About The Islands of Tahiti
"There was neither light nor darkness—just an endless void. I was utterly alone, suspended in my liquid atmosphere."
— Ta'aroa, the great creator
The Creation Story
Ta'aroa, the great creator, existed in solitude, unfamiliar with companionship, acceptance, rejection, light, or shadow. Enclosed within an egg called Rūmia, he floated aimlessly through the vast expanse of space.
Bored and yearning for change, Ta'aroa stirred within his shell. With a powerful shake, he cracked it open and emerged into the stillness beyond. Outside, there was only silence and darkness. He was alone in the void.
As Rūmia split, its two halves gave rise to a new order. The upper half ascended, becoming "Up," while the lower half fell away to form "Down." Suddenly, a sense of perspective emerged. The upper shell transformed into the sky and heavens, with tiny cracks letting through pinpricks of light—stars that shimmered in the darkness.
This division brought movement: the flow of air and the rush of wind. The lower shell formed the foundation of the earth, where land, rocks, plants, and springs of water began to emerge, giving shape and substance to the world.
And so it began...
- Inspired by "Ancient Tahiti," by Teuira Henry -
Of Land and Sea
Imagine a constellation of islands floating on the endless expanse of a deep blue ocean—"Te Moana Nui"... Islands that have been a sanctuary for travelers throughout time, from ancient explorers and Western navigators to today's wanderers seeking beauty, serenity, authenticity and adventure.
These islands are a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and timeless inspiration. They have stirred the souls of artists, writers, and adventurers and continue to enchant everyone who steps ashore.
Feel the kiss of the ocean breeze on your skin, the golden warmth of sun-soaked sands beneath your feet, and the delicate fragrance of the iconic "tiare Tahiti" flower wafting through the air.
Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and let paradise embrace you. Your dream escape begins here.
'ia ora na e maeva!
Welcome to The Islands of Tahiti!
General Information
Time Difference
French Polynesia is 10 hours behind GMT (GMT+10.)
Getting to The Islands of Tahiti
Nestled in the southern hemisphere, The Islands of Tahiti offer an unspoiled haven of natural beauty and lively cultural tapestry.
The Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport serves as the main entry point and is the only international airport for this breathtaking destination.
Reaching this paradise is effortless, thanks to a selection of renowned air carriers:
- Air France: Connects Tahiti to the European continent with weekly flights from Paris and Los Angeles.
- Air Tahiti Nui: As the national carrier, Air Tahiti Nui brings the islands' spirit to life from the moment you board. They operate weekly flights connecting Tahiti with Los Angeles, Seattle, Paris, and Auckland.
- Hawaiian Airlines: A weekly flight bridges these cousins of the Pacific.
- United Airlines: Conveniently departs their San Francisco hub to The Islands of Tahiti several times weekly.
- Air Calin: Connects New Caledonia and The Islands of Tahiti.
With so many islands to explore, The Islands of Tahiti can be a complex destination to navigate. For a smooth and unforgettable experience, we highly recommend working with our trusted specialists and partners:
- Te Mana Travels - https://www.temanatravels.com/: Curating adventures for the soul to The Islands of Tahiti. Small groups, solo or couples are all welcome.
- Tahiti Adventures - https://tahitiadventures.com/: Specializing in small groups curated tours and adventures.
- Tahiti by Carl - https://tahitibycarl.com/tahiti-yoga-festival-packages/: Offering customized packages for the ultimate Tahiti experience.
- WeExploredTahiti - https://www.weexploredtahiti.com/: Australia-based agency specializing in small group special interest travel itineraries and calendar event based travel to the Islands of Tahiti. Catering to a worldwide clientele.
Climate & Seasons
In ancient times, our Tupuna (ancestors) lived in harmony with nature, guided by its rhythms to understand the two key seasons of the Polynesian world:
Matari'i i Ni'a (November to April):
The season of abundance, marked by warmer weather, higher humidity, and the arrival of the Pleiades in the night sky. This time brought plentiful resources and celebrated nature's generosity.
Matari'i i Raro (May to October):
The season of dormancy, characterized by cooler, drier months. During this time, resources became scarcer, and communities adapted to the slower cycles of nature with reverence and resilience.
Modern Climate
Today, The Islands of Tahiti enjoy a tropical climate that's ideal for travel any time of the year, with an average temperature of 78°F (25°C):
- From November to April, warmer temperatures and higher humidity bring lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.
- From May to October (October being the transition time), the weather is cooler and drier, perfect for outdoor adventures and exploration.
Entry Requirements
Entry conditions and customs regulations are subject to change without notice.
It is therefore highly recommended to check the latest requirements and conditions at the nearest French Consulate or Embassy or online: https://www.embassy-worldwide.com/country/france/
Customs
The Islands of Tahiti are protected from many insects and pests. It is strictly prohibited to bring in any animals, plants, flowers, fruits when traveling to this untouched part of the world.
For information on customs regulations, please refer to the Tahiti Tourisme website: https://tahititourisme.com/en-us/travel-planner/tahiti-customs-declarations/
Languages
French and Tahitian are the official languages in The Islands of Tahiti. However, English is widely spoken in the most visited areas, with tourism being the main economy in French Polynesia.
Electricity
Electricity is generally 220v. Checking with the property upon check-in will ensure proper use of plugs and adaptors. European plugs are used throughout French Polynesia.
The Essentials
For your time in The Islands of Tahiti, we recommend packing casual, comfortable, and light clothing to embrace the relaxed island vibe.
Footwear
Sandals are perfect for the island lifestyle, keeping you cool and comfortable.
Sun Protection
The sun can be intense, so be sure to bring environmentally safe sun protection. Local pharmacies offer a wide range of eco-conscious options. Don't forget your sunglasses, a hat or baseball cap, and a swim shirt for added sun protection.
Essentials
A beach bag and/or backpack will come in handy for your daily adventures. Reef shoes are a must for exploring coastal areas, and a good mosquito repellent will ensure you stay comfortable during your trip.
To avoid luggage surcharge fees, we suggest keeping your suitcase light and simple—packing only what you need for a carefree island experience.
Health
As a French Overseas Territory, The Islands of Tahiti offer reliable healthcare services for both residents and visitors.
For Travelers Under Medical Treatment:
If you are currently on prescription medication or require medical equipment, we recommend bringing an adequate supply for the duration of your stay.
Currency
The official currency in The Islands of Tahiti is the Pacific Franc (XPF or CFP), which is linked to the Euro at a fixed rate of 1 EUR = 119.332 XPF.
Payment Methods
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are widely accepted in tourist areas across the islands. Banks are generally open on weekdays, and ATMs are available in the main tourist hubs, particularly near banks and post offices. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, as some smaller shops and local artisans may not accept card payments.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available at hotel and resort reception desks, as well as at major banks. You can also exchange currency at a kiosk in the Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport, which operates in accordance with international flight schedules.
Traveling to Remote Islands
If you're visiting the Marquesas, Austral, or Tuamotu islands, be sure to bring enough local currency, as some of the more remote islands do not have banks or ATMs.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary nor expected in The Islands of Tahiti, and there are no formal rules or customs regarding gratuities. It is entirely left at the discretion of each guest.
Since 2007, a service charge has been included in the final bill for hotel and resort stays. This service charge is collected and distributed among the staff at the end of each year as a bonus, rewarding their dedicated service.
WiFi and Connectivity
WiFi is available in many of the popular areas throughout The Islands of Tahiti, though the speed may vary depending on the island or property's network.
For those seeking a more reliable connection while on the go, consider booking the Tahiti WiFi portable device, which can be reserved through their website: https://www.tahitiwifi.com/
If you're traveling with an international plan, be sure to check with your mobile network provider for coverage and rates in The Islands of Tahiti.