Maupiti

In 1722, while he thought he was in the middle of the Tongan Islands, Jacob Roggeveen discovered Maupiti and Bora Bora during one of his expedition, 50 years before Tahiti was discovered. However its remoteness and its lagoon deemed difficult to access have protected it from the European influx.

It was not until July 1769 that James Cook went to the edge of the island. Tupaia, the man with him, knows the island well and will help him locate its geographical location and map Polynesia.

Preserved from outside influences thanks to its geographical isolation, it is nowadays one of the few islands that refuses to succumb to mass tourism. Considered as a true microcosm, this small paradise lost in the heart of the ocean embodies the image of Polynesia.

Also, while visitors are more and more excited to discover Maupiti, locals have been keen to preserve the charm, authenticity and prosperity of yesteryear and have been strongly opposed to the establishment of international hotel structures. Here, we like to say that Maupiti looks like Bora Bora fifty years ago.

Located 315km northwest of Tahiti, it is the smallest inhabited island of the Leeward Islands. With an area of ​​only 13.5 km², it easy to walk around it.

Anchored in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Polynesia, the marae is a sacred place that arouses everyone’s curiosity, captivates and impresses. Located on the beach, the Vaiahu marae is all the more important as it is considered a true national monument. Nine kings were enthroned: Hamaiterai of Rurutu, Mateata of Rimatara, Tamatea of ​​Raivavae, Te Piurairai of Rapa, Hama of Atiu, Mahamama of Manitia, Maruano de Maaroaro, Marietoa of Hamoa, Terihoriho de Vaihi.
Long ago, the king reigned from a stone which served as a seat. Whoever refused to obey him would be executed. A flat stone, located near the lagoon, was used for theses sacrifices.

Some archaeological remains are still visible on the island, like the famous Haranae petroglyphs. These include two crabs and two turtles. Remember to ask your way to the locals as the site can be hard to find.

The stone is an essential symbol in maohi culture. This one is no exception. The drum stone, as we call it, was used to identify schools of fish. The inhabitants struck this stone with a faniu (part of the coconut palms located near the trunk) in order to frighten the seabirds. Frightened, they fled to the open sea and gathered above schools of fish. This technique was somewhat very basic but ingenious.

Over the years, scuba diving has gradually become popular, to the point that a center has settled in Maupiti. Explore the coral reefs and the other wonders of the ocean. Down there, you will have the opportunity to swim among sharks and Manta rays.
If you’d rather simply wear a mask and snorkel, opt for a snorkeling session. You will have the opportunity to see underwater species such as surgeons, eagle ray, jacks, cleaner wrasses, goatfishes and stingrays.

Located on the beach, the Tarona snack-bar is undoubtedly one of the best on the island. Listen to the sound of the waves and enjoy a succulent raw fish with coconut milk while watching the lagoon. Can you picture yourself there?

As you can imagine, with its 13,5km surface, the island can easily be crossed from one end to the other on foot. Surely, you will not need more than 2:30hrs to go around Maupiti. To make this adventure, make small and regular breaks at different points of view, on archaeological sites, at the foot of red cliffs, on a beach, at the snack bar or in a souvenir shop.

At the turn of an alley, during your circle island tour, you might have a chance stumble upon the Sea Palace. Recognizable among thousands, this building is exclusively made of coral and shells. The house master, Ah-Ky, is a colorful character who was successful in the 80s as a singer-songwriter. For about 8 euros, you can access the site, have a chat with him and leave with a charming braided hat made of coconut leaves.

You won’t find any room service in Maupiti. However, as soon as you set foot under the table, you will be seduced by the freshness of the fish, the exotic flavors of local cuisine, the variety of meals and the size of the homemade portions. We recommend you select the full board or half board formula if you have planned some excursions that include lunch. Gratin of fei, tuna carpaccio, raw fish with coconut milk, banana cake… Are you hungry yet?

Otherwise, you can find on the atoll some small convenience stores but it would be a shame to miss out on culinary discoveries.

If you stay on the main island, you will have no problem walking. You can even visit the island, you won’t get lost … If you don’t feel like walking, borrow a bicycle from your accommodation or rent one on the island.

On the other hand, if your accommodation is on n islet, you can use your guesthouse’s kayak (it’s a bit more complicated to sail on a turtle’s back …). You will have to leave it a few hours on the beach if you want to visit the main island.

First of all, you have to take an international flight to Tahiti. From there, you can book a Papeete-Maupiti flight via Air Tahiti, the local airline company. With a direct flight, it won’t take you more than 50min and 1:30hr at most with a stopover. The ticket is around 35,000 xpf, which is roughly 300 euros.

At the moment, flights from the Tahiti-Faa’a airport are planned on Monday / Tuesday / Wednesday / Friday / Sunday but things get more complicated when it comes to inter-island circuits. These are limited to one or two flights per week for the most part.

However, if you like hiking, diving, snorkeling, and photography, this place is for you. However, remember to book your tickets in advance because it is one of the most popular destinations and the availabilities are limited.

Since 2015, it is also possible to berth in sailboat. Don’t forget to check the weather conditions before taking off.