Tahiti Ecotourism
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Marquesas Ecotourism

The Marquesas, a beautiful series of 12 islands, were once known as "Te henua Enata" - Or "The Land of Men." The islands, located about 1000 miles northeast of Tahiti, were first found by Spanish explorers back in 1595.

The islands were originally formed volcanically, and have since been eroded to the shape we now know today. The tallest mountains tower over the islands at over 4000 feet. In addition to its mountains, the islands also sport deep valleys, sharp cliffs, beaches of volcanic sand, and dangerous waters. Because of these conditions, only 6 out of the 12 islands are currently inhabited.

At one point, the Marquesas Islands were inhabited by over 80,000 people. Unfortunately, various diseases brought in by outside countries drastically cut this numbers.

 

The Untouched Natural Place.

Archeologists believe that the Marquesas natives were originally settled about 2,225 years ago. Unfortunately, most of the culture of the original inhabitants were lost or overridden when the Spanish took over.

The Marquesas is now part of the French Polynesia. The original inhabitants of this island are considered some of the most advanced in Polynesia culture. The people of the Marquesas Islands had their own unique language, and also had their own style of carving. They also invented tattooing long before it was available to the western world.

Today, the Marquesas is one of the few untouched natural places in the world. Almost always shrouded in beautiful clouds, the wild and luscious forests, the dark lava rocks, and the turquoise oceans make this one of the most beautiful places in the world.

 

 

Photo Courtesy Tahiti Tourisme
(Copyright Philippe Bachet) Photo: Marquesas Tapa
(Copyright Frederic Payet) Photo: Nuku Hiva Horses

 

 

MARQUESAS ECOTOURS

The Marquesas Islands are a unique set of Tahitian islands in that they do not feature a reef like the other islands. They are volcanic islands with their roots in the deep ocean floor. The Marquesas are characterized by beautiful bays and sheer cliffs, resulting in one of the most dramatic scenery regions in Tahiti.

The Marquesas has a rich local culture and there are some small villages here with traditional inhabitants. Wood carving, dancing and tattooing are all local specialties. Accommodation in the Marquesas Islands is centered on Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa which are the two largest islands.

Nature lovers will be in heaven in the Marquesas Islands. Here you will find amazing hidden waterfalls, forests, remote beaches, mountains and other wild environments that are untouched by humans. You can discover these on horseback, boat or by four wheel drive touring.

In addition to natural wonders on the Marquesas Islands are some splendid archaeological sites containing petroglyphs, stone tiki and ancient dwellings. The Marquesan people are warm and friendly and will be all too happy to amaze you with their stories of culture and history. You can support the local people by shopping in their stores for craft, sculptures and other artifacts.

Archaeological discovery safaris can take you on an enchanting adventure into sacred sites like ceremonial complexes and stone temples. Hatiheu, a small village, is where you can find ancient petroglyphs and ruins at Kamuihei and Hikoku. The Marquesas were believed to be settled by humans well over 2000 years ago and this Polynesian heritage remains strong today.

The local Marquesas people will amaze you with their dancing style which is a unique cultural trait. Tattoos of the temporary variety are also very popular and they encourage tourists to engage in this practice.

Marquesans are well known for their amazing wood carving skills and you can view these at the artist's studios. There are some wondrous displays of plates, bowls and statues all made from native woods like purplewood and rosewood. These designs are unique to the Marquesans and are found in no other culture on earth. The Paul Gauguin Cultural Center has an exhibition displaying these dramatic creations.

Some of the other activities available to visitors to the Marquesas Islands include:

Visiting the tomb of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel.

Hiking with a guide into Hakaui Valley

Deep water diving with whales, manta rays and hammerhead sharks

Taaoa Valley archeological site tours

There are four airports in the Marquesas. These are located at Nuku Hiva, Ua Pu, Ua Huka and Hiva Oa.

The Marquesas truly are an astonishing destination full of history and culture that will not disappoint.

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