We recently returned from a 3 week dream trip to the south seas. While there, we had the opportunity to experience Ana and Tangy’s Valley Adventure. The short of it? It was AMAZING and I highly recommend it!
First of all, just getting to the Marquesas is an adventure in itself. After arriving in Tahiti (and spending a couple nights there acclimating), we took an Air Tahiti flight from Papeete to Nuku Hiva (about 3 hours). The airport is on the far northwest corner of the island, and it’s about a 90 minute drive/ride up through the mountains to the main town, Taiohae. Our guesthouse had arranged a taxi for us which was waiting as we arrived. After collecting our luggage, off we went. It really is a beautiful island. Once we arrived in town, we settled in and got some quick dinner.
The next morning, we walked to the marina where a boat met us to take us to the Valley. More adventure! It’s open ocean, so it was a bit rough but beautiful. After 40 min or so, we arrived at the beach where our hosts met us. (As mentioned, there is no dock so you climb off the boat and wade in to shore). After introductions and some explanations about the valley and Tangy’s family history there, we set off to their home where we would spend the next 3 nights.
I really could go on and on, but I will try to summarize.
Lodging—this is camping. It’s relatively easy camping—the tent is all set up for you, the air mattress is inflated and in place, there is a regular flush toilet, sink, and shower (all semi-outdoor). The grounds are spacious, and there is a large canopy set up over the tent and a table and chairs. The river runs along the edge of the property, providing some relaxing white noise in the background.
Activities—we hiked to the waterfall, walked to both beaches (white sand and black sand), saw historic archeological sites, learned about Marquesan culture, hiked up to a former
warriors’ checkpoint/lookout (the most challenging part for us, but well worth it!), made coconut milk, heard lots of stories about Ana’s adventures, stargazed, watched for goats—very peaceful and amazing.
Food—wow! Where do I start. 3 meals a day of FANTASTIC fresh local foods, hand prepared just for us. You will NOT go hungry. We enjoyed every meal and were shocked at the portions offered. We ate as much as we could and there were still leftovers.
If you like the outdoors, are interested in Polynesian Culture, and want a truly epic, unique, genuine experience, then make your way to Nuku Hiva and visit Ana and Tangy. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done in all my travels.
Bon Voyage!