Tahiti Vacation Packages and Tours

Overview

The first port of call in French Polynesia will possibly be the island of Tahiti which contains the only International airport. Although you may be just connecting to one of the outer islands, Tahiti definitely has its attractions and allure. It is the largest island and was formed from volcanic activity which explains the terrain of the island. This beautiful island is surrounded by coral reefs, black sand beaches, lush rainforests, deep valleys, high waterfalls, clear streams and rivers, all to be experienced on a Tahiti vacation. The interior is very sparsely populated and most of the population lives in or near the capital, Papeete, the economic, cultural and political centre. 70 percent of the population here is indigenous. 

The island of Tahiti which is shaped like figure 8 consists of two distinct parts, Tahiti Nui, by far the larger part and Tahiti It. Tahiti is approximately 45 kilometres/28 miles in length at its widest point. The highest mountain is Mount Orohena at 2240 metres/7350 feet in height. There are 3 extinct volcanoes on the island.

For shopping enthusiasts, consider the following local “buys” – wood carvings, wooden drums, quilts, sculptures, mats woven from coconut and local artists’ paintings. Of course, one of the major offerings here is Tahitian Black Pearls which actually come in an array of colours. One can visit any of the pearl farms on the island.

For the more active, Tahiti offers many water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, horseback riding and deep sea fishing. There are many world-class diving sites on the island with its clear waters in which there is a plethora of tropical fish and even mantra rays to view. One unusual attraction is the ability to watch reef sharks being fed up close.