THE GAMBIER ISLANDS
The Gambier islands are part of one of the 5 archipelagos which compose French Polynesia. It represents a total area 31km², being this way the smallest one. Numerous are the motu (islets) which compose this archipelago and yet only 6 of these countless islands and islets are inhabited. This archipelago is situated in the North West of the South Pacific Ocean.
The Gambier archipelago seems lost among the blue and yet… Its pearls turn heads and make the Gambiers famous. Purple, green, yellow, red… as many reflections than colors that we cannot imagine; each cultured pearl is unique. Almost at the end of the world, the Gambier Islands offer a unique time-space.
Despite the evolution of the techniques, these islands still have their knowledge of vanilla, weaving, and pearls. In the main town, Rikitea, is the Gambiers heritage: cathedral, churches, chapels, and convents…
This end of the world promises experiences like no others and new adventures.
Number of islands : 14 dont 6 îles principales
Name of the islands : Mangareva, Taravai, Akamaru, Aukena, Kamaka, Agakauitai (inhabitée)
Surface area : 31km²
MANGAREVA
Mangareva is well-known for its pearls with thousands of reflections. Its lagoons with a turquoise reflect never equaled. Its flower fields and fruit trees releasing indescribable scents. Mangareva reserves surprise to its visitors.
Duff Mont, its highest point, has imperial paces seen from the sea. From up there, the view of the coral reef and the neighboring islands, Taravai and Aukena, is breathtaking.
Saint-Michel Cathedral, situated in Rikitea, is made of coral rocks then covered with a coral lime coating. This cathedral, still here today, is the testimony of the splendor of art from another time.
Do not miss the ivory white sand beaches of Mangareva.
Rikitea village owns numerous accommodation in local guesthouses promising unforgettable encounters.
Distance from Tahiti to Mangareva : 1 652km
Flight time from Rurutu to :
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- Tahiti : 4h25
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Population : 1 384
Surface area : 15.4km²