Fakarava, French Polynesia

Fakarava's main attractions are its incredible natural wonders, best experienced through water activities. The Garuae Pass, located at the northern end of the atoll near the main village, is one of the widest passes in French Polynesia and a world-renowned site for drift diving and snorkeling, famous for its 'wall of sharks'.

For a full-day excursion, many visit the Tumakohua Pass (South Pass), another legendary dive spot offering incredible biodiversity. A trip to Les Sables Roses (the Pink Sand Beaches) reveals stunningly beautiful and remote landscapes, accessible only by a long boat ride across the lagoon. In the village of Rotoava, you can visit the historic church built from coral and browse local pearl farms to learn about the cultivation of the Tahitian black pearl.

Given Fakarava's remote location in the Tuamotu Archipelago, day trips to other major islands are not feasible. Cruising itineraries often treat each atoll as a unique destination. The most notable 'nearby' destination, often visited on the same cruise itinerary, is Rangiroa, another world-famous atoll for diving, located about 150 miles (240 km) away.

Some specialized boat charters may offer trips to the smaller, neighboring atoll of Toau for a more secluded experience, but these are full-day excursions that must be arranged in advance. For most cruise visitors, the focus remains entirely on exploring the vast lagoon and motus of Fakarava itself.

Cruise ships do not dock in Fakarava; they anchor in the calm, protected waters of the lagoon just off the main village, Rotoava. Passengers are then brought ashore via the ship's tender boats.

The tender pier is located directly in Rotoava, so you arrive right in the heart of the island's small community. From the pier, the village's few shops, pearl farms, church, and dive centers are all within easy walking distance. No shuttles or further transportation are needed to explore the immediate village area.

The official currency is the French Pacific Franc (CFP or XPF). It is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate (approximately 119.33 XPF to 1 EUR).

While some tour operators and larger businesses may accept Euros, US dollars are not widely used. It is highly recommended to have local currency for smaller purchases at local shops and craft markets. An ATM is available in the main village of Rotoava, but it's wise to bring cash as a backup. Credit cards are accepted at most dive centers and pearl farms, but less so at smaller establishments.

Fakarava is considered a very safe destination with extremely low crime rates, and visitors can feel secure exploring the main village of Rotoava independently. The primary safety concerns are environmental rather than criminal.

The tropical sun is intense, so high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing are essential to prevent sunburn. Due to strong currents, especially in the passes, you should only undertake drift snorkeling or scuba diving with certified, reputable local guides. It is also wise to wear reef shoes when wading to protect your feet from sharp coral and stonefish. Staying hydrated and using insect repellent are also recommended.

Fakarava enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures consistently hovering around 80-85°F (27-29°C). The year is divided into two main seasons: a drier, slightly cooler season from April to October, which is the peak time for cruises, and a warmer, more humid wet season from November to March.

Even during the dry season, brief tropical showers can occur, so packing a light rain jacket is a good idea. Visitors should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, and strong sun protection. The wet season also coincides with the cyclone season, though major storms are relatively rare in this region.

Transportation options on Fakarava are limited, reflecting its tranquil and undeveloped nature. The main village of Rotoava is small and easily explored on foot.

There are no public buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services available on the atoll. The most popular way to get around the main motu (islet) is by bicycle, and rentals are readily available near the pier. To explore other parts of the lagoon, such as the famous South Pass, you will need to book a boat excursion. These boat tours are the primary way to reach remote beaches and premier dive sites.

Shopping in Fakarava is a low-key affair focused on local, authentic products rather than large-scale retail. The primary shopping opportunities are found in the main village of Rotoava, where small boutiques and family-run stalls offer unique souvenirs.

The most sought-after item is the Tahitian black pearl. Fakarava is home to several pearl farms where you can learn about the cultivation process and purchase high-quality, certified pearls directly from the source. Other popular items include locally made pareos (sarongs), wood carvings, and shell jewelry. Prices for pearls are generally fixed, but friendly bargaining may be possible for handicrafts at smaller stalls.