Sustainable Journeys: Moorea

Protecting Nature

Support local efforts like Moorea Coral Gardeners, dedicated to coral reef restoration and conservation. Visitors can learn or even adopt coral.

Marine Safeguards

Parts of Moorea's lagoon have MPAs. Observe regulations: no fishing, no anchoring in certain areas, no touching or stepping on coral. These rules protect fragile ecosystems.

Waste Responsibility

French Polynesia addresses waste challenges. Minimize waste using reusable water bottles (refill from safe tap water or filtered dispensers), reusable shopping bags, and refusing single-use plastics.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Mindful actions reduce your environmental footprint during your visit.

Reduce & Recycle

Recycling facilities exist but may appear limited for tourists. Inquire with your accommodation about their recycling practices.

Practical Tips

Minimize waste using Reusable products.
Use Reusable shopping bags.
Refuse single-use plastics (straws, plastic bags, plastic water bottles).
Carry out what you carry in, especially on hikes or beach visits.

Water Awareness

Fresh water remains a precious resource on islands. Mindful usage conserves this asset.

Conservation Habits

Take shorter showers.
Turn off taps when brushing teeth.
Reuse towels (hang them up).
Be mindful of water usage in accommodations.

Flight Footprint

Flights represent a carbon footprint.

Offsetting Your Travel

Consider reputable carbon offset programs. Terrapass
Many airlines offer this option directly during booking.
Use independent organizations.
Minimize internal flights when possible.

Conscious Choices

Look for accommodations with certifications or stated environmental policies. Choose tour operators that practice ethical wildlife viewing.

Green Travel

Seek water-saving and energy-reduction measures. Ecobnb
Select operators maintaining respectful distances from marine life.
Do not feed wild animals, especially sharks and rays.
Opt for small group tours to minimize disturbance.

Gear & Giving Back

Pack Responsibly

Consider durable, eco-conscious outdoor gear.

Patagonia

Support Conservation

Contribute to rainforest protection initiatives.

The Rainforest Site

Responsible Travel

Your actions contribute to Moorea's future. Traveling with companies like G Adventures supports ethical tourism.

Cultural Reverence

Engaging with Moorea's culture respectfully deepens your experience.

Heritage Safeguards

Support local cultural centers and initiatives that preserve traditional Polynesian arts, crafts, and practices. Attend cultural shows that genuinely represent local traditions.

Support Local Arts

Visit cultural centers.
Purchase local crafts directly from artisans.
Attend authentic cultural shows.
Learn about traditional Polynesian practices.

Engaging Courteously

Always be polite and friendly. Modest dress in villages and religious sites is advisable.

Interaction Tips

Politeness and a smile make a positive connection.
Learning basic Tahitian phrases shows respect.
Maintain a respectful demeanor in all interactions.
Avoid public displays of anger or frustration.

Picture Courtesy

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children. A simple gesture and a smile often suffice. Respect private property.

Photography Rules

Do not photograph if signs indicate restrictions.

Ceremony Respect

Avoid photography during religious ceremonies.

Privacy Matters

Prioritize privacy and personal space.

Heartfelt Travel

Cultural sensitivity enriches connections and ensures a meaningful journey.

Local Benefits

Responsible travel supports the local economy and ensures tourism benefits Moorea's community.

Local Support

Family Stays

Stay in pensions de famille (family guesthouses).

Authentic Welcome

Provides a genuine experience of Polynesian hospitality.

Local Economy

Your money remains within the community.

Ethical Shopping

Purchase souvenirs and handicrafts directly from local artisans or small, independent shops rather than large, chain retailers.
This supports traditional craftsmanship.
When buying black pearls, choose reputable dealers who source ethically and provide certificates of authenticity.

Dine & Explore Local

Dine at roulottes (food trucks) and local restaurants. These businesses are often family-owned and contribute directly to the local economy.
Buy fresh produce from local fruit stands or markets.
Book tours with local, independently owned operators.

Mindful Contributions

Environmental Efforts

Consider donating to reputable local non-profit organizations focused on environmental conservation, like Moorea Coral Gardeners.

Community Growth

Support local initiatives aiming for community development.

Meaningful Giving

Structured giving through organizations has a structured and meaningful impact.

Support Local

Your financial decisions directly support Moorea's community and conservation.

Sustainable Journeys