Second major center of the Marquesas archipelago, Hiva Oa is a romantic destination in the noble sense of the word. Its spectacular landscapes and its gentle way of life attract travelers in search of renewal. After visiting Nuku Hiva, continue your discovery of the islands north of Tahiti.
Welcome to Hiva Oa
Like Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa is a volcanic island without a lagoon. Overhung by Mount Temetiu, its lands are crossed by high mountains and deep valleys with overflowing vegetation. Its coastline is dotted with heavenly bays with black sand beaches, interspersed with mighty cliffs.
The 2400 inhabitants live in small villages with colorful houses. Most of them live in the main town of Atuona, a charming village on the Taaoa bay and close to the airport. Very nicely decorated, it will be the starting point for all activities from hiking to diving, including expeditions to the neighboring island of Tahuata. Outside of the villages, almost 320 km² of pristine areas await you.
The island is very well served from Tahiti, with a daily flight. Accommodation on Hiva Oa is provided by guesthouses, a small hotel in the hills and several Airbnb-type vacation rentals. For a perfect immersion in contact with attentive hosts, two addresses stand out, namely the Pension Kanahau and the Pension Villa Enata. They both offer accommodation in bungalows with a view of the bay.
Why Go to Hiva Oa
Hiva Oa is known as the Garden of the Marquesas, a thinly veiled reference to paradise on earth. Incomparably beautiful scenery, pristine spaces untouched by modern activities, a place where you can escape and learn to live again. Before you, men and women have left everything to realize this dream. Among them, famous artists: the Frenchman Paul Gauguin and the Belgian Jacques Brel. The island now dedicates cultural centers to them in Atuona.
This waking dream continues in contact with the history and legends of the Marquesas. Buried under the mountains and vegetation, the archaeological sites of the ancient civilization live on forever. Hiva Oa has an extraordinary cultural heritage, composed of mysterious and divine stone statues, the famous tikis. The remains of dwellings, religious and community buildings can be counted by the thousands and are enough to reveal the past glory of the island.
Hiva Oa is open to international visitors following the principles of green tourism and offers a beautiful catalog of activities. Many guides in hotels and guesthouses offer their services. And since 2018, the island even has its own diving center, Marquises Diving.
Things to Do in Hiva Oa
Excursion to the North Coast
From Atuona, head down the valley to the villages north of Hiva Oa. On the agenda: swimming in bays with relaxing waters, breathtaking panoramas of red cliffs and the ocean, discovery of tiny hamlets before arriving at the village of Puamau. This one hides in the heart of the dense vegetation the traces of the past Marquesan magnificence.
The site of Iipona is home to the famous giant tikis, the largest of which, the Tikaii tiki, is over two meters high. Others are just as surprising, such as the reclining tiki, depicting a lying woman. These vestiges sit in the middle of an ancient village whose stones show the paths.
To understand the intensity of the site through its passionate stories, a guide is essential. A sightseeing tour in an off-road vehicle is the best option, in order to cross the winding roads without worry and to travel in a friendly atmosphere. Hiva Oa Adventures is an excellent place to organize your tours.
Excursion to Tahuata
Less than an hour by boat from Atuona, Tahuata Island is an intimate and unspoiled destination. Its lush green landscapes topped by towering peaks conceal beautiful white sand beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxation. It is also the discovery of the picturesque villages of Vaitahu and Hapatoni, and that of the herds of wild horses.
Tahuata has earned a solid reputation in Marquesan arts. Perpetuating an ancestral know-how, its inhabitants are masters in wood or bone carving. Monoi making is also one of the island’s specialties. A great opportunity to learn about the local culture and bring back a superb artifact.
Trips from Hiva Oa are by the day. They include cultural visits, discovery of the island’s natural treasures and a Marquesan meal. For an unforgettable and colorful experience, the Marquises Diving center offers high quality excursions.
Hiva Oa, an Island of Hope
Hiva Oa is a charming destination, where it is good to escape on the hiking trails and in the ancient stories. With its beautiful scenery, it is also a haven of peace and tranquility, ideal for enjoying the slow pace of the Pacific Islands. Choose the best time to visit the Marquesas Islands and start your trip. Contact us to organize your activities in Tahiti and her islands.
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