Overview
The Marquesas Islands are among the most remote inhabited islands on Earth, forming an archipelago of about a dozen volcanic islands in French Polynesia. The islands offer dramatic landscapes of steep green mountains plunging into the sea, ancient archaeological sites with stone tiki and petroglyphs, and a unique Marquesan culture with intricate woodcarving traditions.
Culture · Diving · Island · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Most accommodation is on Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa. Lodges on hillsides overlooking bays offer peaceful ambience and French-influenced cuisine.
Connectivity
As one of the most remote inhabited island groups on Earth, internet and phone connectivity are limited. Plan for minimal connectivity during your stay.
Language
Most people speak both Marquesan and French. Two thirds speak Marquesan most at home, one third speak French most at home. English is not widely spoken.
Safety
Wild horses occasionally use the roads. Hiring a local guide is advisable for negotiating steep, rugged roads. Medical facilities are limited due to the remote location.
Transport
Air Tahiti connects Nuku Hiva to Tahiti (3.5 hr) with weekly flights from Bora Bora and Rangiroa. Inter-island flights to Hiva Oa take 35 minutes. The Aranui 5 cargo cruise visits 6 inhabited islands on 14-day voyages.