2 Best Sights in The Other Islands, French Polynesia

About 500 people live on the island in two villages: Omoa, which has a simple but beautiful Catholic church, and the even smaller Hanavave. Many of the inhabitants carry dramatic tattoos in the local tradition and proudly display them to visitors. The islanders are legendary for their generosity and friendship, and if necessary it's perhaps best to repay this generosity with gifts rather than cash.

Only 4.8 km (3 mi) of sea separate the villages but land access is by a 16-km (10-mi) narrow path that winds over the mountains. Walking this can take around four to five hours—getting around is not an easy option.

Vaiee-Nui Falls are in the valley behind Hanavave. The journey is described by some as an easy walk of around an hour but it must be remembered that rain is frequent on Fatu Hiva, and a muddy path can turn the easy walk into a tough hike. If you make the trip, be sure to take swimming gear; the pool at the base of the falls simply calls out for a swim.