Fakarava, French Polynesia

Fakarava is an atoll in the west of the Tuamotu group in French Polynesia. It is the second largest of the Tuamotu atolls. The nearest land is Toau Atoll, which lies 14 Km to the northwest. The atoll is rectangular in shape and has a wide and deep lagoon with two passes. The main pass to enter the lagoon, located in its northeastern end, is known as Passe Garuae and it is the largest pass in French Polynesia; the southern pass is called Tumakohua. The island's main village is called Rotoava.

Fakarava's immense lagoon has several black pearl farms, stunning white sand beaches and is dotted with small islands, homes to many breeds of nesting birds. The passes provide excellent conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Things to See and Do

* Guided island tour
* Hiking
* Water sports
* black pearl farm tour
* Snorkeling & Diving

Cruise Season - Jan - Dec
Currency - CFP franc (XPF)
Language - French, Tahitian
Land Area - 1,112 km²
Population - 300 approx
Electricity - 2 angled flat pins and 1 round pin centred below Australian style
Time - GMT minus ten hours
International Country Telephone Code - + 689

Port Location - The port is located at the main village of Rotoava.

Transport Links - There is a small domestic airfield located on Fakarava. Air Tahiti and Air Oceania offer flights from Papeete three times per week, which take approximately an hour and a half.

Two cruise ships/luxury liners currently ply the islands: the Paul Gauguin, which does a regular 7-day trip around the Societies, with occasional trips out to the Tuamotus, Marquesas and Cook Islands; and the Tahitian Princess which does similar itineraries.