Things to do — Marquesas

The Marquesas are a territory of cultural discovery, hiking and memory. Activities centre around archaeological sites, wild valleys and the pilgrimage to Atuona.

At Hiva Oa, the pilgrimage to Atuona is the flagship experience: visit the graves of Paul Gauguin (died 1903) and Jacques Brel (died 1978) at the Calvaire seaside cemetery, the Paul Gauguin Museum (reproductions, Marquesan life of the painter), the Jacques Brel Space (restored Jojo plane, Marquesan biography of the singer). The excursion to the Puamau valley (1 h 30 by 4x4 from Atuona) reveals the monumental tikis of Iipona — the largest archaeological site in the Marquesas. Allow 4-5 days on Hiva Oa to explore the island in depth.

At Nuku Hiva, key activities include: the Taipivai valley (4x4 or hiking excursion, archaeological sites, Melville's valley), the Hatihu valley (major Kamuihei and Hikokua sites, tikis, petroglyphs), the Vaipo waterfalls (full day excursion: 4x4 + 2-3 h hike in the valley — the highest waterfalls in French Polynesia at 350 m). The ascent of Mont Tekao (1,224 m, 4-5 h walk) offers exceptional panoramas over the island. For diving enthusiasts, several sites around Taiohae allow manta ray and shark observation (open waters, strong currents — advanced level required).

In the other islands (accessible by Aranui cruise or Air Tahiti flights): Ua Pou for the 12 volcanic pillars, Fatu Hiva for the Bay of Virgins (Hanavave) and the Omoa-Hanavave hike (15 km, 5 h, one of Polynesia's most beautiful hikes), Tahuata for bone and wood sculpture (visit of craftsmen's workshops), Ua Huka for wild horses and the Mendaña museum.

The Aranui 5 cruise (12 days in the 6 inhabited islands) is the ultimate signature experience. The ship combines cargo and passengers: you witness goods unloading (trucks, materials, food) while participating in cultural excursions (archaeological sites, craftsmen's workshops, cultural evenings with Marquesan dances). One of the most authentic voyages in the world.

Do not skip Marquesan tattooing — the most respected art in Polynesia. Several Marquesan tattooists (Manuhi on Nuku Hiva, Felix Fii on Hiva Oa) offer traditional tattooing sessions based on the visitor's personal story. A Marquesan tattoo (medium size, on arm or leg) costs €200-500 depending on complexity — a living and unique souvenir.