Tahiti Travel Guide
The Complete Guide to French Polynesia
French Polynesia
Table of Contents
The French Polynesia overseas territory covers an area of 2000 kilometers but is sparsely populated. The five archipelagos of the South Pacific have a population of only 250,000 people. Because of its vast geographical size, French Polynesia has multiple climate zones. Traveling to the southern islands, for example, can be even cooler.
The archipelago is in the same time zone as Hawaii, with a 12-hour time difference between Switzerland and French Polynesia. The most direct route to the islands is through Los Angeles. Tahiti’s main island is home to Papeete Airport, which is an excellent starting point for your trip to French Polynesia.
Tahiti – the pinnacle of French Polynesia
Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia’s Society Islands and is often used as a catch-all term for the entire archipelago. When visiting Tahiti, it is best to bring your snorkeling goggles with you at all times, as all of the beaches have beautiful crystal clear waters with always something new to discover.
A visit to the rarely visited island of Huahine is an insider tip for your trip to Tahiti. The ruins of the Maraes, who are considered the region’s indigenous people, can be found here. Because of its beauty, the island has been compared to the Garden of Eden.
The islands of French Polynesia are divided into groups
French Polynesia is separated into five distinct archipelagoes or island groups. The territory is a French Republic semi-autonomous overseas entity. This Overseas Territory is made up of 118 islands that are physically separated throughout a 1200 square mile (2000 km) stretch of ocean in the South Pacific.
The Tahitian People are named after Tahiti, the largest and most inhabited island, with over 70% of the population.
Society Islands
The Society Islands are the largest of the five archipelagoes. Tahiti and its sister island Moorea offer a spectacular view of huge craggy mountain peaks and stunning turquoise lagoons. Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora, also known as “The Pearl of the Pacific,” are part of the Society Islands Leeward group.
Divers can enjoy exceptional visibility while diving, hiking, and going on excursions, as well as visiting historical sites and museums.
- Windward Islands: Tahiti and Moorea
- Leeward Islands; Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa, Bora Bora, and Maupiti
With its magnificent emerald-green and turquoise-blue lagoon, Bora Bora is undoubtedly the most famous of all the islands. Overwater bungalows overlook the lagoon, which is surrounded by atolls and reefs. Every year, a rising number of ardent sun lovers and mesmerized tourists gather to these famous shores to pay homage to them.
- Learn more about the Society Islands
Marquesas Islands
This archipelago will enchant you with its dizzying mountains, archaeological treasures, and ocean devoid of coral reefs. Tattooing, sculpting, outstanding traditional dances, and festivals will all be on display.
Its islands, such as ua huka, hiva oa, fatu hiva, ua pou, and nuku hiva, provide everything you need. You will be following in the footsteps of Gauguin and his last magnificent paintings while exploring the Austral Islands. Many wood carvings, a traditional Polynesian art form, can also be found.
- Learn more about the Marquesas Islands
Austral Islands
This archipelago also includes five high islands with a milder, colder climate. Traditional handicraft is notably evident here, with baskets, hats, and mats made from pandanus by women.
Rimatara, Rurutu, Tubuai, Raivavae, Rapa, and Marotiri are the archipelago’s principal islands. You can participate in traditional Polynesian activities such as braiding and crafts, diving, potentially seeing whales, visiting caverns, and visiting the Marae (a sacred place constructed of volcanic stones).
- Learn more about the Austral Islands
Tuamotu Archipelago
The Tuamotu Archipelago is made up of 76 islands that cover a total area of 20,000 km2. The atolls are famed for their magnificent dive sites and pearls, but they’re also little paradises for anglers of all kinds, as well as explorers looking for unique and unexpected experiences.
Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, Fakarava, Takapoto, Anaa, Mataiva, Kaukura, and many other islands make up the archipelago. Divers will enjoy the Rangiroa lagoon which is the largest lagoon in the world.
- Learn more about the Tuamotu Archipelago
Gambier Islands
It is made up of five high islands and 18 motus (islets) that are all connected by a single lagoon. The Gambier Islands are the most gorgeous pearl of the South Pacific, as you will soon discover. Mangareva, Temoe, Morane, Moruroa, Tematangi, Fangataufa, and Maria are among the Gambier Islands.
Polynesian crafts and pearls are primarily sold here.
- Learn more about the Gambier Islands
French Polynesia short facts
Location
Tahiti and her islands and atolls make up French Polynesia, a country made up of five island groups or archipelagoes in the South Pacific.
Country Code
689
Capital City
Currency
The Central Pacific Franc is the official currency of French Polynesia’s islands (international abbreviation: XPF). In February 2022, $1 is worth approximately 150 XPF. Please keep in mind that not all islands have ATMs! When traveling to Maupiti, you should withdraw enough money ahead of time because paying in cash is the norm here. However, there is no ATM and thus no way to withdraw money.
Credit Cards
On the larger islands, major credit cards are accepted in most places. On the smaller islands, cash may be required for transactions.
Language
The official language of French Polynesia is French, but the majority of the locals speak Reo Mao’hi. From my own observations, English is only spoken by a small percentage of the population outside of tourist areas. Nonetheless, it is possible to visit the islands without knowing French.
Electricity
Depending on the location, hotels use either 110 or 220 volts. A converter/adapter is frequently required for bringing appliances, including computers.
Ethnic groups
Approximately 75% are Polynesian, 15% are European, and 10% are Chinese.
Religion
The majority of the population is Christian (Protestant and Roman Catholic), with a minority of Latter-day Saints and Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Government
Since 2003, French Polynesia has been a French overseas collectivity (COM), or overseas country within the Republic of France, which means that the local government has some autonomy but no jurisdiction over justice, higher education, security, or defense.
Tipping
Tipping is not common practice in Tahiti.
Time Zone
TAHT (Time Zone) (UTC -10hrs)