Visit Marquesas Islands

Inspired and captivated by the idyllic tropical scenery, lush green vegetation overflowing with orchids, spider lilies and ginger jasmines, vibrant culture and warm welcoming hospitality of the locals, many artists, poets, adventurers and musicians, like Gauguin, Jack London, Herman Melville and Captain James Cook have considered the remote and fascinating Marquesas Islands as a fantastic "hideaway" to give freedom to their creative minds and souls. They have recorded in song and captured on canvas the smiling faces of children leaving school, the spectacular beauty of dense tropical forests, the magnificent waterfalls, violent and rocky coast, distant beaches, as well as a horde of wild horses on a deserted plateau.

Known as "Te Henua Enana" or "Land of Men" in Polynesian, the volcanic Marquesas Islands is one of the most scenic regions in the world due to its coast made up of wonderful bays and dramatic cliffs front, offering still pristine mysterious ambience waiting to be discovered. Unique to Marquesas Islands is that there is no reef and volcanic islands just pop out from the deep blue ocean.

Situated on the eastern edge of Polynesia, approximately 930 miles northeast of Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands comprise an isolated group of 12 volcanic islands, of which 2 are small rock islands and only 6 are inhabited. Divided into two groups of northern Marquesas, discovered by U.S. sailors in the 18th century, and southern Marquesas, discovered by Spaniards in 16th century, the islands cover a land area of 492 square miles and have a population of more than 7,500.

Formed from two volcanoes, Nuku Hiva (formerly known as Île Marchand and Madison Island), is the largest of the Marquesas Islands, offering tourists magnificent landscapes, intriguing archeology, quality wooden handicrafts and a plethora of activities to enjoy and experience, such as hiking, horseback riding and diving. Nuku Hiva is a magical island with an abundance of natural wonders, like 1000-foot waterfalls, towering mountains, and rich flora and fauna. The town of Taiohae is the administrative capital of the Marquesas Islands, situated at the foot of the deep Taiohae Bay.

The seahorse-shaped Hiva Oa is the largest of southern group of the Marquesas archipelago, featuring deep beautiful valleys, a lush plateau and dense forests. Sightseeing highlights include Paul Gauguin Museum where you can find items related to the painter's stay, and copies of his works, the Oipona me'ae temple, the eight feet tiki Takaii, the largest stone tiki in Polynesia as well as the pretty bays of Nahoe and Hanamenu. Hiva Oa is also recognized for the amazing Tahuata, the visible remains of a huge sunken volcano.

Marquesas Islands offer many land and water activities to make your holidays unforgettable. You can choose from a wide selection of adventures including land excursions, picnics on the beach or mountains, safari truck, hiking over mountain trails and to inland cascades, motorboat rides, deep-sea fishing and other water sports.

The primary accommodations in Marquesas Islands are mainly found in the islands of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa, treating guests to unparallel comfort and warm traditional hospitality. Hiva Oa Hanakee Pearl Lodge is a wonderful getaway with contemporary comforts and breathtaking views of the rugged coast. Facing the fantastic mount Temetiu (3,903 feet), the hotel boasts 20 bungalows, each with a private terrace and other room amenities. You can find an elegantly designed swimming pool with plenty of nearby activities. Baby sitting is available upon request.