Discover Ua Huka: The Volcanic Island (with itinerary)!

Welcome to Ua Huka, one of the famous Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.

Our Ua Huka travel guide combines practical advice with INSIDER KNOWLEDGE to help you plan the perfect getaway.

Would you like to know what to expect from the island? Check out the video below!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• 🌴 Two landscapes: Ua Huka has two sides—a lush green paradise and arid, desert-like plains 🐎, home to wild horses and goats.

• 🌳 Amazing nature: Explore the Papuakeikaha Arboretum, home to the world’s largest collection of citrus trees 🍊, and discover ancient Vaikivi petroglyphs that reveal the island’s rich history.

• 🚢 Visit Ua Huka by cruise: Experience the Aranui Cruise, a luxurious mixed cargo ship that takes you on an unforgettable 13-day journey through Bora Bora and the Marquesas Islands 🏝️!

Location of Ua Huka

Ua Huka, one of the Marquesas Islands, lies between Nuku Hiva, Ua Pou, and Hiva Oa, 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) northeast of Tahiti.

It is the fourth largest island in the archipelago, known for its rugged landscapes and unique biodiversity (discover why below).

On Ua Huka, you will find TWO SIDES of the island.

One side is a lush, GREEN PARADISE, with valleys and rich vegetation.

This paradise attracts very rare endemic bird species.

The other part of the island is an arid, DESERT-LIKE plain land.

This dry region is home to wild horses and goats that graze around, giving it a raw and untamed charm.

Best activities on Ua Huka

Papuakeikaha Arboretum

One of Ua Huka’s BEST ACTIVITIES is the Papuakeikaha Arboretum, which has the LARGEST COLLECTION of citrus fruit trees IN THE WORLD. You simply cannot miss visiting this island and then skipping on the Arboretum.

Spread over six acres (2.4 hectares), you can find 5,000 disease-free citrus trees from 150 different varieties.

Founded in the 1970s, the Arboretum’s mission is to combat deforestation by supplying saplings to nurseries across French Polynesia.

Locals can use these saplings for planting, supporting reforestation efforts, and sustainable agriculture.

The Arboretum is ideal for spotting the Ultramarine Lorikeet, often called the “most beautiful bird in the Marquesas.”

Found only on Ua Huka, this rare and endangered bird is a highlight of your visit.

INSIDER TIP: Visit the Arboretum in the early morning for the best chance of seeing the Ultramarine Lorikeet and other bird species in their natural habitat.

Adventure tourism

Next to the famous Arboretum, Ua Huka has amazing adventurous activities.

Hane Bay is a must-visit!

About 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) east of Hane, this bay features a black pebble beach edged by frothy, azure waves.

From here, you can enjoy direct views of the imposing sugar-loaf-shaped Motu Hane.

DID YOU KNOW: The area is perfect for a horseback ride along the coastline, one of the most famous activities on the island!

You can also go on a horseback ride to the Vaikivi petroglyphs.

Located near an ancient volcanic caldera, this inland site shows carvings of outrigger canoes, human faces, octopuses, and geometric designs.

Cultural activities

The village of Vaipee, the main settlement on the island, offers a glimpse into Ua Huka’s rich cultural heritage.

City walk in Vaipee

Stroll along the road leading from the harbor into the valley to explore:

• Wood carving workshops: Ua Huka is famous for its wood carvers, which are considered the BEST in the Marquesas. Exquisite wooden artifacts are displayed in the island’s churches and craft houses, particularly in Hane and Hokatu.

• Sunday morning mass: Experience the power of traditional Marquesan singing in Vaipee’s church.

INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss the craft houses in Hokatu for a chance to see the craftsmanship up close and purchase authentic souvenirs.

Musea in Ua Huka

The wood museum and Te Tumu museum

• Wood Museum: Features cross-sections of wood species, wooden sculptures, and artifacts showing Ua Huka’s craftsmanship.

• Te Tumu Museum: The island’s oldest museum, with displays of fishhooks, tiki statues, and recent archaeological finds. Hosts the annual sculpture competition on 29 June, celebrating local artistry.

INSIDER TIP: Visit these two museums together, located right next to the Papuakeikaha Arboretum.

The museum of the sea in Hane

• Dedicated to Polynesian maritime history, highlighting traditional outrigger canoes and construction techniques.
• Key exhibit: An ancient Marquesan canoe discovered in a funeral cave on Nuku Hiva.

TRIPADVISOR REVIEW: Visited when on the island of Ua Huka and spent a pleasant hour understanding better the culture of the islands and how the people lived and navigated. Very well set out for a local site; well done.

The petroglyph museum in Hokatu

• Displays molds of ancient petroglyphs, including Vao Nui, a human head engraving with large eyes

• Focuses on the mystery and symbolism of Marquesan rock art.

INSIDER TIP: Pair this museum with a visit to Hokatu’s craft houses for authentic wood carvings.

Transport options in Ua Huka

Getting around Ua Huka requires some planning:

Transportation options

• Local Transport: There is no public transportation on Ua Huka. To get around, you’ll rely on 4×4 vehicles, available for hire, or opt for a guided tour arranged through local operators.

• Horseback Riding: Go on a horseback ride to reach remote areas like the Vaikivi petroglyphs or see Ua Huka’s two sides of the island.

• Hiking: The island’s terrain and beauty make hiking a top way to discover the island. Bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water.

Explore Ua Huka aboard the Aranui Cruise

Have you heard about the Aranui Cruise?

The Aranui Cruise is a mixed cargo and luxurious passenger ship that combines transport with a Polynesian experience.

Operating since 2016, this cruise is an excellent way to explore the Marquesas Islands, including Ua Huka.

Most vacation packages include:

• Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles with Air Tahiti Nui.
• Flower lei greeting upon arrival in Papeete.
• Transfers between the airport, hotel, and pier.
• Accommodation:
  • 1 night at Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts in an Ocean View Room (breakfast included).
  • 11 nights aboard the Aranui in a Standard Cabin with full board.

Stops during the cruise include Bora Bora, Rangiroa, and all Marquesas Islands, allowing you to enjoy your vacation but also to get to know the real culture and way of life in French Polynesia.

KEEP IN MIND: the cruise is not cheap—around 6500 USD for 13 days. Take a look at the Aranui cruise website for the schedules and prices! 

History of Ua Huka

Early settlements

Ua Huka was among the first islands in the Marquesas that were habited by Polynesians.

Archaeological sites, including petroglyphs and ancient artifacts, revealed the island’s roots.

Cultural heritage

Ua Huka is famous for preserving Marquesan traditions like wood carving and stone artistry.

More information can be found on the official government website of the Marquesas Islands.

Flora and Fauna

Ua Huka’s valleys and arid zones support a mix of tropical vegetation and drought-resistant plants.

The island is home to rare species like the Ultramarine Lorikeet (Vini ultramarina), one of the most endangered birds in the world.

Geology of Ua Huka

Formed by volcanic activity, Ua Huka has rugged cliffs, high ridges, and an ancient volcanic caldera near the Vaikivi petroglyphs.

Its dual terrain offers stark contrasts: lush, green landscapes on one side and desert-like expanses on the other, home to wild horses and goats.

This is mainly due to the island’s volcanic origin, where the windward side of Ua Huka receives more moisture from trade winds, creating the lush green vegetation found in the valleys.

On the other hand, the leeward side is sheltered from these winds, making it much drier and creating arid, desert-like landscapes.

Demographics

Ua Huka has a small population of around 600 residents living in three villages: Vaipae’e, Hane, and Hokatu.

2-Day Itinerary for Ua Huka Island

Day 1: Museums and Archeological Sites

• Morning: Begin your day in Vaipaee with a visit to the Musée Communal et Archéologique at the Te Tumu site. Explore exhibits showcasing warrior spears, model outrigger canoes, and tiki statues.

• Afternoon: Head to Hane to see the island’s archeological treasures, including the Vaikivi petroglyphs, ancient paepae (stone platforms), and the superb tiki statues. A guide is recommended to hear the stories behind these landmarks.

INSIDER TIP: Stop by Hokatu’s craft houses to admire and purchase handcrafted wood carvings as souvenirs.

Day 2: Nature, Horses, and the Arboretum

• Morning: Start the day at the Papuakeikaha Arboretum, home to hundreds of citrus varieties from around the world.

• Afternoon: Enjoy a horseback ride from Vaipaee to one of the island’s picturesque valleys, such as Hane or Hokatu. Beginners and experienced riders can take in panoramic views of the ocean and Ua Huka’s terrain.

INSIDER TIP: For a relaxing end to your trip, visit the black pebble beach at Hane Bay. Keep an eye out for manta rays near Motu Hane, a coral islet shaped like a sugarloaf.

Conclusion: Why visit Ua Huka?

Ua Huka is a hidden gem in the Marquesas Islands, offering a mix of nature, cultural heritage, and adventurous activities.

From exploring its museums and archeological sites to seeing the island’s two-sided landscapes and endemic wildlife.

Whether you’re drawn to the peaceful villages, the horseback riding, or the Papuakeikaha Arboretum, Ua Huka provides a unique escape from the ordinary.