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Travel to Tahiti, the volcanic island
The main island, Tahiti, is a paradise for hikers who want to discover mountainous peaks and uninhabited valleys. The island is also known for its sense of hospitality together with its festive atmosphere all year round. Tahiti and her islands have always been associated with sandy landscapes and postcard settings, and rightfully so. It is recommended you go and visit one of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia.
'Ia Ora Nna (means "Hello")
The English navigator, Samuel Wallis was the first to approach the shore of Tahiti in 1767. James Cook and Bougainville then landed on the island a few years later. The most famous expedition remains with the English ship, HMS Bounty of William Bligh in 1788. The crew mutinied on the initiative of Fletcher Christian. Sixteen sailors settled in Tahiti while the other crew settled on Pitcairn Island, There are 118 islands, 5 archipelagos, each with its own specificity, but all make up French Polynesia. Booking a flight to Tahiti, you are going to the largest and most iconic island of all Polynesia. Papeete, means "water from a basket," was once the fresh water supply for the Tahitians.
Tahiti-Faa'a airport in Papeete, the capital city of Tahiti, is the gateway to this archipelago. It is a paradise on earth with excellence. Travelers who have visited this island only dream of returning. Its luxuriant diversity, both maritime and terrestrial, concealing jewels different to each other. The nature will also surprise you. From the valleys shaped by volcanic activity to the coral sand beaches, Tahiti abounds in landscapes of exceptional beauty. Enchantment and wonder will be the order of the day!
The myth of paradise
It was during the first Europeans' visitsEuropeans visits that the myth of a Polynesian paradise was born. The accounts of the first Spanish navigators, Quiros and Mendaña, who made the first real contact in 1595 in the Marquesas, vividly described the beauty of these islands. With the Frenchman, Bougainville’s account on the island, the myth of “paradise” was set in the westerner’s imagination.
Places to visit in Tahiti Island
Go to discover Tahiti Nui
In the northwest of Tahiti, Tahiti Nui represents the largest and most developed part of the island. You can drive around the island in a few hours. However, don't hesitate to stop regularly to observe the breathtaking landscapes of the island. Enjoy the view from the Belvedere of Pirae, overlooking Papeete or put your hiking boots on and trek to the caveshe caves of Maraa and finish with a detour to the waterfalls of Faarumai in Hitia’a.
The lava tunnels of Hitia'a village
The volcanic activity that made the island of Tahiti emerge in the middle of the Pacific Ocean has left visible marks on its surface. An exceptional natural curiosity: The lava tunnels (lavatube) of Hitiaa, crossed by torrents, these agglomerates of black rocks can be traversed over several kilometers as part of canyoning trips, supervised by professionals.
Black sand beaches
Another singular volcanic heritage of the island of Tahiti, the black sandy beaches will transport you to ebony-colored stretches. Enjoy the uniqueness of these landscapes where turquoise water meets charcoal-colored sediment. The largest black sandy beaches that Tahiti has are on the east side of the island.
The peninsula of Tahiti Iti, the wild one
After your tour of Tahiti Nui, you can go to the peninsula of Tahiti, also called Tahiti Iti, less dense, less populated, but perfect for nature lovers. It will offer you a plethora of hiking and it has world-famous surf spots, including Teahupo'o.
Activities to do in Tahiti
Don't miss out on all the activities that Tahiti offers. Between marine and underwater activities to land hikes, it will even delight the most demanding visitors.
Go to meet the humpback whales off the island
It is notably off the coast of the Society Islands, of which Tahiti is part of, that humpback whales come to breed and give birth from July to November. It is possible to participate in "Whale Watching" trips to discover the cetaceans and the attachment of a whole population around these protected animals. In order not to disturb them, note that the observation of these mammals must be done with a professional approved by the Direction of the environment of French Polynesia and in the respect of well defined rules.
Hike in the heart of the island
Forget your flip-flops and put on your walking shoes for a day and enjoy the many hiking trails that can be covered on the island. Adaptable to all physical conditions, hiking on Tahiti is for everyone, the website Alltrails has moreover published an extensive guide of the best hikes on the island. It is nevertheless recommended to hire a certified guide in order to enjoy the landscapes safely.
Diving Tahiti : into the heart of a multicolored marine fauna
Go out and meet clown fish, manta rays, moray eels, tuna, groupers, sharks and all the residents that populate the coral reefs around the island. The many diving centers in Tahiti welcome you all year round to guide you to your heart’s content.
Tahitian dance, 'ori Tahiti
Here is the most emblematic expression of Polynesian culture: the Tahitian dance or the "ori Tahiti", transmitted and learnt from a very young age. Don't miss this mythical dance, full of color and rhythm of traditional percussion. You can admire the shows in the big hotels of Tahiti. Why not plan your stay in Polynesia for the Heiva I Tahiti, a great cultural festival of traditional arts, dances, songs and sports, which takes place every year from the end of June to the end of July. Cultural immersion guaranteed!
Discovering Monoï, the scent of Tahiti and her islands
Monoi, an oil that perfectly combines the sweet scents of coconut and Tiare flower, has made Tahiti famous. Discover the secret of this delicious oil during a free tour in 26 steps in Tahiti. You will discover Monoï in all its aspects: its manufacture, its ancestral and current uses as well as its natural benefits. You will also be able to meet the inhabitants and learn their beauty rituals for silky hair and immaculate skin.
Dive into Polynesian culture
The Polynesian culture is joyful and generous, all in a unique setting in the world. Polynesian are deeply attached to their culture. Dances, songs and tattoos are a real revival in today’s experience. Linked to a set of rites, the arts of the Ancient Polynesians are now taking on an international aesthetic dimension.
Pratical information
Venir à Tahiti
Entry conditions in Tahiti:
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Tahiti map
How to get to Tahiti
Flying to Tahiti from Noumea
It is easy to get to Tahiti from Noumea, check our flight from Noumea to Tahiti.
Average flight time
It takes approx 5 hours 20 minutes flying from Noumea to Tahiti. The travel time may vary depending on your itinerary.
Time difference
It is 21 hours ahead in Tahiti, French Polynesia to Noumea, New Caledonia.
When to go to Tahiti
When is the best time to visit Tahiti?
Throughout the year.
For more information on the destination, visit Tahiti Tourist Office website.
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