See more ideas for: French Polynesia | Japan
Explore from Tokyo to French Polynesia on this holiday of a lifetime. Starting in Tokyo, where you can wander amongst the neon signs and ancient temples before tasting fresh sashimi at the local markets and dropping into a sake bar after dinner. Fly to Tahiti, to begin your time in paradise! Spend the next few days snorkelling with colourful fish in Moorea, hiking through the sacred mountains of Raiatea and sinking your toes into the white sands of Bora Bora. An iconic combination of two incredible destinations!
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your requirements; please contact one of our consultants to start planning your dream trip.
Depart the UK from your chosen airport.
On arrival in Tokyo, you’ll make your own way into the city, checking into your hotel for three nights.
You have two days to explore Tokyo, and your time is sure to fly by. Why not start in Tsukiji Outer Market, which is always bustling, as visitors and locals come to enjoy delicious food and shop for traditional ingredients? It’s a great spot to grab a snack before heading over to the 400-year-old Zojoji Temple. Sitting next to the Tokyo Tower, the temple is a great place to get a glimpse of Japan’s ancient history and modern architecture side by side.
You can also enjoy a bowl of ramen for lunch before spending the afternoon discovering the serene beauty of Hie Shrine, a quiet haven in the bustling district of Akasaka. Statues of mythical creatures guard the shrine, which sits at the top of several escalators (a modern addition!). The shrine is famous for the 90 bright red tori gates that divide the human world and the spirit world, as well as being a doorway to a place where the gods can hear our prayers. It’s an extraordinary place to visit, so take your time.
Included: 4* hotel
Make your own way to the airport by train before hopping onto your international flight from Tokyo to Tahiti. You'll arrive earlier on the same day and will be met at the airport and greeted with a flower lei, before being taken to your guesthouse by shared transfer where you will check in for a 1 night stay. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Today you will be collected from your pension and taken to the airport, where you'll take a 15 minute flight to the neighbouring island of Moorea. Famous for its heart shape Moorea is one of the most scenically striking of all the islands in French Polynesia, popular for its laidback vibe and friendly locals. On arrival at the airport you'll be met and driven to the north west coast of the island where you will check in for the next 2 nights.
With three nights to enjoy lush Moorea, you’ll have plenty of time to kick off your shoes and relax. Alternatively, if you're feeling energetic, you can get out and discover this beautiful island. Moorea is a green wonderland waiting to be explored. Take hikes along steep cliffs, swim in the bright blue lagoon where colourful fish and rays dance through the water and stretch out on unspoilt beaches that will blow you away.
After breakfast you'll be taken to the airport for your 40 minute flight to Raiatea, the next stop on your tailormade itinerary. Rich in culture and historical significance this island is home to ancient myths and hidden temples, the second largest of the Society Islands, Raiatea shares an expansive lagoon and coral reef with its neighbouring island, Taha’a.
On arrival into Raiatea Airport you will be met and taken to your hotel where you will check in for a 2 night stay.
You have a full day today to explore the island. In the valley of Faaroa on the east of the island is a botanical getaway. Trees, flowers and shrubs line the river overlooking the bay where you can take a cruise or paddleboard. Drive the road that twists around Mount Oropiro to experience amazing views of the lush island, take a lagoon tour or go hiking. Nearby Ta'haa shares the same lagoon, here you can swim at private motu (small islet) or learn more about the nearby pearl farms.
You'll be collected from your hotel and taken to the airport for your onward flight to your final destination and perhaps most famous island yet, Bora Bora. Arriving around 20 minutes after take-off, you’ll be met upon landing and taken to your hotel where you will check in for a 3 night stay. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Spend 2 days exploring this volcanic island and it's stunning turquoise lagoon, the clear water is perfect for snorkelling and provides exceptional diving as well as the opportunity to see Manta Rays and Sharks in their natural environment. Explore the lagoon by yacht, canoe or glass bottomed boat. Take a picnic lunch on a private motu (sand islet), or take a 4WD safari around the island. Probably one of the most romantic places on earth, your time in Bora Bora will certainly be memorable!
On your final day you'll be taken to the airport where you'll check in for the 50 minute flight back to the main island of Tahiti to connect with your onward travel plans.
The best time to visit French Polynesia is during the dry winter period between May and October when the weather is fresher, and there is much less rainfall. From November to April temperatures rise and the summer rainy season begins, bringing humid, cloudy weather and lots of rain. Over this period, it’s not uncommon to experience brief violent storms or rains lasting a few days at a time. Peak season is July and August, as well as Christmas and the Easter school holidays so expect prices to be at a premium.
This itinerary is purely a suggestion and can be tailor-made to your requirements, so please contact us with your dates and requests, and we’ll put together a bespoke quotation for you.