Nuku Hiva
French Polynesia · Marquesas Islands · 20 m
Description
Nuku Hiva is the largest of the Marquesas Islands, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscape of steep green valleys, towering cliffs, and deeply sheltered bays. The island is known for the 350-meter Vaipo Waterfall in Hakaui Valley, ancient archaeological sites featuring tiki, paepae platforms, and ceremonial grounds, as well as expansive high plateaus where semi-wild horses roam. In Taipivai and Hatiheu, numerous sacred and ceremonial sites reveal the richness of Marquesan culture and history. Nuku Hiva also inspired Herman Melville’s Typee and offers a striking encounter with the natural and cultural heritage of the Marquesas, among French Polynesia’s most spectacular island destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 6 days (optimal 4 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Vaipo Waterfall hike (Hakaui Valley)
- Taipivai & Hatiheu archaeological sites
- Taiohae Bay
- Hiva Oa day trip(Day trip)
- Horseback riding across the plateaus
- Wild horse pastures
- Taiohae Cathedral
- Kamuihei, Teiipoka & Tiki Tohua archaeological sites
- Tohua Koueva
- Mount Muake hike
- Mount Tapioi viewpoint
- Anaho Bay
- Hatiheu Bay
- Taiohae coastal viewpoints
- Nuku Hiva 4x4 island tour
- Hakaui Valley boat excursion
- Nuku Hiva hiking trails
- Nuku Hiva wild horses
- Tiki sculptures of Hatiheu
Getting there
- Airports:
- NHV
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry