Page 22 - DreamScapes Magazine | Winter 2024/2025

EMBRACE THE MANA
You may frequently hear the word
“mana” when on the islands. It’s what
locals call the supernatural force that
permeates the universe and that
anyone or anything can have.
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DREAMSCAPES WINTER 2024/2025
Marquesas Islands: A Dozen Reasons to Go
Appearing like a dozen dollops of jagged, earthy green
mass ascending from the middle of the Pacific Ocean lies
the stretch of the Marquesas Islands. This archipelago of
12 volcanic islands, of which six are inhabited, is one of
the most remote in the world. The islands are 1,500
kilometres northeast of Tahiti and a world away from
anyplace else. Tahiti provides the main gateway to this
cluster of islands, allowing them to maintain their
authentic, secluded vibe. Its Polynesian name is Te Henua
Enata, the Land of Men. These islands surely left an
impression on one group of men—Crosby, Stills and
Nash, whose song “Southern Cross” highlights the Mar-
quesas. This past summer, it received more recognition
and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights
include its diverse flora, marine life, and bird species,
plus being virtually free from human exploitation, and its
significant archaeological sites.
Nuku Hiva: Second Nature
Start your exploration of this volcanic archipelago on
Nuku Hiva, renowned as the largest of the Marquesas
Islands. Its sheer beauty reveals itself with dramatic rocky
spires that plunge straight into the ocean in all shades of
emerald. An adventurer’s playground—go by foot, horse or
four-wheel-drive. Well-known for its waterfalls, it has one
of the highest in French Polynesia: Vaipo Waterfall. Sea-
soned hikers need to book a boat and guide. Trek beyond a
coastal village and then nestled deep in the rainforest at
Hakaui Valley you’ll come to a clearing and your reward.
For whale lovers, book a day at sea to observe large pods
during migration season (July to November). Every year,
the humpbacks make their way from Antarctica to these
warmer waters to mate and give birth.
Hiva Oa: Garden of Eden
The second largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, Hiva
Oa is as abundant in its natural beauty as it is for its artistic
offerings. Known as the “Garden of the Islands,” it’s comple-
mented by the warm and generous spirit of its people.
At the foot of Mt. Temetiu, the island’s highest peak,
you can visit the main village of Atuona. It houses the
residence and resting place of French artist Paul Gauguin,
who called the island home. Then head to the self-titled
cultural centre that houses a significant collection of the
artist’s paintings. If swimming with hammerhead sharks
is on your list, Marquises Diving will suit you up. If horse-
back is more your speed, a guide can lead you through
trails alongside mountain ridges. For speed with a side of
culture, take a four-wheel-drive tour to the main cultural
sites. Start with a visit to the largest tiki statues in French
Polynesia (legend says they continue to watch over the
island). Stop at Lipona, one of the most important archae-
ological sites in the Marquesas. Cap off your visit to the
ceremonial complex, Upeke, and take in a traditional
dance performance.
DS
TRAVEL PLANNER
To start your trip planning to The Islands of Tahiti, visit
TahitiTourisme.ca
PHOTOS: © GRÉGOIRE LE BACON