Custom travel to French Polynesia

French Polynesia is one of the world's most legendary paradises — 118 islands scattered across 5.5 million km² of Pacific Ocean (equivalent to Europe), 5 archipelagos (Society, Tuamotu, Marquesas, Austral, Gambier), 280,000 inhabitants. Bora Bora and its turquoise lagoon, considered the world's most beautiful by James Michener. Eden-like Moorea, Tahiti and its lively market. Tuamotu and Fakarava (UNESCO Biosphere, diving among gray sharks). Marquesas, wild lands where Gauguin and Brel lived and rest. Mahohi culture (Polynesian) — ori tahiti dances, traditional tattoos, vahinés and tané, Hina and Maui myths. The quintessential honeymoon destination, but it offers much more to those who take time: inter-island cruise, humpback whale diving, hikes in Hiva Oa valleys.

Highlights

  • Bora Bora: world's most beautiful lagoon and overwater bungalows
  • Moorea: cathedral mountains and iconic Temae Beach
  • Tahiti: Papeete market and Mahohi culture
  • Fakarava and Tuamotu: diving with gray sharks (UNESCO)
  • Marquesas Islands: lands of Gauguin and Brel
  • Humpback whales in Rurutu (Austral, August-October)

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for a French Polynesia trip?

May-October (dry season) is ideal — pleasant climate (24-28 °C), little rain, clear water. November-April (wet season) is hotter and humid but cheaper. For Rurutu whales: August-October only.

How long for a Polynesia trip?

Minimum 12 days for Tahiti + Moorea + Bora Bora (given the 12 h time difference, 14 days recommended). 14-16 days to add Fakarava or Tahaa. 16+ for Marquesas or Austral.

What budget?

As a guideline, €5,800-€8,000 per person for 12-14 days in comfort, excluding flights. For a premium honeymoon with Bora Bora overwater: €9,500-€14,000. Exclusive (Brando, Four Seasons): €18,000-€30,000. Paris-Tahiti flights: €1,800-€3,000.

Do I need a visa?

No for French citizens — Polynesia is a French overseas territory (Overseas Country). ID card or passport sufficient. For foreigners: visa depending on nationality.

How to get between the islands?

Air Tahiti domestic flights essential (47 destinations, Tahiti-Bora Bora 50 min, Tahiti-Fakarava 1 h 30, Tahiti-Marquesas 3 h 30). Ferry Tahiti-Moorea (30 min, scenic). Aranui 5 cruise (Marquesas, 12 days) or Paul Gauguin (Society-Tuamotu).

Should I choose overwater or beach bungalow?

Overwater is the iconic experience — direct lagoon access, total intimacy, panoramic view. But expensive (€1,500-€3,000/night in season). Beach bungalow: 50-70% cheaper, direct sand access, but without the aquatic magic. My advice: 2-3 overwater nights + rest in beach or garden bungalow.

Bora Bora or Moorea: which to choose?

Ideally both! Moorea for dramatic landscapes (cathedral mountains), more authentic and affordable. Bora Bora for overwater luxury and legendary lagoon. Advice: 3 nights Moorea + 5-6 nights Bora Bora for complete experience.

How to swim with whales in Rurutu?

Only August-October (humpback whale migration from Antarctica). Very strict regulation: maximum 10 per group, minimum distance, limited duration, certified guide supervision. Tahiti-Rurutu flight (1 h 30), family pension on-site.

How to dive in Fakarava?

Intermediate+ level required (open water + 30-50 dives) due to strong currents in passes. Dive centers in Tetamanu (south, gray sharks) and Rotoava (north). 2 dives/day. Peak gray shark concentration: June (reproduction).

Should I plan for tips?

Not mandatory (Polynesian culture doesn't value tipping). But 5-10% appreciated for exceptional service in resort hotels.