The Islands of the Marquesas group are believed by many historians to be the oldest inhabited islands in French Polynesia, having first been colonised by Samoan explorers between 300 and 150 years BC. Located approximately 950 miles north east of Tahiti, the Marquesas archipelago consists of 17 islands divided between a northern and southern grouping.

The islands and the islander's way of life has changed little since the first Europeans arrived, modern buildings are few and you will only find paved roadways in the main towns on Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa. The inhabited islands are all high islands with very similar landscapes; a central mountain chain with peaks up to 3,500 feet above sea level and very deep valleys surrounded by plateaux - a 4 wheel drive vehicle or a horse are a must!

Unlike most Pacific Islands, the main islands of the Marquesas are not surrounded by coral reefs so do not have lagoons. As a result there are very few beaches and those that are there are to be found in the coves and inlets that are dotted around the islands and best reached from the sea. Because of their remoteness from Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands have been less exposed to European influences than the other islands, the islanders retaining more of their Polynesian culture than the other island people in French Polynesia. In addition to the culture, the islands offer some of the most dramatic scenery to be found anywhere in the world let alone French Polynesia. The blend of remoteness, scenic beauty and Polynesian lifestyle has attracted many writers and artists to spend time in the Marquesas, the most renowned being the artist Gauguin who died there and is buried on the island of Hiva Oa.

If you are looking for a cultural experience during your travels to French Polynesian then a visit to the Marquesas Islands is a must!