Discover the Biosphere Reserve in Fakarava

Published on 31 July 2023

Reading time: 3 min.

The UNESCO biosphere reserve in Fakarava is a veritable jewel of the Tuamotu Islands. Its coral reefs are among the best preserved in the world, making it a paradise for divers and nature lovers.

The biosphere reserve extends beyond Fakarava to include some small neighboring islands. Over one thousand species of fish, rays and sharks reside in these protected waters, making it a vast marine sanctuary. Among the rare species found on land and at sea in Fakarava are the hawksbill sea turtle, the Polynesian zebra dove and the coconut crab.

Fakarava, a preserved treasure of French Polynesia

The designation of Fakarava as a bioshpere reserve is a tribute to the commitment of the local authorities and the French government to sustainable tourism and the preservation of the environment. The classification was made as part of UNESCOs Man and the Biosphere program, that aims to find a balance between the conservation of the biodiversity, economic development and the interests and well-being of the local population.

Paddleboarding in the lagoon c Tahiti Tourisme — Coral massifs © Grégory Lecoeur

The atoll of Fakarava, together with the islands of Kauhei and Niau, forms a unique ecosystem, which is a veritable treasure chest of marine flora and fauna. The environment has always been of prime importance to the Polynesian people, and honoring plants, water, animals and the earth is an integral part of their ancestral culture. The management of this remarkable biosphere reserve is a model for the preservation of tropical island regions. Fakarava has succeeded in maintaining the integrity of its fragile ecosystem while continuing to allow visitors access to its natural wonders.

Explore the natural beauty of Fakarava

There is a large choice of activities in the biosphere reserve of Fakarava. Unsurprisingly, with such a preserved and breathtaking variety of marine life, scuba diving is one of the most popular. Divers can swim with over a million species of fish, majestic sea turtles and several species of sharks.

A swim in the Fakarava lagoon ©_Grégoire Le Bacon

Apart from diving, visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the island itself, go swimming and enjoy all kinds of watersports in the superb lagoon. They can even go whale watching during the mating season from july to november. However, the soft white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise lagoon are also the perfect setting for doing nothing at all!

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