Embark on a journey to French Polynesia, a paradise spanning four million square kilometers in the South Pacific. Explore 118 breathtaking islands and atolls, with the enchanting beauty of Tahiti as the crown jewel of the Pacific. From the vibrant energy of Papeete to serene drives along the peninsula, Tahiti offers diverse landscapes and activities to discover.
In this immersive travel guide, learn more about Tahiti’s rich culture and the awe-inspiring scenery, thrilling outdoor adventures, and romantic escapes included in our Tahiti travel packages. Plus, find useful tips to ensure your next holiday is unforgettable and worry-free.
Table of Contents
The Top 4 Things to Do in Tahiti
Discover Enchanting French Polynesian Culture
Experience the captivating culture of French Polynesia, where Tahitian traditions blend with elements of French influence.
Mana
In Tahitian culture, mana embodies a life force that holds immense power, encompassing both vitality and danger. This concept extends beyond mere authority, shaping the essence of existence. Additionally, black pearls, abundant in Tahiti, are believed to carry mana, supporting livelihoods in isolated atolls.
Tattoos
The resurgence of traditional tattooing in Tahiti reflects the enduring resilience of local customs amidst modernity. Tattoos serve as poignant markers of familial heritage, rites of passage, and key life moments. From youth to elders, Tahitians proudly adorn themselves with these symbols. In Papeete, renowned tattoo studios offer the opportunity to etch a unique memento onto your skin.
Tahitian Dance
Dance holds profound significance in Tahitian culture, serving diverse purposes from seduction to spiritual worship. Each movement carries deep intention, whether enticing a lover, confronting adversaries, extending warm welcomes, or honoring deities.
Tahitian dance culture endures today, celebrated annually during the Heiva festival in July. This nationwide event features vibrant performances and competitions showcasing the island’s best dancers.
Additionally, many of Tahiti’s prominent resorts host captivating ‘dinner and show’ nights, offering visitors a taste of the island’s rich dance heritage alongside delicious cuisine.
Marvel at Tahiti’s Natural Wonders
Embark on a journey of discovery through Tahiti’s remarkable natural wonders, where breathtaking landscapes await at every turn. Explore some of the most captivating sights:
Papenoo Valley
Spanning over a few dozen kilometers, Papenoo offers spectacular countryside filled with mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and rich vegetation, perfect for hiking, biking, or ATV tours.
Taravao Plateau
This natural wonder situated on Tahiti Iti provides breathtaking views over the strip connecting the two islands. Experience lush green countryside juxtaposed with white sandy beaches.
The Belvedère of Aorai
Located in Pirai, Belvedère offers a gorgeous panoramic view of Papeete, Tahiti’s green mountains, the turquoise lagoon, and the neighboring Moorea’s beauty.
Embark on Thrilling Outdoor Adventures
Discover thrilling outdoor adventures beyond Tahiti’s enchanting culture and stunning scenery:
Snorkeling
Explore Tahiti’s lagoons through snorkelling, with outer reefs showcasing incredible underwater sights. Top snorkelling spots include Moorea, Bora Bora, Taha’a, Huahine and Tikehau.
Scuba Diving
Experience Tahiti’s renowned ocean drop-offs and passes, home to vibrant reef fish, manta rays, barracuda, reef sharks, and encounters with whales and dolphins from August to October.
Surfing
Tahiti offers numerous surfing spots, including the famed Teahupo’o for seasoned surfers and beginner-friendly breaks like Papara and Papenoo.
Other Activities
Looking for more thrilling adventures? Opt for a Tahiti package featuring a 4×4 tour of rainforested mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and archaeological sites. Spend a full day exploring Mount Marau’s 19th-century French fortress, Tahiti’s tallest peaks, and the stunning Cascades of Faarumai, and swim in Haamaremare Rahi’s magnificent pool.
Hiking and zip-lining are also excellent additions to your Tahiti itinerary. Explore the Fautava Valley trail to immerse yourself in the island’s wild surroundings, or climb the 1,400-metre Mount Aorai with a guide.
In Moorea, experience zip-lining at Tiki Parc, offering a unique perspective of the island’s lush terrain. Challenge yourself with courses featuring walking nets, bridges, swings and rope ladders for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Add a Romantic Touch to Your Itinerary
Tahiti and its islands epitomise the quintessential romantic getaway, boasting volcanic archipelagos set against a vast azure ocean, with barrier reefs creating glittering lagoons. Amidst a plethora of experiences for couples, overwater bungalows reign supreme.
These bungalows resemble jewels atop the crystal-clear lagoon waters. Step inside to find spacious private terraces leading to the lagoon, adorned with stylish furnishings and featuring underwater windows offering glimpses of tropical fish.
Bora Bora hosts many of these bungalows, each offering a choice of two breathtaking views. Some overlook the reef and the Pacific Ocean, while others showcase the majestic Mount Otemanu. Opt for overwater bungalow and holiday packages to witness awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets set against the natural beauty of the island.
8 Travel Tips for Your Tahiti Holiday
Prepare for your Tahitian adventure with these essential tips:
- Visa-Free Travel: Short trips don’t require visas, but it’s important to bring proof of funds, accommodation, insurance, and travel plans.
- Airport and Travel Time: All flights land at Faa’a International Airport (Papeete), with a 9-hour journey from Sydney.
- Health Precautions: There are no mandatory vaccinations, but it’s best to check advisories based on your origin.
- Safety Measures: Be aware of your surroundings and safeguard your belongings at all times
- Climate Considerations: You can enjoy warm weather year-round in Tahiti, with dry seasons from June to September and less crowded periods from November to April.
- Cash Requirement: Bring cash for outer island visits, as ATMs are scarce.
- Environmental Conservation: Respect nature, observe wildlife from a distance, and remember to practice eco-friendly habits during your stay.
Discover the Beauty of Tahiti
Escape to Tahiti, the jewel of the Pacific, for your next holiday and immerse yourself in paradise. From breathtaking natural wonders to rich Polynesian culture, thrilling adventures, and romantic escapades, Tahiti offers it all. Keep our travel guide in mind for a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Featured Image by Paul McGowan from Pixabay
