Marquesas Islands Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful Marquesas Islands and create your itinerary with this comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation options, local customs, safety tips, and transportation logistics.


Introduction to Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands, a group of volcanic islands located in the South Pacific Ocean, are a hidden gem in French Polynesia that has been largely undiscovered by mainstream tourism. This makes it the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the untouched beauty of the Pacific. Known for its rugged terrain, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, the Marquesas Islands offer a unique atmosphere for adventure, relaxation, and learning about the local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands offer a vast array of attractions for travelers, from culturally significant sites and historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Marquesas Islands:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hiva Oa Island: The island is home to many historical landmarks, including the final resting place of Paul Gauguin, the famous French painter.
  • Espace Culturel Paul Gauguin: A museum dedicated to Paul Gauguin’s life and works, it is located on the island of Hiva Oa.
  • Cathedral of Notre Dame des Marquises: A stunning cathedral located in the quaint town of Taiohae, Nuku Hiva.
  • Museum of Marquesan Culture: This museum displays the cultural and historical significance of Marquesan artifacts and is located in the town of Taiohae, Nuku Hiva.

Natural Attractions of Marquesas Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fatu Hiva Bay: Known for its crystal clear waters and picturesque beaches, Fatu Hiva Bay is ideal for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
  • Aakapa Bay: A breathtakingly beautiful bay that is ideal for camping, hiking, and swimming.
  • Ua Pou Island: A stunning island known for its high peaks, deep valleys, and steep basaltic cliffs. It is an excellent spot for hiking and sightseeing.
  • Vaipo Waterfall: A serene and gorgeous waterfall, located in Puamau, Hiva Oa Island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands offer some of the best hiking and biking routes in the world, and visitors can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views while exploring the scenic trails. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in the Marquesas Islands include:

  • The Matatei Hiking Trail: A challenging trail that leads to the top of the Matatei Plateau, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Hakaui Valley Hike: This trail takes hikers through the stunning Hakaui Valley, passing by waterfalls and lush vegetation.
  • The Hanavave to Vaipo Hike: This trail takes hikers through the iconic landscape of Stone Towers and offers stunning views of Vaipo Falls.

Best Things to Do in Marquesas Islands: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do in the Marquesas Islands. Some of the popular activities and tours are:

  • Whale Watching: Visitors can go whale watching in the waters surrounding the Marquesas Islands and witness the majesty of these magnificent creatures.
  • Snorkeling and Diving: The waters surrounding the islands are crystal clear and filled with an abundance of marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving.
  • Cultural Tours: The Marquesas Islands are famous for their unique culture, and visitors can learn about the region’s rich history and heritage by exploring the historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marquesas Islands

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Marquesas Islands:

Day 1: Arrive in Nuku Hiva, explore the island’s charming town of Taiohae, and visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame des Marquises. Day 2: Hike the Matatei Plateau trail and take in the breathtaking panoramic views. Day 3: Explore the Hakaui Valley hike and visit the impressive Hakaui Waterfall. Day 4: Visit the Museum of Marquesan Culture and Espace Culturel Paul Gauguin on Hiva Oa Island. Day 5: Whale watching excursion in the waters surrounding the islands. Day 6: Snorkeling and diving adventure in the crystal-clear waters of Fatu Hiva Bay. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the stunning beaches of the Marquesas Islands.

Food and Drink Scene of Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands have a unique food and drink scene that offers a mix of both Polynesian and French flavors. Here are a few of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poisson Cru: A Polynesian dish consisting of raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice.
  • Umu: A traditional Marquesan meal that is cooked in an underground oven and consists of fish and vegetables.
  • Breadfruit: A popular Marquesan staple that can be served as a side dish or a main course.

Local Beverages

  • Hinano Beer: A Tahitian beer that is popular in the Marquesas Islands.
  • Kava: A drink made from the root of the kava plant that is used in traditional ceremonies.
  • Coffee: The Marquesas Islands have a thriving coffee culture, and visitors can enjoy locally roasted coffee.

Where to Stay in Marquesas Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Marquesas Islands offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are a few options:

  • Hiva Oa Hanakee Pearl Lodge: A luxury hotel located on the island of Hiva Oa, offering stunning views of the Pacific.
  • Nuku Hiva Keikahanui Pearl Lodge: Another luxury hotel, located on the island of Nuku Hiva, offering fantastic views of the bay.
  • Pension Motu Iti: A cozy guesthouse located on the island of Hiva Oa, offering budget-friendly accommodation options.

What to Buy in Marquesas Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are a few souvenirs and local products visitors can bring home from the Marquesas Islands:

  • Tapa cloth: A traditional Marquesan fabric used in clothing and crafts.
  • Marquesan wood carvings: Intricate carvings made from the local woods.
  • Pearls: The Marquesas Islands are known for their beautiful pearls, which can be purchased in local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands have a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved for generations. Visitors can learn about the local customs and etiquette by observing the following:

  • Respect the Tapu: Marquesan culture has a traditional concept of the Tapu, which refers to the forbidden or sacred. Some areas and objects have specific Tapu, and visitors are expected to obey them.
  • Embrace the Heiva: The Marquesans are proud of their culture and celebrate it through the annual Heiva festival, a colorful celebration of dance, music, and art.
  • Follow Dress Codes: Dress codes may vary for different occasions, but visitors are expected to dress modestly while visiting churches, temples, and sacred places.

Best Time to Visit Marquesas Islands

The best time to visit the Marquesas Islands is between April and November. This is the dry season when the weather is sunny and temperatures range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marquesas Islands

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Learn a few words of the Marquesan language to communicate with the locals.
  • Explore the natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Dispose of trash improperly.
  • Touch the Tapu objects and areas without permission.
  • Avoid making loud noises in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marquesas Islands

Travelers to the Marquesas Islands should be aware of the following safety tips and precautions:

  • Carry sufficient sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Marquesas Islands

Travelers should be aware of the following health concerns:

  • The closest hospital is in Tahiti; in case of serious medical emergencies, patients will need medical evacuation to Tahiti or Hawaii.
  • North American travelers are advised to get their routine vaccinations before traveling to Marquesas Islands.
  • Visitors are advised to carry travel insurance, with medical evacuation coverage in case of emergencies.

Getting to Marquesas Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Marquesas Islands have limited transportation options, but there are ways to get to the islands.

Airports Near Marquesas Islands

The two main airports in the Marquesas Islands are:

  • Nuku Hiva Airport (NHV)
  • Hiva Oa - Atuona Airport (AUQ)

Bus Stations Near Marquesas Islands

There are no bus stations in the Marquesas Islands

Other Options

The only way to get to the Marquesas Islands is by air.

How to Get Around in Marquesas Islands

The best way to get around the Marquesas Islands is by renting a car or hiring a driver. Biking and hiking are also options to get around and explore the islands.

Where to Go Next from Marquesas Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Travelers can explore other beautiful places in French Polynesia and the Pacific by visiting the nearby destinations and excursions, such as:

  • Tahiti: A French Polynesian island known for its stunning beaches, black pearl shops, and luxury resorts.
  • Bora Bora: A well-known island in French Polynesia, famous for its beautiful lagoon, overwater bungalows, and coral reefs.
  • Easter Island: A remote island in the Pacific Oceans, famous for its moai statues and ancient Polynesian culture.

Conclusion

The Marquesas Islands offer a unique experience for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Pacific. Whether visitors are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxation on pristine beaches, the Marquesas Islands have something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, travelers can plan their itinerary and discover the hidden treasures of French Polynesia.



    Hiva Oa