Fakarava

Fakarava is the second largest atoll (to Rangiroa) in French Polynesia. The rectangular-shaped lagoon measures 37 mi. (60 kms.) long by /15 mi. (25 kms) wide. The atoll is 303 mi. (488 kms.) northeast of Tahiti and is a mere 70 minutes by direct flight. Inside the reef are 94, mostly unihabited motus (islets). Motu Irifa is known for its mirror-like luminescence and Motu Koka Koka, surrounded by pink sand beaches, is a favorite picnic spot.

Until fairly recently, Fakarava was the social, religious and cultural capital of the Tuamotu Archipelago. Its ancient name was Havaiki Nui. There area a few points of interest on land besides the villages, one being the coral shell of a Catholic church built in the 1860′s, the remains of’ another church built a decade later, a prison and the former home of the French administrator for the Tuamotus.

The Garuae Pass, on the northwest side of the atoll is the largest in French Polynesia and serves as anchorage for yachts and ocean-going liners. On the southeast side is the Tumakohua Pass, which because of its deep, clear waters is a preferred spot for drift snorkeling.

Even though Fakarava is the newest destination to welcome resort visitors, it was one of the first population centers and the ancient capital of the region. The lagoon is rich with life below and above the surface and a prime example of nature at its finest. So pure is the environment here that Fakarava is being considered for classification as a UNESCO nature reserve for the preservation of rare species. Parts of it have already been included for protection in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Global Network.

An untouched world where nesting birds and marine life live in harmony with the land and water. The rich ecosystem is home to rare birds, plants, and crustaceans while the dive sites are virtually undiscovered. Life along the shores is equally unique with quaint villages, old coral churches, and welcoming people.

Life among the 400 residents is centralized around the quaint villages of Rotoava and the Tetamanu. The Aranui 3 calls here on the second day of its itinerary. The only resort, Le Maitai Dream Fakarava, is located within a few miles of the main village of Rotoava. This charming, authentically designed property features spacious beach and garden bungalows and a remote setting along the virgin shores of the lagoon.