Above the steady rumble of the Pacific surge, the sharply sculpted mountains of Hiva Oa hide their summits in the mists of rain-filled clouds. The largest and most fertile island in the southern group of the Marquesas, Hiva Oa has deep valleys, lush plateaus and thickly wooded forests. Framed in a theater of mountains with the Bay of Traitors providing safe anchorage, Atuona is a favorite port of call for yachts and copra ships. Sightseeing highlights include Puamau Village, where Gauguin descendents live, and the tiki Takaii, the largest stone tiki in Polynesia.

Language: French

Currency: CFP franc (XPF)