Tahiti to the Marquesas: French Polynesian Discovery

Overview

Follow in the path of early Polynesian navigators on this epic voyage. From the aquamarine atolls of the Tuamotu Islands to the lush volcanic peaks of the mysterious Marquesas, you’ll visit some of the most remote and compelling sites in the far reaches of French Polynesia.

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Arrive in Papeete, Tahiti early this morning and check into your room at the tropical InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa. Spend the day adjusting to island time and enjoying the resort’s many amenities, or join in for a leisurely afternoon excursion. This evening, connect with your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail party.

Today, join an island tour and have lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on the National Geographic Orion.

Spend two days exploring this idyllic archipelago. Experience with all your senses while learning the geological distinction between volcanic islands, atolls, and uplifted coral atolls, like the stunning island of Makatea, one of the most unique landforms in the Pacific. See the spectral remains of a mining operation as you hike through a primeval landscape with your expedition team, to discover an incredible limestone grotto. Birders might add endemics such as the imperial pigeon or the Makatea fruit dove to their lists. Snorkelers will revel in the protected reefs of gorgeous Fakarava, one of the largest atolls in French Polynesia and part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Conditions permitting, ride the current into the vast lagoon on a world-famous drift dive or snorkel.

A relaxing day at sea brings you to one of the most remote and historic island groups on Earth, the Marquesas. One never forgets the first sight of lovely Hanavave Bay, fronting one of the world’s most soul-stirringly beautiful islands Fatu Hiva. Be sure you’re on deck and camera-armed as we arrive at one of the most storied shorelines in the entire Pacific. Enjoy a warm Polynesian welcome on a visit to a remote village where you’ll see displays of well-made, uniquely Marquesan arts and crafts. Choose a challenging hike through landscapes studded with sculptural granite and stunning flora to a remote waterfall, or Zodiac to the next bay where local transport takes you birdwatching deep in the Omoa Valley.

At Hiva Oa, the plan is to land at Atuona. Stop for a fresh-baked French baguette before a short visit to Calvary Cemetery and the gravesites of French artist Paul Gauguin and Belgian, Jacques Brel, both revered on the island. You’ll visit the village of Puamau to explore a well-maintained Marquesan sacred site, a me’ae Iipona. Accompanied by the team and knowledgeable local guides, you will learn about religious rites, and get the chance to photograph one of the largest, most arresting ancient tikis in Polynesia.

If you read Herman Melville’s Typee in prep for your voyage, you’ll thrill doubly to the green-mantled, rugged silhouette of Nuku Hiva, the largest and most imposing of the Marquesas. End your Polynesia adventure here to fly back to Papeete, and connect to your flight home.