Discover The Tuamotu And Gambier Islands

The Tuamotu And Gambier Islands bring together very different experiences: a shared lagoon in the Gambier Archipelago, reefs and water activities on Fakarava and Rangiroa, and traces of phosphate mining on Makatea. You can focus your further research on the islands whose attractions appeal to you most.

Lagoons, reefs, and experiences on the water

The islands of the Gambier Archipelago share a lagoon with clear, turquoise-blue water and coral reefs. The islands’ green mountains provide a striking contrast. On Fakarava, underwater sights take center stage at Tumakohu Pass: gray, blacktip, and whitetip reef sharks, hammerheads, and other sharks are found there, along with numerous fish, including groupers and humphead wrasse. Because of this variety, the pass is called the “Wall of Sharks.”

Scuba diving is the main tourist activity on Fakarava, followed by snorkeling. You can visit atoll beaches, including Grand Bleu, by scooter or bicycle. On Rangiroa, “The Aquarium” is near Tiputa Pass. Its calm, crystal-clear waters, rich in marine life, are suitable for snorkelers of all experience levels. Boat trips on Rangiroa also take you to remote motus, where you can swim and snorkel or enjoy a picnic by the water. The options differ not only in scenery, but also in how you experience the water.

Religious architecture and industrial history

A long building history also shapes the Gambier Islands: between 1840 and 1970, missionaries, supported by island residents who had only recently converted to Christianity, built hundreds of religious structures. These include churches, rectories, monasteries, schools, and watchtowers. Most of these buildings can be visited on Mangareva, Akamaru, Aukena, and Taravai. For a specific visit, it is advisable to check current visiting options. Rikitea is the main village on Mangareva.

Makatea offers a different historical perspective. Its phosphate pits are remnants of mining that exploited the island’s resources for 60 years. Abandoned mines, tunnels, the old harbor, and railway remains can still be seen from this industrial activity. These traces give the island a different focus from the lagoons and reefs found at the other places described here.

Hiking trails, climbing routes, and views

On Mangareva, hiking trails lead into the mountains and offer views of the lagoon and the landscape beyond. Hikes on the Gambier Islands also provide views of the lagoon and surrounding island scenery. Mangareva is also a starting point for boat trips to other islands. Travelers who like to include a range of activities in their plans can find both trails to viewpoints and excursions on the water here.

On Makatea, well-maintained trails run along the limestone cliffs. They are suitable for beginners as well as experienced climbers. Local guides are trained to accompany climbers and ensure their safety. The combination of visible mining remnants and climbing trails brings together historical traces and an active way to experience the landscape on Makatea.

Pearl farms and getting around Manihi

Most pearl farms on Manihi welcome visitors, who can learn how pearls are made. Check with the individual farm for current visiting options. The atoll’s only road runs for several miles along the shore. You can explore Manihi on foot, by bicycle, or by scooter. If you would like to include pearl production and independent exploration in your travel plans, you can take these interests into account when deciding which island to research.

How it fits into the wider destination of French Polynesia

Tahiti offers another landscape within the wider destination of French Polynesia: the island has lush, green hills and black- and white-sand beaches. Along Tahiti’s west coast, coconut palms line the white beaches, which are suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The black-sand beaches on the east coast were formed by past volcanic activity and provide a setting for relaxing and taking photographs.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Tuamotus Islands, Avatoru, Windward Islands, Austral Islands, Îles Sous-Le-Vent, Îles Du Vent and Leeward Islands.

Return to the main destination overview: French Polynesia.