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Label Relais et Châteaux

EXCURSIONS

 

Wild, mysterious, luxuriant, secret… Many adjectives that describe Nuku Hiva. Capital of the Marquesas Islands, it is blessed with an exceptional environment. The harmony and relaxed pace of life put a spell on the visitors who venture this far. Explore Nuku Hiva on extraordinary excursions, giving you a glimpse into the Marquesan culture and a chance to discover breathtaking sites and vistas. These unforgettable experiences forge the identity of the island, beautiful and imposing, and make this archipelago the ultimate green tourism destination.

Half-day excursions: morning or afternoon

 

The Village of Taiohae and Koueva

Description
Discover the history and daily life of Taiohae, the capital of Nuku Hiva. This guided 4x4 excursion takes you to the heart of the village with its historical monuments, viewpoints, and cultural sites. You will visit the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral of the Marquesas, built from volcanic stone, and the many tikis and petroglyphs that line the Koueva valley. The tour ends at the Fare Artisanal, where you can meet local artisans and discover their creations: sculptures, tapa, jewelry, and traditional Marquesan objects.

Technical details

  • Duration: 2h30 to 3h

  • Level: Easy

  • Type: Cultural and discovery

  • Included: 4x4 transport, local guide

 

The Hike to Tehaatiki

Description
Embark on a hiking adventure through the wild ridges of Nuku Hiva. This 7 km hike takes you to the Tehaatiki viewpoint, where a breathtaking panorama of Taiohae Bay, the southern coast, and sometimes even manta rays awaits. Along the way, you'll traverse wooded areas inhabited by endemic land birds and may encounter wild goats. A great opportunity to reconnect with Marquesan nature.

Technical details

  • Distance: 7 km round trip

  • Elevation gain: approximately 300 m

  • Duration: 3h

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Included: Guide, water, light snack

 

Full-day excursions

 

The Hatiheu Valley

Description
Discover the majestic Hatiheu Valley, the cradle of the island's cultural history. Accessible by 4x4 via the spectacular north coast road, this excursion immerses you in the archaeological and botanical world of Nuku Hiva: ancient tohua, tikis hidden under lush vegetation, historical villages. You will notably visit the famous sites of Kamuihei and Hikokua. A Marquesan lunch will be served in the village of Hatiheu, in a paradisiacal setting between cliffs and coconut trees.

Technical details

  • Duration: approximately 6h

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Included: 4x4 transport, local guide, traditional lunch

 

The Teivipakeka Trail

Description
Take a mythical path that follows the ridges of Nuku Hiva's caldera. The Teivipakeka hike offers a series of spectacular panoramas over the Hakaui and Anaotako valleys. From the heights, admire the contrast between dense forests, arid plateaus, and dizzying cliffs plunging into the ocean. This immersion in nature is ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Technical details

  • Distance: Approximately 10 km

  • Positive elevation gain: 450 m

  • Duration: 4h to 5h

  • Difficulty: Challenging

  • Included: Guide, sandwich, water

 

Anaho Beach

Description
Set off on an adventure to one of Nuku Hiva's most beautiful beaches. After a 4x4 journey to Hatiheu, a hike of about 1 hour will lead you to Anaho, a gem of the north coast. Its calm lagoon and white sand beach invite relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling. Surrounded by coconut trees and protected by a forming coral barrier, this bay is a haven of peace away from everything.

Technical details

  • Hike: 2 km one way (moderate)

  • Total duration: 6h

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

  • Included: 4x4 transport, guide, lunch, free time at Anaho

 

Peaks and Cliffs Hike

Description
A deep immersion in Nuku Hiva's lush vegetation awaits you with this 12 km hike through the Aakapa and Hatiheu valleys. Cross endemic forests, trails lined with tree ferns, and spectacular viewpoints. This route will appeal to nature lovers, those seeking a challenge, and wild photography enthusiasts.

Technical details

  • Distance: 12 km

  • Elevation gain: 600 m

  • Duration: 5 to 6h

  • Difficulty: Challenging

  • Included: Guide, picnic, transport to the starting point

 

Pine Forest by E-bike

Description: This excursion combines the best of Nuku Hiva into one unforgettable adventure. Start with a 30-minute pickup ride from the village, which will take you to the starting point of your hike from the Toovii plateau, an iconic place in Nuku Hiva known for its majestic landscapes.

You will then explore the magnificent pine forest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The route includes an ascent to the Col that requires a minimum of technical skill due to its rocky terrain.

A sandwich is included to help you regain strength during this day full of discoveries.

Technical details:

  • Distance: 20 to 40 km (depending on your level)

  • Positive elevation gain: 500 m

  • Difficulty: Challenging (due to the rocky ascent to the Col)

Prepare to experience a unique adventure in the heart of Nuku Hiva, between lush nature and breathtaking panoramas!

 

Practical information

 

  • Reservation: no later than the day before by 6:00 PM
  • Minimum required: 2 people (4 for boat trips)
  • Guiding: All excursions are led by a local guide
  • Cancellation: Any cancellation on the same day will be charged (except in case of unfavorable weather)
  • Private activities: Not available – all excursions and transfers are shared