The Gambier Islands are nearly 1,000 miles southeast of Tahiti. According to Polynesian mythology, Mangareva, the principal island, was raised from the bottom of the ocean by the demi-god Maui. The heart of the catholic religion in French Polynesia, the Gambier Islands have a unique religious heritage. The inhabitants have conserved a traditional lifestyle and earn their living mostly from the cultivation of pearls and fishing.
Why choose the Gambier Islands?
Mangareva
The principal attractions for visitors to the Gambier Islands are the many pearl farms and the surprising number of churches which date from missionary times. Although there are marae and other remains of the ancient Polynesian civilization in Mangareva, the island is better known for its religious heritage, which dates from the 19th century. They say that faith can move mountains, but in Mangareva it had to shift tons and tons of coral in order to build all the religious constructions. Between 1840 and 1970, the missionaries, assisted by the recently converted islanders, built hundreds of religious edifices, including churches, rectories, convents, schools and watchtowers. Most of them can still be visited on the islands of Mangareva, Akamaru, Aukena and Taravai. Some of them are extremely well conserved, especially Saint Michel’s Cathedral in Rikitea. Built from blocks of coral in 1848, it is the biggest and oldest religious monument in The Islands of Tahiti, and boasts a magnificent altar incrusted with pearls and mother of pearl nacre.
Not to be missed
What to do in the Gambier Islands
The Gambier Islands are completely different from the rest of French Polynesia, particularly becuase of the incredible number of religious monuments, which bear witness to the arrival of catholicism in French Polynesia. The most important of these is Saint Michel’s Cathedral in the main village of Rikitea on the island of Mangareva.
You’ll also enjoy
Activities in the Gambier Islands
The lagoon shared by all the islands in the archipelago is probably the most beautiful in French Polynesia. A transparent, turquoise and blue sea, peppered with coral outcrops, contrasts with the lush green mountains on the islands. Hiking is the ideal way to appreciate the magnificent views over this unique scenery.
The most beautiful sites in the Gambier Islands
At more than 1,600 kilometers from Tahiti, the Gambier Islands are a unique destination in The Islands of Tahiti. Far off the beaten track, these volcanic islands all share the same magnificent lagoon. Idyllic motu and some of the most beautiful churches in French Polynesia are just some of the sites to see.
Transport
Getting there and getting around
Air Tahiti flies to the Gambier Islands twice a week. The flight takes 3 hours 40 minutes and arrives on a motu, 40 minutes by boat from the main village of Rikitea. There is also a passenger carrying cargo vessel which visits the Gambier Islands each month.
Be inspired
Experiences
Visitors to the Gambier Islands are struck by the warmth and hospitality of the islanders. These isolated islands are filled with natural and cultural treasures and the local population will be delighted to share them with you. It is a land where time goes by at a slower pace and the essential things in life are accorded their true value.
Vacation packages
Book your trip
Take a look at our selection of vacation offers. Discover French Polynesia, its inhabitants and their unique and enviable way of life. And explore the natural untamed beauty of these idyllic islands.
Plan the trip of your dreams
3 good reasons to book a travel agent
Certified Tahiti Specialist
has in-depth knowledge of the destination, enabling us to offer you unique activities and experiences.
Your customized agent
to suit your preferences and budget.
Your agent assists you
throughout your stay to make every moment of your trip a memorable one.
Australia
Belgique
Brasil
Canada (EN)
Canada (FR)
Chile
Deutschland
España
France
Italia
Mexico
Polynésie française
New Zealand
Schweizerisch (DE)
Suisse (FR)
United Kingdom
United States
한국
中国
日本