Introduction to Polynesia National Parks and Nature Reserves
French Polynesia is a collection of islands scattered in the Pacific Ocean. The natural heritage of this region goes far beyond the white sand beaches and crystal clear lagoons. In French Polynesia, there are many parks And reservations which are perfect for adventure and nature lovers.
National parks and nature reserves are protected areas where the fauna and flora are preserved, allowing visitors to discover a pristine and preserved ecosystem. With its many protected areas, the Polynesia Française is the ideal place for nature aficionados.
National parks in French Polynesia: a natural wealth
It is important to note that to date, there is not really a national park in French Polynesia. However, you can discover protected areas and nature reserves.
These spaces offer a great diversity of ecosystems and allow visitors to discover the endemic flora and fauna of the region. Throughout the islands of French Polynesia, one can admire landscapes ranging from green mountains to heavenly beaches, passing through tropical rainforests and crystal clear lagoons.
The nature reserves in French Polynesia thus offer unique opportunities for researchers and nature lovers to discover a preserved and intact environment.
The main nature reserves in French Polynesia
From many nature reserves existing in French Polynesia, we can count :
Fakarava Nature Reserve
This atoll, located in the Tuamotu Archipelago, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stretches over 85 kilometers and offers a habitat that is home to 30 listed species of fauna and flora. There are colonies of gray sharks as well as endemic birds such as the tern and the red-chinned nectarine.
Scilly Nature Reserve
The Scilly Nature Reserve, located in the Gambier Islands, is home to niche biodiversity. There are endemic species such as the margouillat, the eyebrow warbler and the Gambier sheep, and even species as rare as the cousinelle. The reserve is also a breeding ground for humpback whales.
This reserve Marine is located on the atoll of Tetiaroa and has been protected since 2007. It is home to an important diversity of marine species including green turtles and manta rays.
French Polynesia, located in the Pacific Ocean, is made up of over 100 stunning islands and is home to some of the most spectacular national parks and nature reserves in the world. These parks and reserves are unique ecosystems that offer a great diversity of plants and animals, including endemic and rare species. These protected sites are also of crucial importance for the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of the cultural and historical traditions of the Polynesian peoples.
Among these national parks and natural reserves, there is the natural park of La Foa, located on the island of Tahiti, which shelters a luxuriant forest, magnificent waterfalls, and a fascinating fauna. The local fauna includes several species of sea turtles, sharks and endemic birds, such as the Tahitian Monarch, a particularly rare and endangered bird.
Another unmissable nature reserve is that of the atoll of Tetiaroa, former residence of the Polynesian royal family and today owned by the famous Brando Foundation. This atoll is an ecological paradise, where you can admire tropical birds, manta rays and humpback whales during their annual migration.
Arguably one of the most popular national parks in Polynesia is the Gambier Islands National Park, which includes the Rikitea Bay Marine Reserve. This park offers an impressive variety of habitats, ranging from rainforests to turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, home to a multitude of unique and colorful marine species.
To live from unforgettable adventures in the national parks of Polynesia, visitors can choose from a multitude of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, scuba diving and bird watching.
In short, the national parks and nature reserves of Polynesia offer nature lovers an unforgettable getaway and a unique opportunity to discover exceptional ecosystems. They also make it possible to make visitors aware of the importance of environmental protection and the richness of the biodiversity present in French Polynesia.
Moorea Sustainable Natural Resource Management Area
The biodiversity of the island of Moorea has been studied for several decades by researchers from all over the world. This area of sustainable management of natural resources extends over more than 6,000 hectares, of which 85% is emerged and 15% is submerged.
Practical information for visiting parks and reserves
There French Polynesia is accessible by plane from several cities in France metropolitan, with a stopover in Los Angeles or Auckland. Once there, it is recommended to rent a vehicle to move easily between the sites of interest. It is also possible to reach the most remote islands by taking a local plane or boat.
There are many organized tours for travelers wishing to discover the natural wonders of French Polynesia. These tours can include guided visits to parks and reserves, as well as activities such as diving, hiking or kayaking.
Conclusion: discover the jewels of nature in French Polynesia
national parks and natural reserves of Polynesia French offer the opportunity to discover unique and preserved ecosystems. Whether on land or underwater, visitors can admire the endemic flora and fauna, and thus enjoy a memorable travel experience in communion with nature.