To make your dream vacation in The Islands of Tahiti complete, spend a few days in the Marquesas Islands. Discover this mystical, isolated archipelago, known as ‘The Land of Men’ by visiting the six main islands: Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua POu, Ua Huka, Tahuata and Fatu Hiva.

Activities on each island

Like everywhere in The Islands of Tahiti, there’s plenty for you to see and do on your visit to the Marquesas Islands. Stay in an authentic, family run Tahitian Guesthouse, or visit the islands on a cruise. Go diving in the most northerly island, Nuku Hiva. Take a cultural tour of Hiva Oa, and see the island through the eyes of Jacques Brel and Paul Gauguin.

Visit the museums and go horseback riding in Ua Huka. If you like hiking, then visit Ua Pou or the strikingly beautiful island of Tahuata, which is renowned for its monoî oil. ‘The Land of Men’ has a rich and unique ancestral culure and is home to the most impressive tiki in French Polynesia. The Marquesan people are famously warm and welcoming and their islands are simply magnificent. Take your time when you visit them, there’s a lot to see and do.

Culture, nature, sport, beach, lagoon, village…There’s something for everyone.

« Some have such a big heart that they’re always traveling »

Jacques Brel

Jacques-Brel's tombstone at Hiva Oa © Tahiti Tourisme (1)

Did you know?

Artist Paul Gauguin and singer Jacques Brel both lived in French Polynesia. They are buried in the same cemetery on the island of Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands.

Practical information

There are regular flights from Tahiti to Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva. Travel between the islands is by passenger ferry. The roads are often steep and narrow, but you can rent a car on the main islands or go on a four-wheel drive tour with a guide. There is a range of accommodations from hotels to family run Tahitian Guesthouses.

Be inspired

Experiences

A voyage to the Marquesas Islands is nothing like a vacation in Bora Bora. Go horseback riding, hiking, visit the museums and immerse yourself in the unique ancestral culture. A visit to ‘The Land of Men’, is a mystical, magical experience that you’ll never forget.

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