Get to know (and love) islands that will make your South Seas dream come true.
Nuku Hiva
The island of Nuku Hiva is not only the administrative centre of the Marquesas. It is also home to the idyllic village of Taiohae on the beach of an enchanting bay, which nestles into the mountains like a gigantic volcanic amphitheatre and has towering cliffs from which waterfalls roar.
In Hatiheu, you can learn more about the history and rich culture of the island kingdom at the archaeological site of Kamuihei. In the valley of Taipivai, you will discover stone tikis and sacred ritual sites (me'ae). Enigmatic images can be found everywhere in the rocks. The culinary highlight is lunch. A traditional meal prepared in an underground oven (umu).
Ua Huka
Although the island is the least populated, it is also home to many wild horses, goats and pigs. It is also home to two endemic bird species: the pati'oti'o and the pihiti. You should be wide awake in the morning so as not to miss the point turn in the famous bay of Vaipaee, which requires a great deal of experience and sensitivity from the captain and crew. Highlights of the island are: the museum with excellent replicas of Marquesan artefacts. The gardens of the arboretum and the botanical garden in Hane and the fishing village of Hokatu. As well as a visit to the workshops of the wood carvers who produce beautiful black and white coconuts with carved patterns.
Ua Pou
Ua Pou, mystical and inhabited by warm-hearted people, is often called "Cathedral Island". You will realise why when the Aranui docks in the bay of Hakahau: The harbour is framed by a dozen basalt peaks up to 1,141 m high. Many of the crew members come from here. The unique "Flower Stones" as well as carvings and children's clothing await you in the centre for handicrafts. Don't miss the dance performance, which includes the typical Ua Pou bird dance, and don't forget your camera.
Hiva Oa
Near Atuona, the former capital of the archipelago, you can discover an excellently restored large collection of ceremonial platforms (tohua) on which tribal chiefs and priests once sat. In the village of Puamau you will visit Mea'e Iipona, the most important archaeological site in the region with its ancient, human-like stone figures, the tiki. Your guides will explain everything you need to know as you walk through the mysterious ruins of Puamau. Back in Atuona, take a walk to the cemetery, which is home to the graves of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel. Our tip: Visit the Gauguin Museum and the Brel Museum in the town.
Fatu Hiva
The most lush and remote island in the Marquesas is known for its handicrafts. Look over the women's shoulders as they make tapa by pounding the bark of the mulberry, banyan or breadfruit tree on wooden blocks in order to use the treated bark as a canvas for traditional motifs. Or learn how to make kumuhei, the typical bundle of herbs that women use to perfume their hair. In Hanavave, the Bay of Maidens, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, you can enjoy a dance performance full of Pacific joie de vivre.
Tahuata
Tahuata, the smallest inhabited island in the Marquesas, has a very eventful and moving history: from the Spaniards, who murdered around 200 curious locals in 1595, to the first missionaries in 1797 and the first French settlement in the Marquesas.
in the Marquesas, which was founded in 1842. Photo tip: The large church built by the Vatican is decorated with beautiful carvings and a stained glass window depicting the Marquesan cross.
Fakarava
The second largest atoll in French Polynesia is protected as a biosphere reserve. As a result, Fakarava has retained its unspoilt nature and its breathtaking lagoon and white sandy beaches and offers a rich ecosystem with unique birds, plants and a diverse underwater world. Particularly beautiful: the small village of Rotoava with its coral-built
Church.
Rangiroa
Rangiroa, which means "wide sky", is the largest atoll in French Polynesia and the most visited in the Tuamotu archipelago. Snorkellers and divers get their money's worth here. You might spot one of the majestic manta rays. The atoll is also known for its impressive pearls in all shades and ornate mother-of-pearl jewellery. On a visit to one of the Tuamotus' pearl farms, you will learn how the gemstones of the sea are cultivated.
Bora Bora
The most famous island of the Society Islands is a South Seas dream come true in four ways: its breathtaking lagoon, the palm-fringed white sandy beaches, the majestic backdrop of Mount Otemanu, coupled with the blue and green tones of the lagoon. The island is surrounded by a ring of small islets (motus). On this perfect island paradise, you can enjoy a day on the beach of a private motu while the crew conjures up a delicious picnic with Tahitian dishes. Afterwards, you can book optional activities such as an island tour by bus or boat, a helicopter flight, an off-road tour in an off-road vehicle or an exciting feeding of sharks and rays.
Wegbeschreibungen abrufen...