Nuku Hiva is the largest of the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia, an overseas country of France in the Pacific Ocean.
Its name can be translated as “Majestic Island”. Indeed, the appearance of the island justifies its name, since the basis of the island is two old volcanoes, among which a plateau has formed. The most mysterious attraction of the entire island is the town of Temehea Tohua. It became famous among tourists thanks to its amazing statues, which have disproportionate torsos and elongated heads.The ancient statues of Nuku Hiva are in surprisingly excellent condition considering they were likely created around the 11th century.
Now the island of Nuku Hiva is visited mainly by tourists as part of sea cruises, combining exploration of the island with other trips.
Access : Coordinates: -8.866667, -140.133333 /
Highlights :
- The largest settlement and administrative center of the Marquesas is Taiohae at the foot of the 864 meter high Mont Muake.
- Nuku Hiva has been visited by many artists, including writers, who have mentioned their experiences on this island.
- Top sights in Nuku Hiva : About 15 kilometers southwest of Taiohae is the Hakaui Valley with several house and ceremonial platforms and the 350 meter high Ahuii Waterfall – also called Vaipo Waterfall. / In the north, near Hatiheu Bay, the favorite place of the writer Robert Louis Stevenson , a statue of the Virgin Mary stands on a 300 meter high, steep basalt cone above the bay.
Go next : Hiva Oa , the largest island of the southeastern Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia, central South Pacific.
