GETTING THERE & AROUND

Papeete, in Tahiti, is the international entry point into French Polynesia. Although there are no direct flights from the UK, Air Tahiti Nui and Air France fly from Paris via Los Angeles. airtahitinui.com airfrance.co.uk Average flight time: 25h.

Domestic flights between islands are operated by Air Tahiti. Journeys take an hour to Rangiroa and three hours to Hiva Oa, both departing from Papeete. airtahiti.com

The best way to explore Rangiroa is by bike, available at most guesthouses. A car is needed on Hiva Oa, although excursions can be booked via lodges.

WHEN TO GO

May to October is the best time to visit, as it’s dry and warm (21-27C). The rainy season is from November to April, although downpours are short and days sunny (25-35C). It’s possible to dive year-round; humpback whales appear from August to October, hammerhead sharks from December to March and manta rays between June and October.

WHERE TO STAY

Te Moana Tahiti Resort, Papeete. From £256, B&B. temoanatahitiresort.pf Le Coconut Lodge, Rangiroa. From £204, B&B. lecoconutlodge.com Pension Temetiu Village, Hiva Oa. From £84, B&B. temetiuvillage.com

MORE INFO

Tahiti Tourism. tahititourisme.com Lonely Planet Tahiti and French Polynesia. RRP: £16.99

Noa Noa: The Tahiti Journal of Paul Gaugin. RRP: £4.49

HOW TO DO IT

Original Travel has a 12-night trip to Tahiti, Rangiroa and Hiva Oa from

£6,780 per person, including B&B and half-board accommodation, transfers, several tours and flights from Paris to Tahiti. The trip includes return travel by Eurostar to Paris, where you’ll spend one night before flying. originaltravel.co.uk