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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: XPF
- Languages: French, Tahitian, English
- Climate: Tropical
- Timezone: Pacific/Tahiti
- Population: Approximately 12,000
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October).
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities may need a visa or e-visa depending on their country of origin. A valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation are typically required. Visa on arrival is generally not available; travelers should check with French Polynesian consulates before travel.
About Raiatea
Raiatea is a lush, mountainous island in French Polynesia’s Society Islands, often considered the cultural and historical heart of the region. Known as the "Sacred Island," it holds great significance for Polynesian heritage, featuring ancient marae (temples) and archaeological sites. Unlike its more tourist-heavy neighbors, Raiatea offers a tranquil and authentic experience with stunning natural beauty including crystal-clear lagoons, dense rainforests, and rugged peaks. Visitors are drawn to its serene environment, rich culture, and opportunities for adventure such as hiking, snorkeling, and sailing. Raiatea is also a gateway to nearby islands like Tahaa and Bora Bora, making it a strategic base for island hopping. Its blend of cultural depth and natural splendor makes it a compelling destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Top Attractions
1. Taputapuatea Marae – A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Polynesian temple complex is a spiritual and historical landmark. 2. Mount Temehani – The highest peak on Raiatea, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. 3. Faaroa River – The only navigable river in French Polynesia, perfect for boat tours through lush valleys and waterfalls. 4. Raiatea Lagoon – Ideal for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. 5. Uturoa Town – The island’s main town, featuring local markets, shops, and cultural sites.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking through tropical forests, exploring ancient archaeological sites, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, and sailing or kayaking in the calm lagoon waters. Cultural experiences include visiting marae, attending traditional dance performances, and participating in local festivals. Fishing, bird watching, and river tours on the Faaroa River are also popular.
Raiatea Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of French Polynesia
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking through tropical forests, exploring ancient archaeological sites, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, and sailing or kayaking in the calm lagoon waters. Cultural experiences include visiting marae, attending traditional dance performances, and participating in local festivals. Fishing, bird watching, and river tours on the Faaroa River are also popular.
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October). Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, hiking shoes, and sun protection. Respect local customs, especially at sacred sites. The island is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash in XPF is preferred; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Internet access may be limited outside main towns.
Average Tour Price: $65
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $250
27 Available Tour Excursions in Raiatea
On board Blue Lagoon, a luxurious and modern canoe, enjoy its trampoline and comfortable lounges to go on a day trip "Apetahi" around the island of Raiatea. A unique tour off the beaten track: See authentic landscapes and admire majestic dolphin ballets. Stop by Nao Nao’s paradise motu for snorkeling in a preserved coral garden. Visit the Marae de Taputapuatea, a UNESCO-listed site before heading out on an "Amazonian" adventure along the Faaroa River.
Price: $150.11
Duration: 7-8 hours
I am a very open person and like to share with you, I organize excursions à la carte, meeting your needs.
Price: $151.28
Duration: 8 hours
Catch & Cook adventure is a total immersion in the life of a true Polynesian! With Catch & Cook Adventures go on a fishing adventure in search of the most beautiful fish in the waters of Raiatea and Taha'a, save some to cook your meal on a paradise islet. Our team will lead you to the best fishing spots and cook your catch of the day 100% locally with you. Book your Catch & Cook adventure now!
Price: $330.00
Duration: 7 hours
Embark with Catch & Cook Adventures to discover the secrets of Raiatea and Taha'a Lagoon We will meet exotic fish and majestic blackhead sharks in the crystal clear waters of the lagoon. Experience a unique adventure between land and sea with the discovery of pearl farm, vanilla plantation and local rum. A cooler with refreshing drinks water and local juices is available to guests. This tour is also available as a PRIVATE TOUR, you will be the only ones on board the boat for total privacy. Book your Raiatea and Taha'a Lagoon boat adventure now with Catch & Cook Adventures.
Price: $800.00
Duration: 4-8 hours
This activity is unique for fishing lovers; You organize your day as you wish with your captain who will adapt to your level of course and who will know how to best accompany you on this fishing day! This activity is aimed at both enthusiasts and initiates... Beautiful day with lunch included This outing will be punctuated by a snorkeling stop.
Price: $1,221.84
Duration: 7 hours
This cruise aboard our catamaran will give you a great time in idyllic places. Our strong point is that we take very few people on the catamaran and can privatize it in order to have absolute peace of mind. You will have access to kayak paddles and loan of snorkel mask equipment for your Snorkeling. You can enjoy the sunbathing areas for a little nap and sunbathe in complete tranquility.
Price: $5,236.45
Duration: 96 hours
Cruise Special: the best of Raiatea in 3h30! Discover the cultural and craft treasures of Raiatea, meet local producers for an authentic immersion Program (may vary slightly depending on the date): - LTB Fenua: manufacture of virgin coconut oil and other organic products - Pearl farm: secrets of Tahitian pearls - Marae de Taputapuatea: UNESCO-listed site, immerse yourself in Polynesian history - Local production: stops according to the season (honey, fruit, tamanu....) Pick-up: Uturoa ferry terminal Duration: 3h30 - departure 8h30/13h (or according to your stopover) Participants: Mini 4, Maxi 8 The + of this excursion: - Timing optimized for cruise passengers - Meeting with local producers and possible purchases (CB from 20 dollars) - Cultural immersion in small group - 4x4 transport to explore the interior of the island (vehicle designed for the comfort of all) Book your unforgettable stopover now!
Price: $81.46
Duration: 3 hours
Explore the turquoise waters of Raiatea OR Taha'a in an unforgettable way by booking your private tour! Get ready for a thrilling adventure aboard Blue Lagoon, a luxurious and unique canoe with an à la carte day program. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will have the opportunity to discover the secret spots of our lodges, while relaxing on the trampoline. You can stop to swim and snorkel, discovering the rich marine life of these crystal clear waters.
Price: $1,570.94
Duration: 6-7 hours
A memorable jetski excursion around Raiatea. Immerse yourself in the historical stories and legends of this magical island while exploring the charming motus. Admire the splendor of Faaroa Bay, explore the coral garden and enjoy a delicious picnic on a motu, complete with seasonal fruits. A unique experience to discover the nature and cultural wealth of Raiatea. Book your unforgettable adventure today!
Price: $570.19
Duration: 6 hours
Revanui Excursions is an excursion company that offers discovery services of the richness and beauty of Polynesia aboard a locally built, spacious and comfortable boat. Our excursions will be led by a cheerful and enthusiastic guide who will make you dream. On the program, the discovery of the island of Tahaa, immersed in greenery and surrounded by "motu", islets located in the sea filled with coconut trees. We will meet the island's service providers and the creations they offer based on local products such as vanilla, pearls, honey, sugar cane, tamanu, alcohols... A cooler with refreshments (local fruit juices and bottles of water) is available to customers. You can also bring your own drinks and snacks. You will not regret it !
Price: $141.97
Duration: 6-7 hours
Embark on an unforgettable 2-hour jetski adventure with Raiatea Explorer to discover the wonders of Raiatea and Taha'a. Sail the crystal clear waters of Raiatea Lagoon, admire the majestic mountains and explore the breathtaking landscapes. Your first stop will take you to Taha'a, the island of vanilla, where you can explore its crystal clear waters and discover the natural beauty. Join us for an unforgettable experience in the heart of French Polynesia. Book now !
Price: $313.02
Duration: 2 hours
Circuit around the lagoon of Tahaa with five stops, Visit of the coral garden, Visit Pearl Farm, lunch on a Private Motu (island), Lunch feet in the water, coconut SHOW, Visit of the Vanilla Valley. (If you come from a ship to RAIATEA, UTUROA we will pick you up and take you back to the port)
Price: $139.35
Duration: 7 hours
Go on a Vanilla excursion! Discover Taha'a Island on board Blue Lagoon, a modern and comfortable canoe. A day that combines marine adventure and cultural discoveries. Visit a family pearl farm, enjoy rum at Pari Pari rum shop and dive into vanilla culture on a traditional vanilla tour. Not to mention the exceptional snorkelling spot of the Coral Garden with a view of Bora Bora. Join us quickly for this memorable experience! Namely that our boat is the most luxurious you can find to discover Taha'a by the day. Thanks to its large trampoline for sunbathing and comfortable lounges, you will not see time pass.
Price: $150.11
Duration: 7-8 hours
We advise you on the must see on Tahaa and in the lagoon, even when you do not stay long on Raiatea ... Activities according to your interests to enjoy what you like most! And especially at your own pace, ideal for lovers or family ... but in all cases in complete freedom and tranquility!
Price: $686.56
Duration: 4 hours
The Mystery House Raiatea invites you through a guided tour to discover more than 20 strange workshops that will put your senses to the test. Inspired by the mythical “Gravity Hills”, which, due to the absence of a visual horizon, give the illusion of seeing a road going up, when in reality it is going down. Some examples of the workshops presented are: – La Boussole Folle: a magnetic compass that disorients itself! – Foucault’s Pendulum: a pendulum that stops by itself! – The Infinite Arrow: an arrow that always points in the same direction! – The Reverse Slope: water or ping pong ball going up the slope! Our best guide is also the instigator of the project. Passionate about optical games and facts not explained a priori, Gérard will take you on a merry-go-round of illusions and change your point of view forever. With a good-natured mood and a desire to share his vision of bizarre things, Gérard will make you have a great time.
Price: $18.62
Duration: 0 hours
At a time when the sky is adorned with its most beautiful colors, join us for an unforgettable experience. Let yourself be transported by the enchanting beauty of a sunset over Raiatea, a moment when nature expresses itself in all its splendor. Relax with a drink in hand and admire the natural spectacle of the sun setting over the ocean, a living scene that changes with every moment. Whether for a romantic evening or a special moment with family, our tour at the last light of day is an invitation to serenity and contemplation. Experience a sunset like nowhere else, an experience that will remain engraved in memories. Join us for a simply perfect end to the day!
Price: $128.00
Duration: 2 hours
You will discover breathtaking landscapes, color contrasts like you have never seen before, this flight will remain etched forever in your fondest memories, it will remain a highlight of your visit to Polynesia, satisfaction guaranteed. IMPORTANT INFORMATION You are going to make a private flight, this means that we will be two people on board, if you come with more than one it will be each your turn, but you will have the possibility of waiting in our aeroclub with comfort and Wifi access
Price: $69.82
Duration: 0-1 hours
Two hours swimming with our multicolors fishes is unique. Respect the environment and enjoy your underwater pictures. The TAHAA FAMOUS CORAL GARDEN TOUR is a cruise ship's format. ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR with soft drinks,tropical fruits and snorkeling equipment. Since August 1st 2024,we offer a free visit to our beautiful pearl farm in Tahaa. Mauruuru and Manava Thank you and Welcome
Price: $123.35
Duration: 4 hours
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Raiatea’s cuisine blends French and Polynesian influences with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local staples like taro and breadfruit. Signature dishes include poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk), grilled fish, and tropical fruit desserts. Dining customs are relaxed and communal. Noteworthy restaurants include local beachfront eateries in Uturoa offering fresh catch and traditional flavors.
Getting Around
Raiatea is accessible by air via Raiatea Airport, with flights from Tahiti and other islands. Local transportation includes taxis and rental cars, which are the most convenient for exploring the island. Boat tours and ferries connect Raiatea to nearby islands. Costs for taxis can be moderate; renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October). Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, hiking shoes, and sun protection. Respect local customs, especially at sacred sites. The island is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash in XPF is preferred; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Internet access may be limited outside main towns.
Culture & Customs
Raiatea’s culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions with strong respect for ancestors and nature. Social customs emphasize hospitality and respect, especially at marae and during ceremonies. Important festivals include Heiva, a celebration of Polynesian culture with dance and music. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting sacred sites and ask permission before taking photos of locals or ceremonies.
