Rangiroa

Its first inhabitants were the hermit crabs… Then comes the story of Oio.
According to the legend, he settled in Vahituri, on the East coast, where the great marae of Ra’ipu is located. It was made by his son Tutehoua. The latter had three children : two boys and a girl, and this is how the island was said to be peopled.

Rangiroa was made of a few villages: Tereia, Fenuaora, Otepipi, Tevaro, Avatoru and Tiputa in which several marae were to be found, this is were Polynesian people used to celebrate their social and religious ceremonies.

Afterwards, a cataclysm led to the death of almost all its inhabitants. By the 15th century, the whole population started a war against Kaukura and Anaa. In order to protect themselves from the attacks, the population gathered in the villages of Tivaru, Avatoru and Tiputa.

Thanks to this event, Rangiroa connected with Tahiti, Makatea and Mehetia and this is how the number of its inhabitants considerably increased.

Located about an hour away from the Tiputa port, this motu is prized for its gorgeous natural pools. Take a look at these white and black-tip sharks swimming by the surrounding volcanic rocks…

As beautiful, the bird island shelters a few interesting species. Located in the middle of the lagoon, this place turns out to be a natural aquarium, a not-to-be-missed moment for fauna and flora enthusiasts.

Have you ever wondered how to collect a black pearl? This visit will answer all of your questions and give you the opportunity to buy a stunning souvenir.

This site is one of the most spectacular ones of Polynesia. Hundreds of underwater species wander there, much to our pleasure. Most tourists come to Polynesia yearning for beaches and lagoons. They do not necessarily plan to dive but it would be a shame not to do so here, in Rangiroa. One encounter all sorts of shark species : tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks, reef sharks and even white sharks… Sting/leopard/manta rays peacefully swim beside you. You are also likely to find schools of barracudas, napoleons or surgeonfish and if you are lucky, perhaps will you even get to see a turtle.

Sail away among a luxurious catamaran and discover Rangiroa from another perspective. Go on an adventure along the pink sand beaches and explore famous snorkeling spots.

Paddle and jump into the blue of the lagoon, avoid the coral heads, take a look around and admire this breathtaking landscape from crystal-clear waters. At dawn or during sunset, this is a perfect moment to share with your lover.

Believe it or not but here, in Rangiroa, you can eat whatever you want: fish or red meat !

Chez Lili:
An atypical location, by the wharf, and yummy fresh fish!

Te Mao Rangiroa:
In the middle of a quiet garden, Patrick and Sophie, who both used to live in Paris, will welcome you with a big smile. Dozens of cocktails and Belgium beers, several meal options, sounds like a deal…

Raira Lagon:
In the heart of a guesthouse, in the village of Avatoru, this tiny restaurant is perfect if you want to have a good time. A relaxing place, grilled meat and raw fish with coconut milk, your taste buds will thank you later…

If you want to go round the island, you should definitely rent a car. However, you can also ride a bike or decide to go for a walk. And if you want to make it quick, choose the boat !

First of all, you have to take a plane to Tahiti. As you can imagine, that the airstrips of the atolls cannot accommodate Airbus or any other plane this big… Then, you just have to book a flight from Tahiti to Fakarava via the local airline Air Tahiti. 1h in direct flight, the exact time you need to doze off on the plane…