Tahiti Ecotourism
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Raiatea & Taha'a Ecotourism

Raiatea & Tahaa - These two islands are really only separated by a little bit of water and share a common coral reef. It is thought that at one time, they were one and the same island. If you love sailing, this is the Tahitian area that you should visit and you can make a quick sailing trip to the island of Bora Bora from here.

Taha'a, the "Vanilla Island," offers a seemingly magical peek into the lives of the Tahitians. The, savory smells of vanilla waft through the air as you coast along the fourty-two mile road along the coast, peppered with small mountains and local villages. Taha's is right next to Raiatea, the "Sacred Island."

There are many sights and experiences to be had on the beautiful islands of Taha'a's and Raiatea.

Vanilla Tours. The "black gold" plant that Taha'a is most known for: Vanilla. Taha's is responsible for over eighty percent of Tahiti's Vanilla export. There are numerous tours of these plantations available, along with demonstrations of the process of pollinating and producing vanilla.

Coral Reefs & White Sand Beaches

Many coral reefs along Taha's have great spots for picnics. Also, the beautiful and silky white sand beaches are a great a great place to take a walk, get a tan, read a book, or just relax.

Rent Your Own Island

Taha'a is surrounded by many small islands that are available for rent. You can have an entire island to enjoy by yourself or with your loved ones.

Water Sports & Activities

Both Taha'a and Raiatea offer exciting water sports, such as jet skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The many coral reefs around the islands offer great sights and adventures for divers.

Aside from the many tourist activities, there are also many small villages you can explore. On Raiatea is the town of Utoroa, which has many interesting and unique "mom and pop" shops, as well as arts and crafts by local artists.

Photo Courtesy Tahiti Tourisme
(Copyright Danee Hazama) Photo: Luxury Yacht "Tu Moana" from Bora Bora Cruises
(Copyright Thierry Zysman) Photo: Motu and Raiatea lagoon

RAIATEA AND TAHA'A ECOTOURS

Raiatea and Taha'a are twin tropical islands. They are known as one of the best sailing locations in the world due to the valleys and deep bays here. Raiatea and Taha'a are very quiet locations that very few tourists visit. The Tahaa Resort contains the greatest density of people but everywhere else is extremely secluded and deserted.

Despite being so secluded, there are still a plethora of activities awaiting the traveler at Raiatea and Taha'a. These include river cruises, boat excursions, kayaking, scuba diving, discovery tours and of course, sailing.

There are a few groups that organize river cruises in Raiatea and Taha'a. One notable mention is the half day Faaroa River Cruise. On this cruise on the legendary Faaroa River you'll see the awe inspiring botanical garden and you'll also have the opportunity to snorkel around a motu. There is also a similar cruise that goes to Mare Taputapuatea as well and at this sacred site you can visit the famous pearl farm.

If kayaking is more your cup of tea then you can take a kayak through the lagoon in Raiatea. It is a half day kayak excursion to Motu Ofetaro and a motu picnic is included in the trip. The Hawaiki Nui Hotel runs this tour.

Kayaking is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery whilst paddling down the Faaroa River. Your guide can also tell you about the fascinating history of this exotic location.

Discovery tours include the excellent half day Raiatea Discovery. On this tour you'll be able to visit many historical and traditional sites. In addition you can enjoy the beautiful plantation including a vanilla plantation at Vanilla Island.

Scuba diving here is as good as anywhere in Tahiti. A unique aspect of scuba diving here is the Nordby which is a 3-masted ship which sunk in 1900. Diving to this shipwreck is a unique experience. In addition to the ship wreck are at least 20 amazing diving sites including canyons, passes and drop-offs. If you are interested in seeing humpback whales then make sure you visit from July to October which is when these monstrous mammals pass by.

Sailing is generally reserved for experienced sailors however there are opportunities for lessons and courses catering for beginners.

Raiatea and Taha'a are two of Tahiti's best kept secrets. If you want a vacation with very few people around and surrounded by splendid nature and vegetation then Raiatea and Taha'a are excellent destinations.

 
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