Hidden in the heart of the South Pacific, the Marquesas Islands are a remote treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture and unspoiled wilderness. Comprising six main islands—Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Pou, Tahuata and Fatu Hiva—this archipelago offers an unforgettable adventure. Whether you enjoy hiking, diving or art, or relaxing on pristine beaches, the Marquesas Islands beckon.
Dive into this Marquesas Islands travel guide, uncover the best things to do and how to experience the raw beauty and vibrant culture of this remote paradise. Keep reading to plan your ultimate adventure!
Where are the Marquesas Islands?
The Marquesas Islands, part of French Polynesia, are located about 1,500 kilometres northeast of Tahiti. Known for their dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys and towering peaks, they are among the most remote inhabited islands in the world. Their isolation has preserved their raw beauty and deep cultural roots, making them a dream destination for travellers seeking authenticity.
Also called Te Henua ‘Enata, or “The Land of Men” in the Marquesan language, this destination boasts rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls and majestic bays. No matter where you go, you will be enveloped in mana, the spiritual force that is part of their rich Marquesas Islands culture.
How to Get to the Marquesas Islands
Travelling to the Marquesas requires some planning. Most visitors fly into Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport and take a connecting flight to Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa, the two primary getaways. Inter-island travel is accessible via small planes, cargo ships, or Marquesas Islands yacht cruising, which offers a unique way to explore the archipelago.
Alternatively, Air Tahiti and Air Moana operate a weekly three-hour and 20-minute direct flight from Papeete. The flight from Nuku Hiva to Hiva Oa takes 50 minutes.
Best Time to Visit the Marquesas Islands
This paradise destination has two main seasons: dry (January to July) and wet (August to December). The best time to visit the Marquesas Islands is during its dry season, as it is more suitable for a trip to the archipelago. September and October are best because you can experience the best of Tahiti and her islands without being too wet.
Travellers may also book a trip during November and December. Rainfall is at its lowest and flight prices drop sharply before increasing again in December as the holiday approaches. However, December has its perks: every two years, the archipelago organises the Marquesas Arts Festival. It happens each time on different islands for a great cultural and identity mass.
While the destination is relatively windy, it does not influence the Marquesas Islands’ weather. During the dry season, there may be a whole day of rain. Temperatures are constant, averaging 23° to 28° and peaking at 31°.
Marquesas Islands Travel Guide
Nuku Hiva: the Islands of Legends
The largest island in the archipelago, Nuku Hiva, is a mesmerising blend of rugged beauty and Marquesas Islands history. With towering mountain peaks plunging into the Pacific, dramatic rocky shores and lush valleys leading to cascading waterfalls, it’s the kind of destination that belongs in an adventure film. Located 1,400 kilometres from Tahiti, it’s a remote paradise that takes a three-and-a-half-hour flight to reach. But, once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with landscapes and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else.
There’s no shortage of things to do in the Marquesas Islands, especially in Nuku Hiva. Explore the breathtaking Vaipo Waterfall, hike through the lush Taipivai Valley or embark on an unforgettable Marquesas Islands hiking adventure to the To’ovi’i Plateau, where sweeping views await. History lovers can uncover ancient petroglyphs and tiki statues in Hakaui and Kamuihei, offering a window into the island’s storied past.
For nature enthusiasts, Marquesas Islands wildlife is just as captivating. Manta rays, dolphins and an abundance of marine life thrive in these pristine waters, making Marquesas Islands diving an unmissable experience. Whether you’re trekking through untamed landscapes, uncovering Polynesian history, or diving into the depths of the Pacific, Nuku Hiva promises an adventure like no other.
Hiva Oa: the Artistic Soul of the Marquesas
Known as the final resting place of French painter Paul Gauguin and Belgian singer Jacques Brel, Hiva Oa is a haven for art, history and culture. Many visitors make a pilgrimage to their graves at the Calvary Cemetery, perched on a hillside with stunning ocean views. Art enthusiasts will also appreciate the Gauguin Museum, which, while not housing his original works, offers an insightful collection of reproductions and artefacts that provide a glimpse into his life on the island.
Beyond its artistic legacy, Hiva Oa is celebrated for its lush, fertile landscapes, earning it the title of the “Garden of the Marquesas Islands.” The island is dotted with ancient archaeological sites, including the largest tiki statues in Tahiti, standing as silent witnesses to a rich Polynesian past. Adding to its untamed beauty are the Marquesas Islands beaches, where striking black volcanic sand meets towering cliffs, creating a dramatic and unforgettable coastline.
While exploring this remote paradise, be sure to sample Poisson Cru, a local delicacy of raw fish marinated in coconut milk, at one of the island’s charming eateries. Then, unwind on the secluded shores of Hanatekuua Beach, where the tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery offer the perfect escape.
Ua Pou: Peaks of Paradise
Ua Pou offers a surreal landscape with awe-inspiring panoramic views of jagged volcanic spires and deep emerald valleys. It is a geological marvel unlike any other in French Polynesia. Four towering basalt peaks reach above the surrounding mountains and seem to anchor the island. Two of these basalt pillars, Poutetaunui and Poumaka, reach high into the sky. They offer breathtaking views of the volcanic pinnacles, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
A trek through Vaieuhu Valley reveals a lush oasis filled with waterfalls and fruit plantations. Travellers can also walk behind the small port and feast their eyes on stunning views of surrounding mountain peaks and the bay below. If you’re lucky, you might also chance upon the island’s talented artisans showcasing intricate wood carvings and tattoo designs, preserving the Marquesas Island’s artistic heritage. Make the most of this opportunity and purchase authentic locally-made paintings, jewellery and wood, stone and bone carvings.
Ua Huka: The Island of Horses
With a population of fewer than 1,000 people, Ua Huka is a serene retreat known for its wild horses and untouched landscapes, particularly its dry soil and arid plains. It is unspoiled and authentic, with its vast open spaces making you think of self-discovery.
Make sure to include hiking through Ua Huka’s verdant valleys, where you’ll probably stumble upon some petroglyphs or archaeological sites, or climb up one of its sky-piercing peaks for a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean you’ll never forget.
Horseback riding across the island’s rugged terrain is a unique way to explore its beauty. These majestic creatures were first brought in from Chile in 1856 and are now abundant enough to be strongly associated with the island. Apart from horses, wild goats climb the slopes and ridges of this mystical destination. In fact, they even outnumber the island’s residents!
Tahuata: Haven of Scented Flowers
The smallest of the six inhabited islands and only accessible from Hiva Oa, Tahuata is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and exquisite carvings. It is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with vibrant marine life thriving in its waters. This island is a haven of peace and tranquillity, offering pleasant surprises for visitors at every turn.
Visitors can explore bone and wood carving studios in the village of Vaitahu, where skilled artisans craft stunning pieces, particularly those made from cattle, horse bones and swordfish rostrums. Selling these superb sculptures is one of the primary ways local inhabitants earn their living. They also produce mono’i, the renowned Tahitian oil made from dried coconuts, infused with the scents of local flowers like tiare Tahiti or frangipani.
While you’re here, remember to visit Coconut Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Marquesas. It provides the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the island’s natural splendour.
Fatu Hiva: Remote and Rewarding
Remote and breathtakingly wild, Fatu Hiva is the least accessible island but one of the most rewarding to visit. It is cut off from the world and can only be reached by boat, so if you’re planning to go off the grid, Fatu Hiva is the destination you’ll want to consider.
Despite its isolation, Fatu Hiva is one of the hearts of Marquesan crafts. Try walking to the small village of Omoa and your eyes will be caught by Tapa cloths bearing Marquesan designs painted with dyes made from mulberry, breadfruit and banyan bark.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, conquer the incredibly windy and steep road to Hanavave in the Bay of Virgins. Often considered one of the most picturesque bays in the world, Bay of the Virgins can be tackled by road in a 4WD, on horseback or by foot.
Embark on an Unforgettable Marquesan Adventure
Step into a world untouched by time with this Marquesas Islands travel guide, where dramatic cliffs rise from the vast Pacific, and nature thrives in its wild, unspoiled beauty. The Marquesas are a place of adventure and deep cultural heritage, where ancient traditions still shape daily life. From exploring sacred archaeological sites to witnessing the artistry of local tattooing and wood carving, the islands offer a rare glimpse into Marquesas Islands history.
Whether you're seeking rugged landscapes, rich cultural encounters or simply the serenity of a truly remote escape, the Marquesas promise an experience like no other. Start planning your journey today. Talk to our travel experts or visit our blog to uncover the wonders of French Polynesia’s most captivating hidden gem.
