Discover Tahiti and French Polynesia
Tahiti's breathtaking beauty makes it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island is surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore vibrant coral gardens, encounter exotic fish species, and even swim alongside friendly dolphins and majestic whales.
The island is also home to lush tropical rainforests, with Mount Orohena, the highest peak in French Polynesia, dominating the landscape. Adventurous travelers can embark on hiking expeditions to discover hidden waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, and panoramic viewpoints offering an awe-inspiring vista of the island.
Tahiti is not only blessed with natural wonders but also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The local population, known as Tahitians or Maohis, have preserved their traditions and way of life despite the influences of European colonization. Traditional Polynesian ceremonies, dance performances, and artisanal crafts can still be experienced throughout the island.
The vibrant capital city of Papeete is the economic and cultural hub of the archipelago. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local markets, known as "Le Marché," to sample delicious French-Polynesian cuisine, purchase colorful handicrafts, and engage with friendly locals. The city is also home to the vibrant waterfront area of Vaiete Square, where visitors can enjoy live music, street performances, and indulge in traditional Polynesian dances.
For those seeking relaxation, Tahiti offers an array of luxurious resorts and spa retreats scattered along its pristine coastlines. Bora Bora, a small island located northwest of Tahiti, is particularly renowned for its overwater bungalows, offering guests exclusive accommodation with direct access to the turquoise lagoon.
Water activities are a significant draw for visitors to Tahiti. Aside from snorkeling and scuba diving, the island offers opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and deep-sea fishing. Tahiti's legendary waves attract surfers from around the world, with the Teahupo'o reef break being one of the most famous spots.
While Tahiti offers numerous natural and cultural attractions, it can be an expensive destination for travelers due to its remote location and the exclusivity of many resorts. However, there are options for various budgets, including guesthouses, known as "pensions," which offer a more affordable yet authentic local experience.
To reach Tahiti, most visitors will fly into Faa'a International Airport, located just outside of Papeete. Several airlines operate regular flights connecting Tahiti with major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia.
In conclusion, Tahiti is a slice of paradise in the South Pacific that offers a tropical getaway filled with natural wonders, cultural experiences, and luxurious resorts. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, visitors to Tahiti will undoubtedly be enchanted by its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and vibrant Polynesian culture.
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Featured Hotels for Tahiti and French Polynesia
Our Featured hotels are contained within our range of varied itineraries across more than 25 different destinations. These have been specifically selected by us so that they would naturally fall into your perfect tailor-made holiday.
Selected Hotels for Tahiti and French Polynesia
Our Selected hotels are the hotels that we would love to have feature within our itineraries but there just isn’t enough room. That said, if one catches your eye that appeals to you, and you wish to swap it for one of our Featured hotels than please speak to your concierge today to swap it in.
Featured Destinations
Bora Bora Private Sailing Half Day Tour
***
A truly ecological way to discover the world's most beautiful lagoon. A unique approach offered by Vitamin Sea catamarans. Designed to navigate in shallow waters, they are equipped with wide nets for maximum proximity to the crystal-clear waters and an incredible view of the aquatic world. Relax on the sun loungers, enjoy the ambient music and enjoy the floating bar. During this Full Day tour, sail around the island inside and outside the lagoon to catch different perspectives, discover the marine life; enjoy the floating bar experience in shallow pristine water…Picnic lunch will be served feet in the water by a beautiful motu. The Vitamin Sea LUX, a 46-ft catamaran, combines elegance and performance to ensure unrivalled sailing comfort on the lagoon.
Highlights:
Get onboard Vitamin Sea LUX and sail all around the island
Relax on the sunbeds as you are gliding on the most amazing waters, enjoying a smooth ride and a chilled drink while the wind is blowing on the sail and the background music is playing via the sound system.
Capture amazing views of dramatic Otemanu Mountain
Watch the sting rays through the trampoline in the shallow waters
Anchor in the shallow waters and jump in for the floating bar experience
Sail outside the lagoon, along the reef, and capture amazing views
Snorkel at the coral garden and admire the marine life
Enjoy a breathtaking islet and snorkel with the eagle rays while your lunch is being prepared. Taste the local delicacies served on your table feet in the water. Walk along the white sand beach to the reef or enjoy a last swim with the rays in their natural environment before heading back to your resort.
Pure Snorkelling in Bora Bora Half Day Tour
***
This is the best way to explore marine flora and fauna on a trip for swimmers of all levels. Your qualified diving instructor will instruct you and help you explore the beauty of the coral gardens, leopard and manta rays during 4 visits to protected sites on board one of the most comfortable boats on the waters (Larson 254).
The first stop is in shallow water - around 2 meters deep maximum - on a calm spot to discover sea anemones and plenty of little clown fishes! The ideal stop to familiarize yourself with a mask and snorkel for those who are experiencing snorkeling for the 1st time.
The Manta Rays, the highlight of the tour. Along a wall of lace corals, follow the most impressive & peaceful rays that can reach 4meters wide…Equipped with a life jacket, follow your guide and the ballet of the rays.
Experience the Coral Garden: a real bed of corals in shallow water hiding an underwater fauna & flora untouched and full of colours. You might even spot a moray eel pointing the tip of his nose…
Includes: Guided tour with a diving instructor, beverages provided during the tour: water, soft drinks, juice, wetsuits and life jackets when needed, snorkeling equipment, beach towels.
Pick up 8.30am drop off 12.00pm.
Combo Tour Walk at 3 Pines Pass & Lagoon Discovery Tour
***
For those who don't know what to choose between the sea and the mountains, opt for both! Moorea offers superb landscapes both in the interior of the island as well as on the lagoon. In the morning, go on an easy hike through the pineapple fields, to the Belvedere viewpoint, up to the 3 Pines pass. Superb panorama of Moorea's two bays. Discover archeological remains along the trail. After a delicious lunch of local delicacies, relax on board a comfortable boat and visit the two bays by the lagoon. Option to snorkel and swim among sting rays and black tip sharks. What a great day in sight!
Includes transfer to and from your hotel with pick up at 8am and drop off approximately 3pm.
Private Grande Catamaran 3-night cruise in Tahiti
***
The Iti Iti cruise is THE perfect cruise for a first sailing trip. A unique experience, on a `nomade` floating and moving bungalow. You are the only passengers on board, under the discreet attention of the 2 crew members, the English-speaking skipper guide and hostess cook. This program is private and exclusive.
What's included:
- Meals included, with the exception of lunch on the first and last days of the cruise. The breakfast is
continental. All drinks are optional (supermarket price + 15%).
- Leisure equipment available on board: 2 sea kayaks or 1 sea kayak/1 stand up paddle board depending on availability, snorkeling equipment (fins, mask, snorkel), fishing line.
- Visits and excursions as mentioned below.
- Everyday comfort (converter from 12V to 110V/220V , USB + AUX autoradio, bimini to protect yourself from the sun).
- Paying options for scuba divers: private dives with instructor and gear on board
Day 1: Taha’a (1h30 of sailing in the lagoon)
You'll be collected at the pontoon of your hotel: Le Tahaa.
Boarding the catamaran (1 pm, after lunch, with mandatory paying lunch)
Presentation of the crew, briefing including a run-through of the itinerary
Sailing to motu Mahaea
Visit of a vanilla plantation, with the possibility of buying top quality pods on site
Nautical activities: stand up paddle board, kayaks, snorkeling gears
Dinner on board, night mooring
Day 2: Taha’a - Bora Bora (3 to 4 hours of sailing, fishing along the way)
Continental breakfast on board
Sailing to the motu Tau Tau, exploration of the coral garden
Sailing to Apu bay, visit of a pearl farm and possibility to buy directly from the producer
Lunch on board
Sailing to Bora Bora, moor at motu Toopua
Nautical activities: stand up paddle board, kayaks, snorkeling gear
Dinner on board, night mooring
Day 3: Lagoon of Bora Bora
Continental breakfast on board
Sailing to Povai bay
Visit of the village of Vaitape, shopping, bank, internet
Sailing along the Islets
Meet the rays, or on paying option, visit a natural aquarium where you can watch sharks
and rays feed, and swim with hundreds of fish and turtles
Lunch and dinner on board, night mooring
Day 4 Depart
Breakfast on board then disembark at 1pm on the pontoon of the Four Seasons Bora Bora.
Combo Tour 4WD Safari & Waterfall
***
Full Day Tour
Highlights
Several stops offering sightseeing of Moorea
Morning: stops at the Magic Mountain, pineapple plantations, plateau of the Bounty, Belvedere, marae (ancient Polynesian temples),
Tropical Garden.
Lunch: Pointe of Temae, on a coral beach not very busy with tourists and residents. Bathing possible. Picnic included with drinks.
Afternoon: Afareaitu Waterfall and freshwater natural small pool. Beautiful preserved place.
Itinerary:
Follow your guide for this full day tour of Moorea! Spend your morning in 4WD discovering the interior of the island, its magnificent panoramas and cultural beauties. Lunch time will be enjoyed reef side at the Pointe de Temae, with a typical Polynesian dish served with a glass of punch. A short break will enable you to stroll along the beach, collect up some nice shells and swim in the lagoon.
In the afternoon, you will be driven to Afareaitu where an easy climb of about 15mn will take you to one of the waterfalls of the valley. Do not hesitate to take a dip! An enjoyable moment for the discovery of the different facets of Moorea.
ATV Tahaa Adventure
***
Explore Tahaa on a 4-hour Quad tour with a native guide. Follow off-road trails to discover three panoramic viewpoints, a pearl farm, the Vanilla Valley and a rum distillery. Cross a pineapple field, visit Marae Vaima'i and historic sites. An adventure that reveals the island's natural and cultural diversity. Finish the Tour with a tasting of local fruit and refreshments.
Included in this guided tour; tasting of local fruit & refreshments at the end of the tour.
Departs 9am returns 1pm.
Cultural Immersion in Bora Bora full day tour
***
Immerse yourself into the heart of Polynesian culture by boarding this superb motorized outrigger canoe decorated with traditional symbols. Discover the local history and culture with your guide Narii who will also accompany you during the snorkelling stops. The experience continues with a break on a private motu where no less than 43 species of fruit trees and tropical plants are cultivated. A sports session with an introduction to the traditional pirogue (va'a) will whet your appetite to enjoy a tasty lunch of local specialties before setting up for a few cultural workshops.
Maximum 12 persons on the tour. English-speaking guide. Motu lunch included.
Mountain 4WD Safari Tahiti
***
Full Day Tour
Highlights
The expedition starts at 10:00 am on the East coast.
You will delve into the heart of Tahiti by exploring the main crater nestled in the Papenoo Valley. You'll be delighted by lush vegetation, dotted with giant ferns and a variety of tropical plants. Crossing several rivers in your 4WD, you'll have the opportunity to admire the cascades and mist-covered mountains of the island.
Enjoy a refreshing dip before lunch break.
Lunch will be provided at the Maroto site, in a small restaurant (to be paid in cash on the spot) with a panoramic view of the valley.
The afternoon will be dedicated to visiting sites such as Lake Vaihiria and Blue Lake, along with explanations about the local fauna and flora.
Itinerary:
Explore the heart of Tahiti aboard an off-road vehicle. Take in the sights of the Papenoo Valley, renowned for its rivers, and enjoy unique panoramic views of its waterfalls and tropical vegetation. It's a peaceful place where nature warmly welcomes you. Throughout this adventure, your guide will be by your side to enlighten you on the local fauna, flora, and geological features. Feel free to ask any questions!
Lunch break is scheduled at the Maroto site. Picnic tables or a restaurant are available on-site (cash payment required).
Natura Discovery 4WD Safari Bora Bora
***
Half Day Tour
Itinerary:
Get in a 4WD vehicle to discover the wild interior of Bora Bora, its WW2 remains not forgetting the spectacular panoramic views over the lagoon’s blue shadings.
A circle island tour of Bora Bora with 5 main stops that will show you a sample of Bora Bora island's rich culture:
Marae Fare Opu -
This is the largest marae in Bora Bora and its huge upright coral stones indicate that it was reserved for kings. Petroglyphs representing turtles have been carved into two of the stone slabs on the façade of the Ahu (altar). The turtle was sacred to the ancient Polynesians. It was offered to the gods and only chiefs and priests could eat it.
Vestiges of the 2nd World War -
Cannons and bunkers are still visible on this hill overlooking the lagoon of Bora Bora. The cannons are turned towards the only pass of the island. It is also a superb viewpoint on the lagoon and Vaitape.
Pareo De Mama Ruta Workshop -
This is an opportunity to learn how these beautiful multi-coloured dyed pareos are created and how the patterns are printed. You can even order your own personalised pareo which will be delivered to your hotel a few days later. Toilets available on site.
Arret Beach of Matira -
A stop at the must-see white sand beach of Matira, the best place to admire the beautiful colours of the Bora Bora lagoon.
Arret 'Hiro's Rock' -
Your guide will tell you the legend around this imposing rock which stands as if out of nowhere. 2 other of the 8 cannons present on Bora Bora, relics of the Second World War are accessible via a path; it is also a superb panoramic viewpoint.
Many other small sites to be visited and details about Bora Bora's history and culture to learn during the tour.
Culinary Experience Moorea Food & CookLab
***
Half Day Tour
Itinerary:
Get into an exciting taste and cultural journey, discover the Polynesian culinary side ! The products, their history, their uses. Start with a visit to the vegetable garden, learn about the use of local plants in the dishes and the various cooking methods. After some explanations and demonstrations, it's up to you to put on the apron! Equipped with common cooking tools like at home, combine the products with each other, try your hand at different traditional cooking techniques that reveal new flavors, make the best sauces and sides. Finally, sit down to eat your creations and enjoy a moment of sharing. And for the adventure to continue, take with you all the tips and recipes to reproduce or adapt at home the best of your culinary experience!
Snorkeling Guided Tour Takehau
***
Half Day Tour
Highlights:
A great alternative for those wishing to discover Tikehau's seabed without a bottle.
-Stop at the former pearl farm:
This site is very popular with our black-capped ladies, the Manta Rays, as they come here to be dewormed and fed.
-Stop at the fishermen's village:
Small snack served by the locals. An excellent opportunity to share with the locals, who are fishing experts, skilled craftsmen and excellent cooks.
-Tuheiava Pass (channel):
You'll return to your snorkelling tours around the pass in search of dolphins, an exciting moment as we scan the horizon for small fins.
-Tikehau Pass (channel):
Famous for its many species, including tiger sharks, hammerheads, leopard rays, barracudas and napoleons.
-Stop at the lagoon's coral garden:
to discover the many species of tropical fish and blacktip sharks, splendidly preserved coral.
Itinerary:
Discover the underwater beauties of Tikehau during this guided snorkeling trip. After a snack near the local the fishermen's village, you will go to the ocean side to observe dolphins and then in the lagoon to look for manta rays and swim in the coral garden. Observe the wonderful world of triggerfish, damselfish and other tropical fish.
Akivai Floating Lounge Sunset Cruise
***
Highlights:
Departure at the end of the afternoon towards Opunohu bay, listen to the legends around this bay and admire the beauty of the stunning landscape.
Cocktail & appetizers served as the sun sets.
Itinerary:
Make yourself comfortable aboard this floating lounge featuring 2 separate seating areas and admire the stunning colors of the lagoon before the day slowly fades. The turquoise tones of the lagoon give way to the orange and red colors of the blazing sky as the sun disappears behind the horizon.
Sip a cocktail served with homemade appetizers and enjoy a moment of pure relaxation.
Tahiti's breathtaking beauty makes it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island is surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore vibrant coral gardens, encounter exotic fish species, and even swim alongside friendly dolphins and majestic whales.
The island is also home to lush tropical rainforests, with Mount Orohena, the highest peak in French Polynesia, dominating the landscape. Adventurous travelers can embark on hiking expeditions to discover hidden waterfalls, ancient archaeological sites, and panoramic viewpoints offering an awe-inspiring vista of the island.
Tahiti is not only blessed with natural wonders but also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The local population, known as Tahitians or Maohis, have preserved their traditions and way of life despite the influences of European colonization. Traditional Polynesian ceremonies, dance performances, and artisanal crafts can still be experienced throughout the island.
The vibrant capital city of Papeete is the economic and cultural hub of the archipelago. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local markets, known as "Le Marché," to sample delicious French-Polynesian cuisine, purchase colorful handicrafts, and engage with friendly locals. The city is also home to the vibrant waterfront area of Vaiete Square, where visitors can enjoy live music, street performances, and indulge in traditional Polynesian dances.
For those seeking relaxation, Tahiti offers an array of luxurious resorts and spa retreats scattered along its pristine coastlines. Bora Bora, a small island located northwest of Tahiti, is particularly renowned for its overwater bungalows, offering guests exclusive accommodation with direct access to the turquoise lagoon.
Water activities are a significant draw for visitors to Tahiti. Aside from snorkeling and scuba diving, the island offers opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and deep-sea fishing. Tahiti's legendary waves attract surfers from around the world, with the Teahupo'o reef break being one of the most famous spots.
While Tahiti offers numerous natural and cultural attractions, it can be an expensive destination for travelers due to its remote location and the exclusivity of many resorts. However, there are options for various budgets, including guesthouses, known as "pensions," which offer a more affordable yet authentic local experience.
To reach Tahiti, most visitors will fly into Faa'a International Airport, located just outside of Papeete. Several airlines operate regular flights connecting Tahiti with major cities in Europe, North America, and Asia.
In conclusion, Tahiti is a slice of paradise in the South Pacific that offers a tropical getaway filled with natural wonders, cultural experiences, and luxurious resorts. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, visitors to Tahiti will undoubtedly be enchanted by its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and vibrant Polynesian culture.
Language
Currency
The unit of currency in French Polynesia is the French Pacific Franc (XPF), divided into 100 centimes. The exchange rate is fairly stable as it is linked to the Euro. Apart from Maupiti, all the main islands in the Society group have at least one banking agency, while only Rangiroa has permanent banking services in the Tuamotus. There are Banque Socredo agencies on 'Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa in the Marquesas, and some banking services on Rurutu and Tubuai in the Australs group. Banks are the best place to change foreign currency, though rates of exchange are not as good at hotels. Travellers will find ATMs on main islands; hotels and restaurants on main islands accept credit cards.
Electricity
Tipping
Tipping in Tahiti and the islands is not required or expected - it is seen as contrary to the local custom of hospitality. Generally prices quoted are all-inclusive.
Safety
Visits to French Polynesia are usually trouble-free. The crime rate is low, but sensible precautions should be taken with valuables. Tropical storms and cyclones can occur between November and April.
Communications
The international dialling code for French Polynesia is +689 and the outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). Wifi is available in the larger hotels and resorts; travellers can purchase local SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Health
A yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers to French Polynesia arriving from an infected area. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B are recommended, and those staying long-term and eating outside of major hotels and restaurants may also want to consider a vaccination for typhoid. Malaria is not a concern but cases of dengue fever are on the rise so precautions against mosquito bites should be taken.
Tap water in hotels and resorts should be safe to drink, but bottled water is also available throughout the islands. Tahiti has decent medical facilities and there are a few private doctors and clinics in the outer islands but healthcare options are limited outside of major cities. The only decompression chamber is at Papeete. Comprehensive medical insurance is recommended for all travellers.
Public Holidays
| 2021 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Day | 25 Dec | 25 Dec |
| Good Friday | 10 Apr | 2 Apr |
| New Year's Day | 1 Jan | 1 Jan |
| Easter Monday | 13 Apr | 5 Apr |
| Labour Day | 1 May | 1 May |
| Victory Day | 8 May | 8 May |
| Ascension Day | 21 May | 13 May |
| Whit Monday | 1 Jun | 24 May |
| Internal Autonomy Day | 29 Jun | 29 Jun |
| Bastille Day | 14 Jul | 14 Jul |
| Assumption | 15 Aug | 15 Aug |
| All Saints' Day | 1 Nov | 1 Nov |
| Armistice Day | 11 Nov | 11 Nov |
| Gospel Day | 5 Mar | 5 Mar |
Business
Business etiquette is relatively informal in Tahiti and French Polynesia. French is the main language of trade, however English is often understood in more popular tourist areas and main urban centres. Business hours are generally 8am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.
Passport & Visa
All foreigners entering French Polynesia must hold return tickets or documents for onward travel and proof of sufficient funds. Although French Polynesia doesn't officially require it, it's recommended that passports have six months of validity remaining prior to travel.
Customs
The culture in Tahiti and French Polynesia is relaxed and welcoming, with hospitality and generosity considered important values. People greet each other with a handshake or kiss on the cheek, and it is considered impolite not to greet everyone in the room unless there is a large group. Guests should remove their shoes when entering someone's home.
Duty Free
Travellers aged 18 or over who are arriving with goods purchased in the EU do not have to pay customs duty on 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars or 1 kilogram of tobacco; 90 litres of wine, 110 litres of beer or cider and 10 litres of alcoholic spirits. Passengers arriving from non-EU Member States do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacoo; 4 lites of wine, 16 litres of beer or cider and 2 litres of spirits.
Contacts
Tahiti Tourisme, Papeete, Tahiti: www.tahiti-tourisme.com
20 (Police), 120 (Fire), 15 (Ambulance)
Entry Requirements
Embassy Consulates
Embassy Consulates
Attractions
French Polynesia consists of more than 100 islands so it can be hard to know where to start exploring. Most trips begin in the capital, Papeete, which is situated on the island of Tahiti, home to more than 60 percent of French Polynesia's population and the country's main airport. Tahiti is one of the most popular islands with travellers, boasting vibrant markets and some famous surf spots as well as good infrastructure and pretty beaches.
Other famously attractive French Polynesian islands include Bora Bora, known for its beautiful luxury resorts and a favourite with honeymooners and celebrities; the lovely Moorea, which is conveniently close to Tahiti and celebrated for its sandy beaches and watersports; and Rangiroa, which is widely considered one of the best scuba diving and snorkelling destinations in the world.
Travellers might also want to investigate the various charms of islands such as Huahine, Raiatea, Taha'a, Wallis, Nuka Hiva, Tikehau, Fakarava, and Hiva Oa. The options are almost endless and natural beauty is guaranteed whichever island travellers visit.
Island hopping can prove expensive as the islands of French Polynesia are widely spread over about 1,600 square miles (4,160 sq km), which is one reason that many first-time travellers are more than content to explore Tahiti and nearby Moorea, which are connected by a regular ferry service. Cruises can be booked and cargo ships are often happy to transport travellers for a fee, but flying is still often the only practical option.
Climate
French Polynesia enjoys tropical, warm, and humid weather all year round, averaging eight hours of sunshine per day. The islands experience a rainy season, generally between late October and early March, when cloudy skies and brief heavy rain showers can occur. During the rest of the year, rain is rare and temperatures are constantly high, tempered sometimes by refreshing breezes. The water temperature ranges from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C), making for extremely pleasant bathing all year round. The most popular time to visit is between May and the end of October, when temperatures are a bit milder and there is less rain, but outside of this peak season the comparative emptiness of the resorts and corresponding special prices compensate for the hotter weather.
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