French Polynesia 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring French Polynesia

Day 1: Arrival at Papeete, Tahiti

  • Arrive at Faa’a International Airport (PPT), Tahiti.
  • Visit the bustling local market of Marche de Papeete for authentic Polynesian goods and food.
  • Explore the Robert Wan Pearl Museum to learn about this significant aspect of Polynesian culture.
  • Evening: Take a sunset cruise around Tahiti’s lagoon.

Day 2: Exploring Tahiti & Moorea

  • Morning: Ferry ride from Papeete to Moorea (approx. 1 hour).
  • Visit the Belvedere Lookout for breathtaking views of Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.
  • Optional activities: snorkeling, shark feeding, or a 4x4 safari tour.
  • Return to Tahiti in the evening.

Day 3: Bora Boverview

  • Ferry from Papeete to Bora Bora (approx. 2 hours).
  • Check into your overwater bungalow and explore the island’s lagoon by kayak or paddleboard.
  • Visit Matira Beach, the only public beach on Bora Bora.
  • Optional activities: scuba diving, jet-skiing, or a lagoon tour.

Day 4: Exploring More of Bora Bora

  • Visit the sacred Motu Tapuitia by boat and learn about Polynesian mythology.
  • Snorkel with rays and sharks at Anau Bay.
  • Optional activities: visit a local pearl farm or take a 4x4 tour around the island.

Day 5: Raiatea & Tahaa

  • Ferry from Bora Bora to Raiatea (approx. 1 hour) and then by boat to nearby Tahaa (approx. 30 minutes).
  • Visit the Marae Taputapuātea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Explore Vanille de Taha’a, a vanilla plantation.
  • Relax on one of Tahaa’s beautiful beaches.

Day 6: Huahine

  • Ferry from Tahaa to Huahine (approx. 2 hours).
  • Visit the ancient Marae of Faie and Marae Mahaea.
  • Explore the island’s lagoon by kayak or paddleboard.
  • Relax on one of Huahine’s beautiful beaches.

Day 7: Return to Papeete, Farewell

  • Ferry from Huahine to Raiatea (approx. 2 hours), then flight back to Papeete (depending on your departure time).
  • Last-minute shopping at the local market or souvenir shops.
  • Farewell dinner at a traditional Polynesian restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • The local currency is the CFP Franc (XPF), but most places accept US dollars and credit cards.
  • Tipping is not customary but appreciated.
  • Visa is not required for stays under 90 days for citizens of many countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries.
  • The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is drier and cooler.

Transportation:

  • Inter-island flights are available but can be expensive. Ferry services are more affordable but take longer.