7 Authentic And Sustainable Experiences To Enjoy in The Islands Of Tahiti / By Katrina Holden

The Islands of Tahiti are blessed with an abundance of marine life and some of the world’s most thriving coral gardens. It is also home to the world’s largest marine sanctuary since 2002.

A number of concerted sustainability initiatives are in place to protect the fragile eco system of the Pacific Ocean nation. The country aims to become a leading destination for ‘slow tourism’.

Tahiti Tourisme recently released a guide and framework titled, Towards Inclusive & Sustainable Tourism. It outlines some of the practises and projects taking place in the region to preserve the pristine beauty for which it is renowned.

As a visitor to The Islands of Tahiti, here are some of the immersive, authentic and sustainable experiences you can explore with a number of luxury operators in the region.

Ethical animal encounters

Swim with humpback whales, dolphins, sharks, rays and all of the amazing marine wildlife on the island of Moorea on a private boat tour with Moorea Ocean Adventures. The tour company offers customised private boat tours led by their team composed of experimented naturalist guides and boat captains.

The staff is managed by Marine Biologist, Matthieu Petit and Waterman, Trevor Orth. Escape the larger, commercial tours and join one of the Moorea private boat tours that are suitable for up to six guests.
Note: Feeding manta rays and sharks are not allowed in French Polynesia

Visit an eco-station and take a Green Tour

The ultra-luxury resort The Brando, previously visited by celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, is located on its private island and was discovered by the late Marlon Brando. The actor sought to preserve this little slice of paradise by not only protecting the land but also creating a research station and an eco-resort.

The Brando is nearing its goal of becoming fully carbon neutral and self-sustainable. The villas are part of a pioneering scientific experiment involving a complex seawater air-conditioning system and are powered by solar energy.

The eco station at the resort consists of research laboratories where scientists conduct short- and long-term studies in ecology, marine biology and conservation. Guests staying at the resort have the opportunity to participate in tours and excursions with the naturalists working at the station and learn more about this pioneering resort. It’s safe to say that Marlon Brando would have been very proud.

Robinson Crusoe-style escape

On a private island or otherwise known as a ‘motu’ close to the island of Raiatea, lies the luxury resort Motu Nao Nao offering the ultimate pristine Pacific holiday experience on a deserted island. This tropical oasis features three handcrafted bungalows created by local designer, Alain Fleurot. Each villa, accommodating two guests, has been developed to reflect the majestic beauty of your natural surrounds.

The resort’s private chef has designed a menu centred around locally and ethically sourced ingredients, drawing from the property’s kitchen garden and aquaculture, producing its own eggs, vegetables, spices and fish straight from the lagoon. Accompanied by Polynesian dance shows and private musical performances, a culinary experience in this private paradise is like no other.

The resort is run by solar energy (between 83-100 per cent), and has incorporated several waste reduction, wildlife protection and local community initiatives to ensure as little impact as possible on the environment.

Immerse in local culture

Nani Travels is French Polynesia’s first inbound tour operator focused on sustainable tourism and helps protect ecosystems and ancestral Polynesian traditions. Their Eco-Friendly Expedition programs are intended to have a direct positive impact on the environment, the economy, and the local population. This program focuses on giving young travellers a deeply meaningful, immersive experience. The CEO of Nano Travels, Alexandrine partners with local not-for-profit organisations to preserve cultural and environmental heritage while enabling visitors to immerse themselves and contribute in impactful ways.

Go completely off-grid

Hidden away on a private island in the southwest corner of the Tikehau Atoll lies Ninamu Resort, which gives travellers that true feeling of being on a castaway island. The luxury resort, which was originally founded by an Australian carpenter, lies completely off the grid and features just 10 handcrafted bungalows. Each bungalow is built with natural, locally-sourced materials and the food served at the resort is made with fresh, local and organic ingredients.

Guests can even participate in catching fish for dinner themselves. This small slice of paradise serves as the perfect launchpad for luxury-seeking outdoor enthusiasts; divers, fishermen, kiteboarders, surfers, paddlers, or anyone who simply loves relaxing in and around tropical waters that are bursting with life and energy. Guests can unwind out on the private beachfront day beds, float in the lagoon and just enjoy the serene silence, far away from everyday life.