-10 days in Marquesas, followed by 7-10 days in Society Islands.
Aranui 5 Specific Route: A 13-14 day cruise encompassing Marquesas and Tuamotus, beginning and ending in Tahiti.
Long-term stays: Focus on one or two islands for cultural immersion and a slower pace.