The French Polynesian islands of Tahiti are dreamy destinations for those who love amazing experiences at the beaches. However, there is more to Tahiti than just the beaches. Let’s explore the cultural and adventure attractions awaiting you in Haiti.
The Tahitian people have been living on these islands for thousands of years. Over time, they formed cultural practices that were passed down through generations. The Maohi culture was based on gods, great warriors, art, music and dance. Another key spectacle of this culture is sports and local cuisine. Here are a few aspects of this culture that you should explore on your next visit to the island.
Tahiti has many and varied dances. Sometimes men and women danced together, while other times they separated. Discover the celebrated pahu (a double-skin drum) and vivo (nasal flute) as they bellow the traditional dances. There are also the toere and the Ukulele drums.
The Tahiti inbound travel agency can plan an itinerary where you get the chance to learn some of the traditional dance moves. Learn the high-energy pelvic and footwork adorned with colourful regalia, like the pareo. You can also take part in Heiva i Tahiti, a music and dance festival in celebration of the local culture.
You can also get a traditional temporary or permanent tattoo to invoke the spirits of the mighty Maohi warriors when exploring different parts of the island. These tattoos tell a story of bravery, love, peace and respect for the deity.
The Polynesian culture embraces sewing, sculpture and artistic expression in various ways. Its coastal climate boasts various natural fibres, such as pandanus leaves, coconut fibre and palms. The residents use these fibres to create beautiful mats, bags and hats. One of the popular pieces here is tifaifai, a hand-sewn bedspread.
Sculptures are created from local varieties of rosewood called miro and tou. The outstanding craftsmanship of the locals produces amazing pieces that represent mythical beliefs, traditional tools, or miniature pieces of traditional homes and boats. Consider visiting a craftsman as they create these incredible pieces at the local market and get a piece to take home.
Another iconic piece is the local jewellery made from bone, coral and volcanic stone. You cannot complete your Tahitian look without at least one piece that adorns your neck or earlobes. They come in various colours and polishes. You may be lucky to have one custom-made for you.
There is so much adventure and natural beauty to explore in Tahiti beyond the sandy beaches. These islands boast varied landscapes, from hilly outcrops to dark canopy forests, barren lands, waterfalls, farms and everything in between. Nature mingles with culture to reveal the hidden beauty that lies on these Polynesian islands.
Tahiti has an amazing location to hike across the volcanic highlands and mountains. Begin your hike at Mount Moorea and explore the edge of the ancient volcanic funnel. Then climb to the Pass of the Three Coconuts to enjoy panoramic views of the land below.
Come down from the mountain and explore the fragrant pineapple plantations surrounding the tropical forest. Go deeper and enjoy the lush forest trails to the forest of Tahitian chestnuts.
You can also explore the island of Huahine, where you will discover the ancient Marae archaeological sites. This is home to one of the famous traditional temples. Beyond the islands are vanilla plantations and Faie, where you get to feed the blue-eyed eels.
Another amazing location is Taha'a, where you get to enjoy luxurious tropical vegetation. You can also join a family around here and taste the local fruit fresh from the garden. Taha’a also provides points for breathtaking views of the nearby turquoise bay of the magnificent Haamene. Here, you can then visit a local rum distillery and learn about vanilla farming.
Do not leave without visiting the beautiful Bora Bora lagoon. Spend your hot afternoons swimming with tropical fish, small black-tip reef sharks, and stingrays. The area is also a celebrated snorkeler’s paradise with lots of water games.
Tahiti has so much to offer beyond its beautiful beaches. The next time you visit these islands, explore the vast hinterland. Prepare to be mind-blown by its virgin beauty and rich culture, which has been here for thousands of years. We bet you will be planning another vacation here after this cultural adventure, too.
