Discover the volcanic island of Ua Huka

Ua Huka, the island of horses. A world apart from Tahiti and Bora Bora, Ua Huka is a small volcanic island deep in the heart of the rugged Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. Situated between Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou and Hiva Oa, about 1,400 km to the northeast of Tahiti, Ua Huka is the fourth largest of the islands in the archipelago. A preserved destination, it is a land with an authentic history, a unique biodiversity and a landscape that is simply breathtaking.
With two volcanoes, deep lush-green valleys and mountain plateaus, it is home to numerous endemic birds, such as the beautiful Pihiti (the Marquesan hummingbird), as well as herds of wild horses. In Ua Huka you can visit the Papuakeikaha Arboretum, which houses the largest collection of citrus fruit trees in the world. You can also explore Ua Huka’s numerous archeological remains and museums where you’ll learn about the island’s eventful past.

Ua Huka, an island in the Marquesas© Grégoire Le Bacon

There are two sides to Ua Huka; one is a rich, luxuriant green, the other an arid desert-like landscape. The latter is home to most of the islands wild horses and goats, while the unique endemic birdlife prefers the lush green of the valleys.

Ua Huka is also home to the Papuakeikaha Arboretum which has an unrivalled collection of more than a thousand species of citrus fruit trees from all over the world. Horseback riding, hiking, and camping are very popular outdoor activities in Ua Huka.

There are also several museums to visit on the island: Te Tumu museum, Hokatu museum and the museum of the sea. Enjoy your stay!

Museums in Ua Huka

Baie de Hane à Ua Huka © Philippe Bacchet

Suggested itinerary

Three days in Ua Huka

Desert-like plateaus where wild horses gallop and goats graze, a preserved natural setting, a large rocky motu… Ua Huka is a surprising and authentic island where you feel at one with nature. To help you discover this special corner of French Polynesia, here are some suggestions for a three-day break.

Discover

Get a breath of healthy sea air on a horseback ride along the black pebble beach in Hane Bay.

Other beaches also have picnic areas where you can relax and take in the magnificent views.

Ua Huka from the sky © Grégoire Le Bacon

Ua Huka is an island best discovered in an eco-friendly way: on horseback, by bike, or on foot. There are many signposted trails that take you through the untamed and preserved countryside. And whether you decide to go for a short stroll or a long hike, you’re sure to encounter views that will leave you speechless.

Panoramic view of Ua Huka © Tahiti Tourisme

Ua Huka is rich in archeological remains. Visitors can discover petroglyphs, Marquesan temples and the vestiges of ancient villages, all of which bear witness to the eventful history of the island and the importance of Marquesan culture. The islanders are delighted to share their knowledge of Marquesan culture and traditions with visitors. Various festivities and cultural events are staged in Ua Huka throughout the year, and visitors are also welcome to these joyous celebrations of music, dance, colorful costumes and feasting. They offer a unique insight into a unique culture, so don’t hesitate to attend.

More experiences

Ancient tools on display at the Ua Huka Museum © Tahiti Tourisme

Culture

The Museums of Ua Huka

Discover

More experiences

Latest offers

Take a look at our vacation offers which will help you discover the preserved natural environment and unparallelled beauty of the islands, together with the enviable lifestyle of the islanders of French Polynesia.

All the vacation packages

View of the Ua Huka mountains © Grégoire Le Bacon

Where to stay in Ua Huka

There is a choice of accommodations in Ua Huka to suit every budget. Mostly small and friendly family-run businesses, known as Tahitian Guesthouses, which also have restaurant facilities. It is best to reserve your accommodations in advance.
Ua Huka has a few restaurants where you can eat typical Polynesian food and the locals will be delighted to give you their recommendations for the best tables and the best dishes to try.

Accommodations in Ua huka

Getting there and getting around

A 4h flight from Tahiti-Faa’a airport takes you directly to Ua Huka. Flights from other Marquesas islands take about 25 minutes. There are also several inter-island ferries.
The airport is some distance from the main villages of Vaipaee, Hane and Hokatu and there is no shuttle service to take you there. So you should confirm your arrival and departure times with your accommodations and they will arrange transport for you.
On the island, the best way to get around is on foot, by bike or by taxi.