Travel and stay in French Polynesia
From lagoons to mountains, the harmony of a living paradise
Feeling like getting away to one of the most enchanting archipelagos in the world, amid turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows and authentic Polynesian culture?
French Polynesia, a jewel of the South Pacific, captivates with its landscapes of unreal beauty — the legendary lagoon of Bora Bora, the twin bays of Moorea, the coral atolls of Fakarava — but also with its unique way of life, imbued with Polynesian “Mana,” traditional dances and unparalleled hospitality.
The best time to visit French Polynesia runs from May to October, during the dry season, with ideal temperatures and exceptional underwater visibility.
Voyages Flammang supports you in designing a tailor-made trip to French Polynesia, from multi-island itineraries to luxury beach stays, entirely adapted to your budget and your dreams.
Why go to French Polynesia?
Lagoons in a thousand shades of blue, overwater bungalows, diving with sharks and rays, the culture of “Mana”: French Polynesia is one of the most fabulous destinations on the planet. Each island, from Bora Bora to the Marquesas, offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Discover our best offers for your stay in French Polynesia
Ready to enjoy the ultimate experience of lagoons and overwater bungalows in French Polynesia?
We have selected for you our most popular stays in French Polynesia, designed to meet every aspiration: multi-island combinations (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora), luxury resorts with overwater bungalows, cruises to the Marquesas or the Tuamotu.
Whether you’re looking for an ideal honeymoon in Bora Bora, an island-hopping discovery tour of the archipelagos, a cultural immersion in Tahiti or a diving expedition in the Tuamotus, each trip can be fully tailored to your dates and your budget.
Choose your package and we’ll create for you a custom-made trip to French Polynesia, turnkey.
€5,674
price per person
Island Combination – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – Huahine – Bora Bora
- Ideal for a honeymoon
- Inter-island flights included
€3,055
price per person
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
- Resort situé sur l’île principale de Tahiti, à 2 km de l’aéroport
- Bungalows sur pilotis et villas avec vues lagon ou Moorea
- Jardins luxuriants avec panorama sur les pics volcaniques et le lagon.
€14,000
price per person
Cruise to the Marquesas Islands
- 24-day, 21-night private tailor-made tour.
- Stay on Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a before the cruise.
- Cruise aboard the Aranui to the Marquesas Islands.
Our ULT travels
7298€
price per person
Polynésie
- Découverte des archipels et lagons
- Séjour balnéaire et de découvertes
When to go to French Polynesia?
French Polynesia enjoys a maritime tropical climate all year round, but the ideal period varies depending on your activities: diving and beach time in the dry season, with the best underwater visibility in the heart of the austral winter.
May to October – Dry season, the best time to visit
This is the peak tourist season in Polynesia. Temperatures are pleasant (29–30°C), humidity is lower, rain is rare, and the lagoons are crystal clear. It’s the ideal time for diving, swimming, hiking, and water sports. The Heiva festival (July) is an exceptional cultural highlight.
November to April – Wet season, tropical and hot
Temperatures remain high (31°C) with more frequent rain, often as short, intense showers. Prices are more attractive and the islands are less crowded. Underwater visibility remains decent, and the landscapes are lush. Best avoided during cyclone season (risk from December to March).
Our recommendation
For a first visit, opt for June to September to make the most of the lagoons and water activities. October and November offer excellent value for money while still enjoying good conditions. For divers, May to October is the ideal window.
Tahiti
| Jan | Feb | March | April | Mai | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our opinion | ||||||||||||
| Season | ||||||||||||
| Tourist peak | ||||||||||||
| T° max | 31°C | 31°C | 31°C | 31°C | 30°C | 30°C | 29°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C | 31°C |
| Rainy days | 17 d | 17 d | 15 d | 11 d | 9 d | 7 d | 6 d | 5 d | 6 d | 7 d | 10 d | 14 d |
| T° sea | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 28°C | 28°C | 27°C | 27°C | 27°C | 28°C | 28°C | 29°C |
| Beach | ||||||||||||
| Diving | ||||||||||||
| Hiking |
Where to go in French Polynesia? The must-see islands
Bora Bora – the legendary jewel of the Pacific
Nicknamed “the Pearl of the Pacific”, Bora Bora is the iconic island of French Polynesia. Its lagoon with shimmering turquoise hues, crowned by the majestic Mount Otemanu, and its luxury hotels with overwater bungalows make it the world’s most sought-after honeymoon destination. A magical place where every sunrise seems painted by an artist.
Ideal for:
- honeymoons and wedding anniversaries
- overwater bungalows with direct access to the lagoon
- diving with sharks, rays and turtles
Not to be missed:
- lagoon safari by boat and snorkeling
- hike up Mount Otemanu
- candlelit dinner on a pontoon at sunset
Moorea – twin bays and volcanic mountains
Just 17 km from Tahiti, Moorea captivates with its two iconic bays (Cook and Opunohu), its green mountains plunging into the lagoon, and its fragrant pineapple plantations. Less touristy than Bora Bora, it offers a more authentic Polynesia, ideal for hiking, snorkeling with dolphins and rays, and diving.
Perfect for:
- mountain hikes with panoramic views
- snorkeling with dolphins and manta rays
- easy combination with Tahiti or Bora Bora
Must-see:
- Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay
- Belvédère viewpoint (exceptional panorama)
- garden of the Kellum Stop Hotel
Tahiti – main island and gateway to Polynesia
A large volcanic island and home to the capital Papeete, Tahiti is the starting point for any trip to Polynesia. Its volcanic black-sand beaches, jungle waterfalls, Papeete’s colorful market, and its museums (including the Pearl Museum) offer an immersion into authentic Polynesian culture. The less-visited south coast reveals a wilder Polynesia.
Ideal for:
- discovering Polynesian culture
- black-sand beaches and waterfalls
- a stopover en route to the other islands
To explore:
- Papeete market on Sunday morning
- Faarumai Waterfall and Papara Beach
- Museum of Tahiti and the Islands
The Tuamotus – Fakarava & Rangiroa, diving atolls
The atolls of the Tuamotus (Fakarava, Rangiroa) are world-renowned for diving. Their current-swept passes bring together hundreds of gray reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and dolphins. Fakarava is listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with crystal-clear waters. Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the world, captivates with its endless lagoons.
For lovers of:
- world-class diving (sharks, manta rays)
- snorkeling in current-swept passes
- a total change of scenery and unspoiled nature
Not to be missed:
- Tumakohua Pass in Fakarava (shark wall)
- Tiputa village in Rangiroa
- Blue Lagoon (Rangiroa’s inner lagoon)
The Marquesas – at the end of the world, the essentials
Isolated 1,500 km northeast of Tahiti, the Marquesas Islands (Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa) are a radically different Polynesia: dramatic landscapes of vertiginous cliffs and deep valleys, archaeology with the famous stone tikis, a strong culture, and wild nature. Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel found their final resting place here. Accessible on a cruise aboard the Aranui.
For travelers in search of:
- absolute authenticity and wild nature
- archaeology and deep Polynesian culture
- a one-of-a-kind expedition cruise
To discover:
- the graves of Gauguin and Brel on Hiva Oa
- archaeological sites of Nuku Hiva
- Aranui cruise (21 nights)
Which trip to French Polynesia is right for you?
French Polynesia lends itself to many travel styles: a romantic honeymoon in Bora Bora, a multi-island family itinerary, a diving adventure in the Tuamotu, or a cultural expedition to the Marquesas. Depending on your wishes and pace, each archipelago offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Family trip – lagoons, dolphins & snorkeling
French Polynesia is an unforgettable family destination. The calm lagoons of Moorea make it possible to swim safely with dolphins and rays, the beaches of Bora Bora are paradise for children, and the resorts offer activities suitable for all ages.
You will especially enjoy:
- snorkeling with dolphins and rays in Moorea
- a lagoon safari by boat in Bora Bora
- discovering Polynesian culture
Couples trip – honeymoon & overwater bungalows
French Polynesia is the ultimate honeymoon destination. Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows with direct lagoon access, candlelit dinners facing Mount Otemanu, and glowing sunsets over the Leeward Islands create an unrivaled romantic setting for a trip for two.
To experience as a duo:
- overwater bungalows in Bora Bora
- sunsets over the lagoon
- Polynesian gourmet dinner
Trip with friends – diving, adventure & Polynesian culture
With friends, French Polynesia is best explored to the fullest: diving with hundreds of sharks in the passes of Fakarava, kitesurfing on Moorea’s lagoon, hiking along Tahiti’s ridgelines, or a getaway to the Marquesas on the Aranui. Evenings to the rhythm of Tamure and feasts of raw fish in coconut milk round out an intense Polynesian experience.
Don’t miss:
- diving in the passes of Fakarava and Rangiroa
- kitesurfing and surfing in Tahiti (Teahupo’o)
- expedition cruise to the Marquesas
Practical tips for your trip to French Polynesia
Bora Bora is nicknamed “the Pearl of the Pacific” and is among the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in the world. French Polynesia is a French overseas territory, which means the euro is not used there: the local currency is the Pacific Franc (CFP), with a fixed exchange rate against the euro.
The currency is the Pacific Franc (CFP), with a fixed exchange rate against the euro (1 € = 119.33 CFP). Bank cards are accepted in the major hotels and restaurants on the main islands. It is recommended to carry cash for small businesses, markets, and more remote islands such as the Marquesas or the Tuamotu.
The official languages are French and Tahitian. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major hotels. A few words in Tahitian (“Ia orana” for hello, “Māuruuru” for thank you) are always greatly appreciated.
French Polynesia uses type A and B plugs (as in the United States). Voltage is 110V at 60Hz in some places and 220V in others. A universal adapter is strongly recommended. Major hotels often provide adapters on request.
French Polynesia can be reached from Luxembourg via Paris CDG (Air France / Air Tahiti Nui), Los Angeles, or Tokyo to Papeete-Faa’a (PPT).
- Total duration: 22 to 26 hours with 1 to 2 stopovers
- No visa required: Polynesia is a French overseas territory
- Direct Paris–Papeete flight with Air Tahiti Nui: about 17h30
Inter-island travel is mainly by plane (Air Tahiti) from Papeete to all islands, or by high-speed ferry (Ono Ono, Terevau) between Tahiti and Moorea (30 min), or to Huahine, Raiatea and Bora Bora (4 to 8h). The Aranui cruise serves the Marquesas. Inter-island flights should be booked in advance during high season.
French Polynesia is a safe destination. No mandatory vaccines are required, but vaccination against dengue (endemic) is recommended. Bring good sun protection and mosquito repellent. Tap water is safe to drink in Tahiti and Moorea, but opt for bottled water on remote atolls.
Create your dream trip to French Polynesia now
Bora Bora lagoons, overwater bungalows, diving in the Tuamotu and authentic Polynesian culture.
We design for you a tailor-made trip to French Polynesia, fully adapted to your dates, your budget and your dreams.
Discover our other destinations in Oceania as well
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FAQ: everything you need to know before leaving for French Polynesia
Define your budget and priorities: an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, diving in the Tuamotu, or a multi-island itinerary. Book well in advance (6 to 12 months), as luxury hotels fill up quickly during peak season (June–September). Plan inter-island flights at the same time. Our Flammang advisors can design a tailor-made itinerary.
A minimum of one week to visit Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Two weeks allow you to add Huahine, Raiatea or the Tuamotu. Three weeks or more for a grand tour including the Marquesas. Given the distance and the cost of the trip, plan at least 12 to 14 nights to make the most of it.
The best time is the dry season, from May to October, with pleasant temperatures (29–30°C), little rain and excellent underwater visibility. July–August is peak season, with the Heiva festival. Avoid December to March (rainy season and risk of cyclones over the Austral Islands).
French Polynesia is one of the most expensive destinations in the world. Expect between €5,000 and €10,000 per person for a week in an overwater bungalow, flights included. Multi-island combinations or Aranui cruises range from €8,000 to €15,000. More affordable options exist in family-run guesthouses (fare), around €3,000–€4,000 per person.
No. French Polynesia is an overseas territory of France (overseas collectivity). Citizens of the European Union, including Luxembourg, can stay there freely without a visa, with a valid passport or a valid national identity card.
French Polynesia offers an exceptional range of activities: diving in the passes of Fakarava or Rangiroa, snorkeling with dolphins and manta rays in Moorea, a lagoon safari in Bora Bora, kitesurfing, mountain hikes, outrigger canoe excursions, discovering Maori culture, and world-class surfing at Teahupo’o (Tahiti).
About 22 to 26 hours from Luxembourg with one or two stopovers. The most common route is Luxembourg → Paris CDG → Papeete with Air France/Air Tahiti Nui (direct Paris–Papeete flight in about 17h30). It is also possible to travel via Los Angeles or Tokyo depending on availability.
Yes, absolutely. Bora Bora is regularly voted the best honeymoon destination in the world. Overwater bungalows with private lagoon access, candlelit dinners facing Mount Otemanu and breathtaking sunsets create an unmatched romantic setting. Our advisors offer special honeymoon packages with included perks.
Yes, French Polynesia combines well with Australia (Sydney, Cairns) or New Zealand with a stopover on the way out or back via Los Angeles. A French Polynesia–Australia combination is very popular and lets you explore two radically different worlds in one grand trip. Our advisors can design this tailor-made itinerary.
Yes, French Polynesia is an excellent family destination. The calm lagoons of Moorea and Huahine are perfect for children, with shallow-water snorkeling, encounters with tame stingrays and dolphins. The large hotels offer kids’ clubs. However, plan for solid logistics for very young children (long flights, heat).