Destination Raivavae : Infos clés & aéroport
730 km southeast of Tahiti, Raivavae was discovered in 1775 by the Spanish navigator Thomas Gayangos, and in the early 19th century supplied sandalwood to European traders. Often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, with its 28 jagged islets that are the nesting place of numerous sea birds, Raivavae, almost unreal, appears to float in its emerald lagoon.
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Practical information
Population : + 905 inhabitants
Surface area : 16 km² (6.3 sq. miles)
Main Village : Anatonu
Minimum flight duration : 1h55
Distance from Tahiti : 730 km
The good reasons to visit
- One of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific: stunning lagoon, lush green hillsides and motu of white sand, including the famous "motu piscine" (“piscine” meaning “pool”).
- A rich culture: tikis, archeological remains, miro wood sculptures, small stitched canoes and pastel-coloured villages.
- A Garden of Eden: temperate climate and fertile soil ideal for fruit cultivation and market gardening.
- An authentic welcome and a wide choice of activities.
Do not miss
- The beautiful beaches of white sand on the "motu".
- The craft center.
- The last great tiki still found on the island, near Mahanatoa.
- The view from the summit of Mount Hiro.
- The archeological sites.
- The caves of Anapoiri and Anapio.
Did you know that
- Raivavae is renowned for its lagoon, considered one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world.
- "Ia oga na" means "hello" and "mauguugu" means "thank you" in the Raivavae language (the Tahitian "r" is replaced by a "g").
- The island's lagoon is up to 4 km wide in places.
- The island was discovered in 1775 by the Spanish navigator Thomas Gayangos, and in the early 19th century supplied sandalwood to European traders.
- Raivavae sandalwood is an endemic species, found nowhere else in the world.
- The "swimming pool motu" is a natural splendor and a must-see place when you go to Raivavae.
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Air Tahiti magazine
Raivavae airport
Raivavae airport is located approximately 10 minutes by car from the main village.
There is no shuttle service, so to get to the village you will need to go by car.
If you have booked tourist accommodation, find out from your hosts whether they can arrange your outward and return transfer.
Services available
- Air Tahiti agency
- Snack bar
- Art and craft exhibition
- Toilets