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The Marquesas Islands are a dream destination for adventure seekers. There are so many things to do and so much wild terrain to explore. Below you will find a complete excursion guide featuring information on the activities available on the islands of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa.
Explore the charming village of Atuona on this immersive tour. Stroll along the scenic beach, visit the cultural center dedicated to Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel, and make your way up to the hillside cemetery where these two legendary artists are laid to rest, surrounded by a serene and inspiring landscape.
Embark on a 4x4 adventure through Taiohae, the cultural heart and administrative capital of the Marquesas. Explore the village’s rich history with visits to its cathedral, archaeological sites, and local museum. Then continue to Koueva, an ancient open-air tohua once led by the famed war chief Pakoko. Your journey concludes with a stop at the Fare Artisanal, where local artisans showcase and sell their handcrafted creations.
Embark on a 2.5-hour rainforest trek through lush jungle trails and river crossings to reach the fascinating megalithic site of Tehueto. Hidden deep in the forest, this sacred site features ancient petroglyphs and a traditional me`ae ceremonial platform built above a striking tiki head. This unforgettable adventure is only accessible during dry weather due to the rugged terrain. (Difficulty: Moderate)
Journey along the scenic south coast of Hiva Oa by 4x4 to reach Taaoa, the last inhabited valley on the island’s western side. Explore the remarkable Upeke archaeological site, one of the largest ceremonial centers in Polynesia, spanning the entire valley. Discover ancient living platforms, sacred tiki statues, and sacrificial altars, all steeped in rich Marquesan mythology. Along the way, pass through the quaint village of Taaoa, with its charming stone church and small, peaceful beach.
Set off on foot directly from your hotel for a half-day hike to Tehaatiki, offering breathtaking views over the Taiohae caldera and the rugged southern coast of Nuku Hiva. As you follow the ridgeline, keep an eye out for soaring seabirds, native land birds, and wild goats navigating the cliffs. During certain seasons, you might even catch a glimpse of manta rays gliding through the waters below. This scenic trek also includes a visit to a nearby village, adding a cultural highlight to your adventure. Hike in /out: 12/15km, Elevation Gain: 656 ft, Difficulty: Moderate (4-6/10)
After exploring the rugged beauty of Nuku Hiva, unwind with a rejuvenating wellness massage in a serene, open-air setting overlooking the stunning Taiohae Bay. This one-hour full-body treatment blends traditional techniques—acupressure, skin rolling, and a combination of firm and gentle strokes—to restore balance and melt away tension. Enjoy your massage in the privacy of a hotel bungalow, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature.
Explore the wild beauty of Nuku Hiva. Embark on a rewarding 13 km round-trip hike through the lush native forest of Nuku Hiva. This scenic trail hugs the cliffs of Aakapa and Hatiheu, offering breathtaking views over the island’s northeast coast. Along the way, enjoy a unique vantage point for spotting rare Marquesan bird species in their natural habitat. Distance: 13km, Elevation Gain: 2,200 ft, Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (5-7/10)
Journey to the south of Nuku Hiva with a boat ride to the remote and scenic Hakatea Bay. From there, set out on a 2.5-hour hike through lush forest paths, passing ancient archaeological sites and striking basalt cliffs. Your destination: the majestic 350-meter-high Hakaui Waterfall, cascading into a tranquil valley. Hike in /out: 8/9km, Elevation Gain: 1600 ft, Difficulty: Moderate (4-6/10)
Journey across the island to the remote northeast valley of Puamau along a breathtaking route that winds through lush valleys and traditional villages. Visit the remarkable Iipona archaeological site, home to some of the largest ancient tikis in Polynesia, including `Takai` (8 feet tall) and the rare `Makai`i Taua Pepe,` the only known Polynesian tiki depicted lying horizontally. Enjoy a traditional home-cooked lunch with a local host, Marie-Antoinette, followed by a refreshing swim. On the return journey, stop in the tropical forest of Punaei to encounter the mysterious, smiling tiki `Utuka.`
Begin your adventure in the lush Hanaiapa Valley with a scenic two-hour hike along the coast toward the secluded Hanatekua Bay. Walk past dramatic landscapes and arrive at a vast coconut grove bordering a pristine white-sand beach. Enjoy a picnic lunch and time to swim in the crystal-clear waters. If weather and sea conditions allow, return by traditional outrigger canoe for a memorable end to the day. (Difficulty: Moderate)
