Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands
By Melinda
What are the Marquesas Islands?
Located in a remote area of already-remote French Polynesia, the Marquesas Islands are comprised of 15 islands and islets, including six inhabited islands. They are majestic to look at: volcanic islands protruding out of the water with peaks as high as 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) above sea level.
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Why are the Marquesas Islands a UNESCO World Heritage site?
The Marquesas Islands qualify as a UNESCO World Heritage site for several reasons. First, the unique and lasting Polynesian civilization and culture that developed in this isolated place is outstanding and significant. The eight valleys within the UNESCO site where they lived “are considered the most remarkable for the density and size of their lithic remains.”
Next is the rich legacy of arts and culture, from legends and stories to music and art, like tikis and tattoos. While most of the original inhabitants have disappeared or been assimilated, these cultural elements link modern Marquesans to their past.
The Marquesas have stunningly beautiful natural volcanic viewpoints and pristine Pacific waters with diverse marine ecosystems. They support “one of the world’s highest fish biomasses,” according to UNESCO, and “exceptional endemism,” making them “one of the last remaining wild marine areas on the planet” harboring “exceptionally well-preserved and irreplaceable marine and terrestrial ecosystems.” There are many endemic and rare species on land and in the sea, as well as some endangered species.
A gorgeous and remote archipelago, the Marquesas Islands are deserving of the UNESCO World Heritage designation for all these qualities.
The UNESCO designation includes seven sites, most of which are mixed ensembles of land and marine areas:
- Eiao and Hatutu islands
- Nuku Hiva island
- Ua Pou island
- Ua Huka (coastal marine area)
- Hiva Oa and Tahuata islands
- Fatu-Uku island
- Fatu Hiva island
What can you expect on a visit to the Marquesas?
The Marquesas Islands are one of the least visited World Heritage sites. Aside from circumnavigating sailors who stop here after crossing the Pacific Ocean, like we did, you’ll find missionaries, French expats, and not many tourists. There are a few small cruise ships which visit some of the islands from Tahiti a few times a month, but not much more.
As a result, the untainted beauty of the Marquesas, on land and sea, is unrivalled. On Nuku Hiva, hike to waterfalls; in Tahuata, swim with the resident dolphin pod and snorkel with giant manta rays. Enjoy gorgeous views from atop dormant volcanoes and in the crystal-clear Pacific water of the bays.
Because there are so few visitors, the locals are warm and welcoming. If you attend church services, stay after to talk to the Marquesans. We were invited to a family home for a feast! After walking to a waterfall on Nuku Hiva, a local family invited us to sample their fresh grown fruit. Try the best pamplemousse – a large citrus fruit – in the South Pacific, maybe the world.
Are the Marquesas Islands worth visiting?
The Marquesas Islands are worth visiting. We loved the friendly people, the delicious fresh fruit, and the authentic culture, which encompasses music, art and dance.
Intrepid travellers would like the Marquesas, which offer adventure in the outdoors, plentiful nature, and history. If you are a city person and need a lot of urban stimulation, this is not for you. The islands are spread out and difficult to get to, and the largest village is a town of 3,000 people.
Be prepared for a long trip to get there, but you will be able to relax in peace once you arrive.
Tips for visiting the Marquesas Islands
The Marquesas Islands are remote and difficult to reach. Once you get to Tahiti, you will need to take another plane to get to just one Marquesas island, either Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa. Do your research beforehand and plan to visit for at least one week, considering how long the trip will be.
The official language of these islands is Marquesan, followed by French. English is not common so try to learn a few key words of Marquesan and French before you visit.
Book accommodations ahead if you are not traveling by ship. There are only a limited number of hotels or small pensions.
Marquesans are very protective and proud of their culture and heritage. If you can time a visit around Matavaa o te Henua Enata, a festival which takes place every four years, do it. Alternatively, find out when the Aranui (a cruise and cargo ship) comes to town and attend one of the public performances they put on for the passengers (everyone is welcome to these).
If you visit Nuku Hiva island, consider taking this full-day guided tour to Vaipō Waterfall.
Where Are the Marquesas Islands?
The Marquesas Islands are isolated, with their own time zone, halfway between Australia and South America. They are located 1,200 km (746 mi) northeast of Tahiti.
A flight from Papeete in Tahiti to Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa takes 3.5 hours, or alternatively, take a 10-day cruise on the Aranui, a 230-passenger hybrid cruise-and-cargo ship. Some luxury cruises stop there as well. Or you can be like us and sail 3800+ miles across the Pacific from Panama.
If you’re not island-hopping on the Aranui or a cruise ship, getting from island to island involves either some limited domestic flights or hiring a private boat to take you.
For more information about the Marquesas Islands, start with Tahiti Tourism’s website.
Have you been to the Marquesas Islands? If so, do you have any additional information or advice about this UNESCO World Heritage site? Please add your comments below!