The Marquesas raise their breathtaking peaks in a reef-less ocean, and hold open-air archeological treasures in deep, lush valleys.
Fenua Enata or Henua Enana, “Land of Men” in Marquesan, is the archipelago furthest from
Tahiti. Only 6 of the group’s 12 islands are inhabited : Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Pou, Ua Huka, Tahuata and Fatu Hiva.
The lilting Marquesan language, the songs and rhythmic haka dances, the traditional decorative arts (tattoo, sculpture, tapa, petroglyphs), the cuisine, the revival of sandalwood are as many specificities and matters of pride for the Marquesan people. In the footsteps of Melville, Stevenson, Gauguin, Segalen and Brel, plunge into the most authentic that the Marquesas can offer..
What you should know : inter-island connections are done in Beechcraft or Twin-Otter planes, helicopter or water-taxi. Airports are quite distant from villages, and you’ll experience some impressive 4WD rides on the dizzying Marquesan trails… only try this in dry weather! Also, the nonos or tiny mosquitoes can be quite present. Protect yourself with long-sleeved and long-legged clothes at dusk and with insect repellent.
The Marquesas archipelago as many assets :
Islands with grandiose landscapes…
With their winding trails where each turn is a belvedere onto multiple vistas, the Marquesas Islands offer the permanent spectacle of nature at the dawn of time, in which men carved out a small space. The beauty of these islands is on the scale of Titans! With an indispensable local guide, the varied and quite physical treks and hikes are unforgettable. Less tiring, 4WD excursions and horseback rides are just as memorable.
Unique scuba diving spots…Because there are no barrier reefs, scuba diving in the Marquesas is an open-sea adventure. Under the waves, the foundation of the islands is pierced with fantastic underwater cave ; rare splendor, reserved for experienced divers.
Archeological and artistic treasures…Mountain trails lead to many archeological sites where the tallest tiki in Polynesia stand
guard. The exceptional site of Puamau on Hiva Oa alone is worth the trip.
Other spectacular excursions will take you to tohua - the ancient Marquesan dancing, singing and banqueting grounds -, to paepae hiamoe - the impressive platforms that were the foundations of former homes, to marae - religious sites also called mea’e, and to more than 7 000 petroglyphs.
Diving's directory 
Marquesas islands: Kaoha nui
