Traditional Polynesia
Mangareva & Gambier Islands
Mangareva
The remote Gambier Islands lie just a little more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) southeast of Tahiti. Polynesian mythology tells of Mangareva being lifted from the ocean floor by the demi-god Maui. The mountains of Mangareva rise over the surrounding islands and the luminous lagoon like a great cathedral. Although once the center for Catholicism in French Polynesia, the people of Mangareva have returned to a more traditional Polynesian lifestyle.
The Gambier Islands are an important supply source for the Tahitian cultured pearl industry. Along with the pearl farms and tours of the island by road or boat, travelers can also explore the surprising number of surviving churches, convents, watchtowers and schools from the 1800s. Some structures are still in use such as St. Michel of Rikitea Church where the altar is inlaid with iridescent mother-of-pearl shell.
About Mangareva
1,239
POPULATION
6 / 9,6
SQ. MI / KM²
RIKITEA
ADMINISTRATIVE CENTER
4H25
FLIGHT TIME FROM TAHITI
Mangareva & Gambier Islands
The Gambier Islands – A Secluded Group of Islands
The Gambier archipelago is well off the beaten track. Travelers visiting this area will feel a sense of privilege as they’re greeted warmly by locals. The islands are still secluded and offer natural and cultural treasures, which creates a perfect mix of well-being and a unique change of scenery.
Mangareva – Breathtaking Lagoon & Lush Mountains
The lagoon, hosting the entire archipelago, is probably the most beautiful of The Islands of Tahiti. Both transparent and sandy, turquoise and dotted with coral heads, it displays a range of blues marvelously contrasting with the surrounding lush green mountains.
Gambier Mother of Pearls
The Gambier Islands are one of the largest contributors to Polynesia’s pearl industry with mother of pearl oysters that naturally flourish in the pristine, isolated environment more than 1,000 miles southeast of Tahiti. Gambier’s black pearls are prized among connoisseurs for having unparalleled quality, color, luster and shape. Rikitea is the center of production for pearls in the Gambier Islands, and floating pearl farms can be seen around the island.
Largest Cathedral in French Polynesia, Saint Michel
Although Mangareva hosts some pre-European remnants of marae and other artifacts, Mangareva is renowned for its fascinating religious 19th Century heritage. They say faith can move mountains. In Gambier, it has moved tons of coral.
As the cradle of Catholicism in Polynesia, Gambier features hundreds of religious buildings built by missionaries and islanders alike between 1840-70. These include churches, presbyteries, convents, schools and observation towers. You can visit them in Rikitea, ‘Akamaru, ‘Aukena and Taravai. Some of them are remarkably preserved while others are in ruins.
The largest and oldest monument of French Polynesia proudly stands in Rikitea, Cathedral Saint Michel (1848), which received a renovation in 2012. The cathedral is constructed of coral limestone and coral lime plaster and features two towers that were built in 1847 to 1848. The interior is ornately decorated with mother of pearl and black pearls.
Experience Life Outside on Mangareva
There are many things to do on Mangareva, but it is the ideal destination for outdoor adventurers looking for a pristine and secluded environment. With a stunning lagoon at the center, kayaking and snorkeling are popular activities for visitors. Hikers will find endless treasures while exploring Mangareva on foot by taking a hike up Mt. Duff or just touring the historic churches throughout the island. Many of Mangareva’s hotels and Tahitian Guesthouses offer guests bicycles for traveling the 16-mile road that loops around the island. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on isolated beach. For night life, the Gambier Islands remote location makes it the ideal location for star gazing free of light pollution.
