Click HERE to see a map of The
Marquesas
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. with the main islands being, Hiva
Oa, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Tahuata, Ua Huka and Ua Pou
The islands and the islander's way
of life has changed very 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!
All our itineraries are tailor-made
to your exact requirements, but if you would like some ideas for
itineraries and guide prices, please click HERE