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Islands Adventures
Mataiva
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Mataiva is a small marvel located in the extreme northwest of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Nine hoa (channels) line the coral reef, hence the origin of the name of the atoll (Mataiva means “9 eyes”). Its reticulated lagoon is completely unique in Polynesia. A magnificent view from above or from a boat, it is separated into 70 basins about 8 meters deep that offer dazzling gradations of blue and green. Fishermen will be delighted while immersing themselves in their passion while others enjoy the tranquility of the vast expanses of white sand that border the crystalline waters all around the island.
Mataiva is blessed with abundant deposits of phosphate which have never been exploited according to the will of the people. Henceforth, it will consecrate itself to fishing, copra farming and tourism with a few family pensions renowned for their authentic welcomes. The village of Pahua is peacefully located on two motus separated by a pass but connected by a bridge; depending on the tides, sand is more or less abundant. Like Tikehau nearby, Mataiva administratively depends on the commune of Rangiroa. The inhabitants of these three islands speak mihiroa, a language similar to Tahitian which distinguishes itself from the other dialects normally spoken by the Paumotu (inhabitants of the Tuamotu Islands). They recount the history of their ancestors in places marked by legends such as: the rock and the tortoise, the Papiro archaeological site or even the important “pito” of Mataiva. Other curiosities such as “a ghost boat”, a “bird island”, etc. await you there and will make your stay unforgettable.
Photo gallery
Districts :
Pahua.Population :
227 inhabitants.Surface area :
25 sq km.Do not miss :
- Papiro marae (archeological site).
- Bird Island.
- Turtle Rock (Ofai Tau Noa).
- The hoa (chanel) and the deserted white sand beaches.
Things to do :
- Marine activities and excursions : visit of the different sites with a picnic (Bird Island, Mataiva's Belly Button and the fish parks), snorkelling.
- Land based activities : hiking or bicycle tour (rented), village visit, car tour (the track runs most of the way round the island).
Practical information :
- Banks : no.
- Post Office : yes Several public call boxes.
- Shops : yes, but not many.
- Restaurants : There are no restaurants on Mataiva. The only place where you can get a meal is in a family lodge. We recommend to book half board at your lodge (breakfast and dinner).
- Medical care : yes.
Flight schedule :
AIR TAHITI time-table and fares
Our accommodations in Mataiva :
Our suggested single island packages
Package 3 night(s) from 369 Euros per person *
Including flights Tahiti / Mataiva / Tahiti, transfers airport/pension/airport, 3 nights in air conditioned garden bungalow with half board and VAT. Validity from January, 1 to December, 2010.
Rates per person, based on a double occupancy (2 persons per room). Packages and list of accommodation subject to change without notice. VAT and RPT taxes are included. Stay taxes are not included and are to be paid directly to the lodges and hotels. All our packages and island combos can be modified to suit individual needs and personal interests, as well as budget and schedule.(provided the domestic flight schedule as well as aircraft availability and accommodations allow it). Rates available only for Internet sales, for passengers located outside French Polynesia.
