Discover the Underwater Paradise: Diving Fakarava

Fakarava, known as an exceptional dive site, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve hidden in the magnificent Tuamotu Atoll Chain. Famous for its rich and diverse marine life, it’s a paradise on earth offering unforgettable diving experiences. This blog post will guide you through your adventure of diving Fakarava, exploring its hidden wonders, and linking it to Polynesian and Tahitian culture.

The Charm of Fakarava

Fakarava is the second largest atoll in the Tuamotu Islands. It is home to numerous diving spots notable for their rich biodiversity. Schools of many species, including grey reef sharks, barracuda, turtles, dolphins, manta rays, and a plethora of tropical reef fish grace the waters. You may even see the rare Napoleon fish or the breathtaking hammerhead shark.

Linked to Polynesian mythology, Fakarava boasts two sacred passes named Garuae and Tumakohua, considered doorways to the ancient world of gods and mythical beings. Traditional Polynesian culture regarded the ocean as a source of life and spiritual power, reflected in how Fakarava’s marine world is teeming with life.

Dive Sites in Fakarava

Garuae Pass (North Pass)

As the largest navigable pass in French Polynesia, Garuae brings visitors face-to-face with an incredible profusion of marine life on every dive. The local dive operators suggest that the best time to explore the pass is during the incoming tide when the water brings in crystal-clear visibility.

Tumakohua Pass (South Pass)

Ranked among the best dive sites in the world, Tumakohua is well-known for crossing paths with hundreds of grey reef sharks typically located at the “Shark’s Wall” or “Wall of Sharks.” Divers from all around the world visit the south pass to live the unique experience of drifting through the aquamarine waters surrounded by fascinating marine species.

The Best Time to Dive in Fakarava

While Fakarava offers excellent diving conditions year-round, divers often prefer the months of June and July. This period corresponds to the annual spawning of groupers, which attract a significant number of sharks, resulting in a spectacular marine event not to be missed.

Finish your Dive with a Cultural Experience

Extend your Fakarava experience on land by soaking up some of the traditional Tahitian culture. The local village of Rotoava is adorned with authentic Polynesian charm, complete with palm-topped motus, lovely churches, and other remnants of ancient Polynesian culture.

Plan your Dive

Ensure to plan your trip proficiently with local dive centers and respect the marine life to keep this underwater paradise pristine for future generations.

Let’s preserve Fakarava’s underwater sanctuary as we uncover its enigmatic intrigue and beauty — a world that beautifully intertwines extraordinary marine life, Polynesian mythology, and traditional Tahitian culture.

Diving Fakarava — more than just a dive, it’s an enthralling journey that connects us back to nature and the divine.

Remember, the ocean is more than just a dive site; it is a crucial part of the Polynesian culture that we must respect and preserve.