Polynesian Bliss: Marquesas, Tuamotu and Society Islands

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.

Mo’orea is one of the Society Islands of the French Polynesia. Located in the South Pacific, it is considered a magical island thanks to its majestic volcanic mountains, set against warm lagoon waters and green meadows. It is an island that attracts visitors of all abilities wanting to explore both above and below the ocean waters.

Rangiroa is French Polynesia’s largest atoll. More than 400 motu (islets) enclose the lagoon, which is so wide and long that one cannot see the southern row of motu from the two main islets in the north - hence the local name Rangiroa meaning wide or long sky, sometimes taken as ‘immense sky’. There are several passes from the ocean into the lagoon and the two main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa are located next to the passes of the same names. Drift diving and snorkeling the incoming tides looking for sharks and manta rays at these passes is one of Rangiroa’s main touristic draws. Government jobs, ecotourism and pearl farming are the main sources of income on the atoll. The lagoon’s calm turquoise waters, rich marine underwater world, and relaxed atmosphere attract visitors year-round to the many local guesthouses and a few hotels. Both Avatoru and Tiputa also feature schools for the other Tuamotu Islands which have no higher education possibilities. One of Rangiroa’s most unusual attractions is the white and rose wine produced on the islet immediately west of Avatoru - the wine has won several awards.

Shrink before amphitheater-sized bays of deep water and folded valleys clad with dense green jungle, on arrival in Hatiheu. You’ll be warmly welcomed to this raw and ravishing island of natural beauty, legend, and awe-inspiring views. Nuku Hiva is the largest of the Marquesas Islands, which are strung across a blissfully blue Indian Ocean. Remote and wonderful, you can find waterfalls tumbling from cliffs, volleyball-sized breadfruit clustering in trees, and incredible sacrificial sites and petroglyphs. Explore to see cinematic views of sprawling bays unraveling, while on breathtaking mountain hikes and drives. Or take it easy, strolling by the water and watching yachts mingling in the turquoise seas, as sharks circle for offcuts tossed by fishermen. Wild horses trot tight streets, and pigs shuffle through the undergrowth, clambering up and down dense mountainsides. Journey south to see the Tiki Tuhiva carving watching out over rich-blue waves. The gigantic statue is a proud example of the island’s resurgent culture, which was almost extinguished by European colonists. Take the chance to duck out of the afternoon sun into the stone-walled shelter of Notre Dame Cathedral, which is decorated with carved sculptures and soaring wooden eaves. The church’s crooked towers rise incongruously from the rainforest’s tangle - follow the ethereal sounds of choral singing to find it. Nuku Hiva’s ceremonial sites, crafts, and stone statues add further layers of intrigue to this magical Pacific Island.

Situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Fatu Hiva is the most isolated island of the most isolated archipelago on the planet. Sometimes called the ‘island at the edge of the world’, Fatu Hiva is also the greenest, wildest, and most mountainous island of the Marquesas. And what mountains! The island’s dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, illuminate the extraordinary Polynesian countryside and will give you the impression of being in a Paul Gauguin painting. On your arriving in this tropical paradise, you’ll be welcomed with the traditional welcome to the Marquesas Islands, ‘Mave Mai', involving ancestral dances. Let yourself be carried away by the Haka rhythm before discovering the charming village of Hanavave. After strolling among the village’s picturesque fare houses, the authentic Marquesan constructions, uncover the island’s hidden gems and secrets. Stunning waterfalls hurling down from impressive peaks forming magnificent lagoons and rushing fresh rivers. Nothing better than a hike to properly appreciate and admire the fabulous scenery that surrounds you. A real highlight of the island, the spectacular Baie des Vierges is said to be one of the most beautiful bays on Earth. These crystal-clear waters are home to myriad marine life species like manta rays or sea turtles swimming into a ballet of multicolor fishes. What more do you need to believe Fatu Hiva is a true paradise?

Situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Fatu Hiva is the most isolated island of the most isolated archipelago on the planet. Sometimes called the ‘island at the edge of the world’, Fatu Hiva is also the greenest, wildest, and most mountainous island of the Marquesas. And what mountains! The island’s dramatic cliffs and lush valleys, illuminate the extraordinary Polynesian countryside and will give you the impression of being in a Paul Gauguin painting. On your arriving in this tropical paradise, you’ll be welcomed with the traditional welcome to the Marquesas Islands, ‘Mave Mai', involving ancestral dances. Let yourself be carried away by the Haka rhythm before discovering the charming village of Hanavave. After strolling among the village’s picturesque fare houses, the authentic Marquesan constructions, uncover the island’s hidden gems and secrets. Stunning waterfalls hurling down from impressive peaks forming magnificent lagoons and rushing fresh rivers. Nothing better than a hike to properly appreciate and admire the fabulous scenery that surrounds you. A real highlight of the island, the spectacular Baie des Vierges is said to be one of the most beautiful bays on Earth. These crystal-clear waters are home to myriad marine life species like manta rays or sea turtles swimming into a ballet of multicolor fishes. What more do you need to believe Fatu Hiva is a true paradise?

Arrive at Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This coral atoll is home to many rare species of birds, plants and crustaceans, and you will have the opportunity to snorkel its protected reefs. Spend time exploring Rotoava, the main village on Fakarava. Take a leisurely bike ride, visit a pearl shop or stroll along the turquoise waterfront with a fresh coconut. Dive or snorkel through Fakrarava's Tumakohua Pass, one of the most famous drift dives in the world.

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.