Atuona

Atuona is a picturesque and historically significant settlement located on the island of Hiva Oa in French Polynesia. This remote corner of the Pacific Ocean, known as the final resting place of the great artist Paul Gauguin, attracts travellers with its pristine nature and the unique culture of the Marquesas Islands. You can reach Atuona via domestic flights or sea transport, which in itself becomes an unforgettable adventure.

The primary and fastest way to reach this region is by air. The island's air gateway is Hiva Oa Airport (AUQ), which receives scheduled flights from local airlines, connecting the island with Tahiti and other parts of the archipelago.

Flying over the ocean offers breathtaking views of volcanic peaks and lagoons. The airport is situated on high ground, approximately a 20-minute drive from the centre of Atuona, ensuring stable connectivity for tourists throughout the year.

There is absolutely no railway service in Atuona or anywhere on the island of Hiva Oa. Due to the complex mountainous terrain and the small size of the island, railways were never constructed here.

Travellers accustomed to trains will need to switch to other modes of transport. Movement around the island is carried out exclusively by road or by water.

In Atuona, there is no conventional public transport system with large buses and fixed schedules. Given the settlement's small size and the specific infrastructure of the island, regular bus routes do not operate here.

To move between settlements, locals and tourists often use transfers organised by hotels or arrange trips with private carriers. This is a more flexible and convenient way to reach your destination in the absence of a centralised bus station.

The most convenient way to explore the surroundings of Atuona is by renting a vehicle, preferably an SUV (4x4). The roads on the island can be steep and winding, and many interesting attractions are located in places that are difficult to reach with a standard sedan.

Taxi services and private guides with their own transport are also popular. Travelling by car will allow you to enjoy the scenic views of the Marquesas Islands at your own pace, stopping at observation decks along the way.

When planning a trip to this remote and exotic corner of the Earth, it is worth preparing in advance for the specifics of island life. Here are some useful tips to make your stay in Atuona comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Footwear: Pack light clothing made from natural fabrics, as the climate here is tropical and humid. Be sure to bring comfortable trekking shoes for mountain walks and a raincoat in case of sudden downpours.
2. Transport: Public transport is practically non-existent. The best option for freedom of movement is renting a 4x4, but you should book a car in advance as the fleet on the island is limited.
3. Finances: The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF). ATMs are scarce and may not be working, and cards are not accepted everywhere. It is strongly recommended to carry a sufficient supply of cash.
4. Health: Stock up on repellents: mosquitoes and "nono" sandflies can be very bothersome. Sunscreen with a high protection factor is mandatory, even in cloudy weather.
5. Communication and Internet: Mobile signals and Wi-Fi can be unstable or slow. Download offline maps and necessary documents in advance so as not to depend on the network.
6. Language: The official language is French, but locals also speak the Marquesan language. English is understood in tourist areas, but learning a couple of phrases in French ("Bonjour", "Merci") will be a sign of respect.
7. Operating Hours: Life on the island flows at a leisurely pace. Shops and institutions may close for a lunch break and finish work early in the evening, and many places may be closed on Sundays.
8. Cultural Tip: Visit the Paul Gauguin Cultural Centre and the grave of Jacques Brel — these are iconic places for which many people strive to visit this very town.

Following these simple recommendations will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Marquesas Islands.