How do the Air Tahiti passes work?
Considering the number of people contacting me in private regarding their itinerary between the Polynesian islands, it seemed quite relevant for me to explain the different possibilities made available by Air Tahiti. This article is written as of November 2018. I will try to check every year to see if things change with the company, especially with the arrival of possible competition in 2019 on the Polynesian islands.
I have already written a lot about Polynesian territory, about the things to do, when to leave, and about the various islands I have had the opportunity to visit. However, I am now realizing that the travel possibilities with the Air Tahiti Passes are not very clear for people. This is the main reason for this article. If you are looking for a rental car for your holiday, the best prices are here!
Remember that you are bound to plan, when buying your Pass, all the islands you will visit and on what dates. This is clearly the main disadvantage of the Pass!

First, I present you in detail with the different Inter-Island possibilities existing on Polynesian territory, summarizing the key points and things to take into account for your itinerary. I then give you my opinion on each Pass and if it is right for you according to your travel desires. I won’t give you ideas of itineraries (I have already done so in the article quoted in the intro), even if I could give you some personal opinions about Islands with Passes!
While I was sharing the release of this new article on my Instagram account, someone rightly pointed out to me, that if you try to go to the airtahiti.pf site to see all the Passes, you will automatically be redirected to the .en version of the site. It is mostly the same, but to be fair there are still some small differences I’d like to note:
- Prices are about 50 to 100€ higher depending on the Pass on the site .en than on the site .pf. After contacting the Air Tahiti agency and after having also received other information from people living abroad, I can confirm 2 things: you pay what they call a “tourist price” while locally, we pay a resident price. Another explanation is that you are entitled to a baggage allowance of 23 Kg, whereas locally, we are limited to 10Kg. These are the reasons for the price difference,
- It would seem that the “Moana Pass” is not accessible on the .en version of Air Tahiti. I don’t know why, I haven’t got the information yet. If someone from the company reads this, don’t hesitate to explain it to me,
- Finally, the last notable difference I found. In the “Marquesas” extension, you pay more depending on the number of islands you visit, whereas here locally, no matter how many islands you visit, the price remains the same. On the .en, there is about a 100€ difference if you visit 4 islands instead of just two…Go figure…
While I was sharing the release of this new article on my Instagram account, someone rightly pointed out to me, that if you try to go to the airtahiti.pf site to see all the Passes, you will automatically be redirected to the .en version of the site. It is mostly the same, but to be fair there are still some small differences I’d like to note:
- Prices are about 50 to 100€ higher depending on the Pass on the site .en than on the site .pf. After contacting the Air Tahiti agency and after having also received other information from people living abroad, I can confirm 2 things: you pay what they call a “tourist price” while locally, we pay a resident price. Another explanation is that you are entitled to a baggage allowance of 23 Kg, whereas locally, we are limited to 10Kg. These are the reasons for the price difference,
- It would seem that the “Moana Pass” is not accessible on the .en version of Air Tahiti. I don’t know why, I haven’t got the information yet. If someone from the company reads this, don’t hesitate to explain it to me,
- Finally, the last notable difference I found. In the “Marquesas” extension, you pay more depending on the number of islands you visit, whereas here locally, no matter how many islands you visit, the price remains the same. On the .en, there is about a 100€ difference if you visit 4 islands instead of just two…Go figure…
For all those who want to book their activities in Polynesia before going on a trip, I advise you to take a look at this site which offers a lot of local activities. Don’t wait too long to book because some activities fill up very quickly!
Why use the Air Tahiti Inter-Island Passes in French Polynesia?
I know that most people who don’t know the Polynesian territory imagine that the white sand, coconut beaches, and the postcards with the idyllic setting, is on the island of Tahiti. This name, although evocative to many people’s ears, is ultimately only the main island of Polynesia. Not wanting to denigrate the island of Tahiti, but the island isn’t much visited and the majority of tourists fly to the famous “Bora Bora – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Moorea”.
In other words, and I speak with full knowledge of the facts, having lived here for more than 3 years at the time of writing this article, if you decide to come on a trip to French Polynesia, you must leave Tahiti to see the other islands and archipelagos. Everyone will adapt their trip according to their desires and budget, but to only visit Tahiti would obviously be a mistake. Who wants to travel the world, cross 1 or 2 oceans to see only Tahiti and miss some very beautiful treasures?


So why take an Air Tahiti Pass. I see two main reasons:
- If you go to the islands, it is the cheapest solution for the majority of travelers who spend little time in French Polynesia. Why the majority? Because the cheapest way to travel Polynesia is actually by boat. But many do not have the time or even the desire,
- Well, you don’t have much choice. Air Tahiti has a monopoly on all the Polynesian islands. Between us, I hope that the arrival of low-cost airlines (Frenchbee or United) will bring tourism and that finally, the Polynesian government, currently a shareholder in the company at around 15%, will leave opportunities for all companies that want to compete with Air Tahiti! In the meantime, you have no choice… No company has managed to establish itself yet… but it may perhaps evolve, who knows?
To keep in mind for all Air Tahiti Passes + Extensions
Let’s get to it. The company offers a total of 8 passes and two extensions.
I know that some of this information is on the Air Tahiti website, but I have tried to summarize as best I can on what to remember in regard to the Passes (and I know that not everyone will have the courage to read the whole thing…). The elements below are valid regardless of the Pass you choose.
General (with some exceptions):
- There is no Air Tahiti Pass for babies (under 2 years old) since it is free. In fact, to be more precise, babies pay airport taxes. It should be noted that they also do not have a baggage allowance up to 2 years old. The prices are almost half price until 12 years old,
- You can only visit an island once and to return to Tahiti during the Pass is impossible,
- There is no order of passage for visiting the islands as long as there are available flights,
- The duration of an Air Tahiti Pass is valid for 28 days (date of departure as proof),
- You will have to choose which islands you want to visit with the associated dates, before buying the pass,
- Most Passes start from Tahiti or Moorea,
- You do have the obligation to visit at least 2 islands on a Pass,
- You will notice that several islands, only accessible by boat (Tahaa, Tahuata, Fatu Hiva) are not included in the passes. You can of course go there by your own means within the framework of an Inter-Island Pass. I recently visited the atoll of Ahé for example.
- There are “high and low season” prices (but the price difference is small),
- The islands of the same archipelago must be visited together as part of a Pass including another archipelago (it’s impossible to do part of the Leeward Islands (LI) then go to Tuamotu to return to the LI).

Transit, stopovers and extensions
- Only the “Pass Lagon” allows a stopover in Tahiti between Moorea and the Tuamotu,
- You can stop in Tahiti for a maximum of 24 hours between a Pass and an extension (Marquesas/Australes),
- It’s impossible to buy an extension alone,
- You can’t use an extension in the middle of a Pass.
Modifications/cancellations/refunds
- Passes can only be modified before your departure (after issue) with an additional charge of 2000xpf (16€),
- Passes can be refunded 48 hours before departure. A refund fee of 1000 to 1500 xpf (8 to 13€) is charged,
- After the departure of the Pass, no refund is possible.
Details of the Air Tahiti Passes / Extensions and my opinions
Here, I offer the details of all the Air Tahiti Passes and extensions. I give you a personal opinion based on my years of travel experience in the Polynesian Islands. I specify for each one the price of the Pass (average in euros) for (Adult/child), up to end 2018. Refer to the site to be sure of prices in case of updating.
For each Pass, the Air Tahiti website offers (prices below), a list of recommended itineraries. It might help you a little bit for your preparation.



The Moana Pass (300€ / None)
- 4 islands served: Huahine, Raiatea, Bora Bora, Moorea,
- Only for adults (…),
- Specific booking classes,
- Impossible to combine with an extension.
This is the “poor man’s” Pass in French Polynesia, no I’m kidding, but it’s one of the cheapest passes. For those with a limited budget in Polynesia, it is a very good solution to discover the “nearby” Leeward Islands. However, what isn’t available with this Pass is the beautiful island of Maupiti, it is a pity but it is done on purpose, I believe. To visit it, you’ll have to choose the Bora Bora Pass, which will cost you a little bit more (about 60€/person). This is discussed below.
This pass allows you to discover the high islands and the postcard (Bora Bora) for those who are looking for a superb lagoon with crystal clear waters. On the agenda: superb lagoons, snorkeling, hiking. The disadvantage of this Pass is that you do not visit any atoll or remote islands. However, if you have a limited budget, you can discover Tetiaroa atoll from Tahiti Island, in only 2h30 by catamaran. By the way, I’m offering you 10% with Poe Charter in Tetiaroa, tempted?
Here are some examples of possible itineraries with the Moana Pass. For the islands in brackets, you can switch them for your itinerary according to your preferences! There is no wrong/good choice….
Itinerary 2 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea / Raiatea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
Itinerary 3 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Moorea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – Bora Bora – Moorea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – Huahine – Moorea – Tahiti
Itinerary 4 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – (Huahine / Bora Bora) – Moorea – Tahiti
Here are some examples of possible itineraries with the Moana Pass. For the islands in brackets, you can switch them for your itinerary according to your preferences! There is no wrong/good choice….
Itinerary 2 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea / Raiatea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
Itinerary 3 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Huahine) – Moorea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – Bora Bora – Moorea – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – Huahine – Moorea – Tahiti
Itinerary 4 islands with the Moana Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raiatea – (Huahine / Bora Bora) – Moorea – Tahiti
The Ninamu and discovery passes (290€ / 185€)
These are the two cheapest passes and I must admit that the Air Tahiti website is not clear.
- 3 islands served: Huahine, Raiatea et Moorea,
- The Ninamu Pass is not available for children,
- It would seem that the conditions of the Ninamu Pass are the same as the Moana Pass for only 3 islands (no extension possible for example).
With only 3 islands including Moorea accessible by boat for a low price, I don’t think these 2 passes are really that interesting. The latter is cheaper but does not allow access to Bora Bora, which will discourage many tourists. No possibility to see Maupiti either obviously at that price.
Finally, I would encourage you to take the Moana Pass for more or less the same price, knowing that you can go for a ride to Bora. However, the pass allows you to discover 3 high islands of the Leeward Islands and Moorea lagoon. Huahine and Raiatea will be more “land-oriented” than “sea-oriented” as a general rule (although there are beautiful spots on the water in both islands).

The Bora Bora Pass (360€ / 225€)
Here is an interesting Air Tahiti Pass but which still limits your access to the classic Leeward Islands.
- 5 islands served: it is the equivalent of the Moana Pass + Maupiti Island, it is the only real difference,
- The combination with an extension is possible.
With only a 60€ difference with the Moana Pass, the Air Tahiti Bora Bora Pass gives you access to, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful islands in Polynesia: Maupiti. It’s hard not to recommend that you choose this Pass over the Moana one.
You still have no access to the Tuamotu atolls. However, you have the possibility to extend to the Marquesas or the Australes to discover some remote islands. It is in my opinion a great Pass for a nice glimpse of Polynesia, but you miss an atoll (for diving) and the remote islands. That’s a bit of a shame, in my opinion. A perfect pass for “small budgets”, those with limited time and for those who do not wish to dive (turn to the Bora Bora – Tuamotu Pass otherwise).
Below are some examples of itineraries with the Bora Bora Pass. The islands in brackets can be reversed during the stay!
Itinerary 2 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Maupiti) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Raiatea / Maupiti) – Tahiti
Itinerary 3 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea – Huahine / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Raiatea or Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Raiatea / Maupiti) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Maupiti – Raiatea – Huahine – Tahiti
Itinerary 4 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Huahine – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
Itinerary 5 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Maupiti –(Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Huahine – Moorea – Tahiti
Below are some examples of itineraries with the Bora Bora Pass. The islands in brackets can be reversed during the stay!
Itinerary 2 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Maupiti) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Raiatea / Maupiti) – Tahiti
Itinerary 3 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea – Huahine / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Raiatea or Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Bora Bora / Raiatea / Maupiti) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Maupiti – Raiatea – Huahine – Tahiti
Itinerary 4 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – (Bora Bora / Raiatea) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Huahine – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
Itinerary 5 islands with the Bora Bora Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea / Huahine) – (Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Maupiti – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Maupiti –(Raiatea / Bora Bora) – Huahine – Moorea – Tahiti
The Lagon Pass (370€ / 225€)
Here is a very interesting Pass, from my point of view, for those who are more “sea” oriented.
- 4 islands served: Moorea, Rangiroa, Tikehau, Fakarava,
- Combination with possible extension.
It is a perfect Pass for people who are more interested in sea than land. Of course, you can see Moorea and do some hiking, but it is clearly a scuba diving / snorkeling oriented Pass.
This pass allows you to discover the 3 atolls proposed in the Pass including the Tuamotu. If you are a fan of white sand, coconut palms, discovering underwater fauna, all in an idyllic setting, you will not be disappointed. For those who want to walk and enjoy the heights, don’t choose this pass.


The Coral Pass (370€ / 225€)
This is an original Pass for fans of diving and discovering places off the beaten track. You should know that very few tourists set foot on these 2 atolls.
- 2 atolls of the Tuamotus served: Ahe and Manihi.
It is clearly a Pass for those who do not want to follow the crowd. Away from mass tourism and classic tours, these two atolls are renowned for their underwater backdrop, the beauty of the area and their authenticity. This is an opportunity to discover the life of the Paumotu (the people of the Tuamotu atolls). Of course, you will have to like three things: the sea, scuba diving and white sandy beaches. There will be nothing more to do than that…
The Bora Bora - Tuamotu Pass (500€ / 310€)
We are clearly moving up in price range here but also in diversity. This is the only pass offering the discovery of two archipelagos. The 140€ more than a classic Bora Bora Pass is clearly justified:
- 8 islands served,
- It is the equivalent of a Bora Bora Pass + 3 atolls of the Tuamotu (Fakarava, Rangiroa, Tikehau).
This is probably the most purchased Pass at Air Tahiti, althoughI haven’t checked. It may cost a little bit more, but it offers a lot more possibilities. On the agenda: the discovery of the high islands (Huahine, Raiatea), superb lagoons (Moorea, Maupiti, Bora) and a diver’s paradise (Rangiroa, Fakarava).
If you can afford it, it is clearly a Pass that I recommend 100%. Even more, you can ideally include an extension to the Marquesas or Australes to complete your trip in. For me: “the further you get from Tahiti, the more you will find authentic islands, close to what you imagined from Polynesia”.

Here are some itinerary ideas for the Bora Bora – Tuamotu Pass, the one I consider to be the most interesting personally. Islands in brackets can be switched. Beware of islands with “or” in the itineraries. These are not islands that you can reverse but islands where you have to make a choice (if you limit yourself to a number of islands).
For information, it is possible to go from the Leeward Islands archipelago directly to the Tuamotu atolls. This is only possible from the island of Raiatea and Bora Bora only. Of course, the interest of this Pass is to go to Maupiti but also to the atolls of the Tuamotu. I therefore recommend a minimum of 5 islands. No point in only visiting 2 or 3 islands with this Pass.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – (Rangiroa or Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Rangiroa – (Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea or Huahine or Raiatea or Maupiti) – Bora Bora – (Rangiroa or Tikehau or Fakarava) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – [Huahine or Raiatea] – Bora Bora – [Rangiroa or Tikehau or Fakarava] – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 5 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea or Huahine ou Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
- Tahiti (Maupiti / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – (Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Rangiroa – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 6 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – Raiatea – Maupiti – Bora Bora – (Tikehau or Fakarava) – Rangiroa – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 7 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – Raiatea – Maupiti – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
Here are some itinerary ideas for the Bora Bora – Tuamotu Pass, the one I consider to be the most interesting personally. Islands in brackets can be switched. Beware of islands with “or” in the itineraries. These are not islands that you can reverse but islands where you have to make a choice (if you limit yourself to a number of islands).
For information, it is possible to go from the Leeward Islands archipelago directly to the Tuamotu atolls. This is only possible from the island of Raiatea and Bora Bora only. Of course, the interest of this Pass is to go to Maupiti but also to the atolls of the Tuamotu. I therefore recommend a minimum of 5 islands. No point in only visiting 2 or 3 islands with this Pass.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – (Rangiroa or Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Rangiroa – (Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – (Moorea or Huahine or Raiatea or Maupiti) – Bora Bora – (Rangiroa or Tikehau or Fakarava) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – [Huahine or Raiatea] – Bora Bora – [Rangiroa or Tikehau or Fakarava] – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 5 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – (Moorea or Huahine ou Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
- Tahiti (Maupiti / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – (Tikehau ou Fakarava) – Rangiroa – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 6 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – Raiatea – Maupiti – Bora Bora – (Tikehau or Fakarava) – Rangiroa – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 7 islands with the Bora Bora Tuamotu Pass
- Tahiti – Moorea – (Huahine / Raiatea) – Bora Bora – Tikehau – Rangiroa – Fakarava – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Moorea – Raiatea – Maupiti – Bora Bora – Fakarava – Rangiroa – Tikehau – Tahiti
The Australes Pass (500€ / 310€)
Here we discover a Pass in which very few people (wrongly?) are interested in. Rimatara or Rurutu, clearly speak less to people than Bora Bora or Fakarava.
- 4 islands served: Rurutu, Raivavae, Rimatara,Tubuai.
I’m a little biased here because it’s an archipelago I really love. Why? Its freshness, its charm, its welcoming and authentic population, its magnificent landscapes, its white sandy beaches without tourists, its whales during the season. In short, it is an archipelago that I adore, and I have had the opportunity to visit 3 of the 4 islands proposed in the Pass on several occasions. If you are looking for an authentic Polynesia, far from the classic tours, it is the perfect destination. Be careful with the weather in the middle of winter, it can be cool in the evening and at night (10/15° – 50-60 F°). The beaches on the motus of the island of Raivavae clearly make the beaches of Bora Bora pale in comparison, or almost, in my opinion. As a bonus, there is no one, no jet skis, no tourist boats, no restaurants…what more could you ask for?
To explore all the islands of the Australes Archipelago, there is nothing better than a Australes Pass. If you want to discover the 4 islands, the possibilities will be limited but it is clearly worth it in my opinion! The “or” in the itineraries means that you have to choose between the two islands.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – Rurutu – (Tubuai or Rimatara) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Tubuai – (Rurutu or Raivavae) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raivavae – Tubuai – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rimatara – Rurutu – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – Tubuai – Rurutu –Rimatara – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rurutu – Tubuai – Raivavae – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raivavae – Tubuai – Rurutu – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rimatara – Rurutu – Tubuai – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – (Monday) – Raivavae – (Wednesday except some dates) – Tubuai – (Friday) – Rurutu – (Monday) – Rimatara – (Wednesday) – Tahiti
To explore all the islands of the Australes Archipelago, there is nothing better than a Australes Pass. If you want to discover the 4 islands, the possibilities will be limited but it is clearly worth it in my opinion! The “or” in the itineraries means that you have to choose between the two islands.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – Rurutu – (Tubuai or Rimatara) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Tubuai – (Rurutu or Raivavae) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raivavae – Tubuai – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rimatara – Rurutu – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – Tubuai – Rurutu –Rimatara – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rurutu – Tubuai – Raivavae – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Raivavae – Tubuai – Rurutu – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Rimatara – Rurutu – Tubuai – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Australes Pass
- Tahiti – (Monday) – Raivavae – (Wednesday except some dates) – Tubuai – (Friday) – Rurutu – (Monday) – Rimatara – (Wednesday) – Tahiti
The Marquesas Pass (700€ / 420€)
Who has never heard of the Marquesas Islands? Brel and Gauguin fell in love there! Here is one of my favorite’s archipelago, well deserved.
- 4 islands served: Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva, Ua Huka, Ua Pou.
It’s the most expensive Pass and for good reason. Located about 1600 km north of Tahiti Island, the Marquesas Islands are one of the 5 archipelagos lost in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Once again, it’s all about budget (and choices) but discovering the Marquesas remains, I think, an experience to be done once in a lifetime.
This is the closest thing (with the Gambier archipelago) to “real Polynesia”, the one I had in mind before I came to live here. The islands have truly retained an incredible authenticity, richness and culture, far from the developed islands of the Society. If you are looking for breathtaking scenery, a great culture and an endearing population, you are on the right Pass.
I personally know 5 of the Marquesas islands: Hiva Oa (many times), Tahuata, Ua Pou, Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva. These are timeless islands where you can clearly live the ‘goodlife’. Please note that from Hiva Oa, you can now travel to Tahuata and Fatu Hiva (excluding the Air Tahiti Pass) by a municipal shuttle. I explain all this in the article on transport to and from the Marquesas Islands.


The Marquesas archipelago is my favorite archipelago in French Polynesia I think! There is nothing better than a Marquesas Pass to discover the islands. Just remember that only 4 islands are accessible via an airport: Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Pou and Ua Huka. You can go to the island of Tahuata and Fatu Hiva on the Southern Marquesas, but on your own (communal shuttle or local fisherman’s boat). Islands with a “or”, you must choose between the two.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – Nuku Hiva – (Hiva Oa or Ua Huka or Ua Pou) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Hiva Oa – (Nuku Hiva or Uap Pou or Ua Huka) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Ua Huka – (Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa or Ua Pou) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Ua Pou – (Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa or Ua Huka) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – Hiva Oa – (Ua Huka or Ua Pou) – Nuku Hiva – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – (Nuku Hiva / Ua pou / Ua Huka / Hiva Oa) – Tahiti
The Marquesas archipelago is my favorite archipelago in French Polynesia I think! There is nothing better than a Marquesas Pass to discover the islands. Just remember that only 4 islands are accessible via an airport: Nuku Hiva, Hiva Oa, Ua Pou and Ua Huka. You can go to the island of Tahuata and Fatu Hiva on the Southern Marquesas, but on your own (communal shuttle or local fisherman’s boat). Islands with a “or”, you must choose between the two.
Recommended itineraries for 2 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – Nuku Hiva – (Hiva Oa or Ua Huka or Ua Pou) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Hiva Oa – (Nuku Hiva or Uap Pou or Ua Huka) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Ua Huka – (Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa or Ua Pou) – Tahiti
- Tahiti – Ua Pou – (Nuku Hiva or Hiva Oa or Ua Huka) – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 3 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – Hiva Oa – (Ua Huka or Ua Pou) – Nuku Hiva – Tahiti
Recommended itineraries for 4 islands with the Marquesas Pass
- Tahiti – (Nuku Hiva / Ua pou / Ua Huka / Hiva Oa) – Tahiti
The Australes and Marquises extensions
For those wishing to get lost outside the classic Polynesian circuits, here are the types of routes possible: visit the Australes and Marquesas Islands with an extension from Air Tahiti.
However, it would cost you more because extensions cannot be purchased alone. They must be taken with a Pass and can be done either before or after it.
Rates:
- Australes extension: 300 € / 190€
- Marquises extension: 520€ / 305€
It will be necessary to calculate this clearly and evaluate your total budget here. It’s expensive in addition to a Pass, and many around the world travelers will not be able to afford both. In any case, believe me when I say that if you’re looking for authenticity, you won’t be disappointed coming to the Marquesas or the Australes.
In addition to this article about Air Tahiti Passes, I suggest you have look on the article on transportation in French Polynesia for more information.
I hope that this article has helped in clarifying things in your head and that things are now clear for the preparation of your trip to Polynesia.
If despite this detailed article, you still find things unclear, inaccuracies or if you have any questions, please feel free to leave me a comment at the bottom of the article.
Have a good trip,
This was wonderful information which I just came upon while in Rangiroa and set to leave for Papeete tomorrow! But I hope we will return and see more of the islands before they all sink into the ocean! What would be your idea of a”perfect” trip to FP using the Tahiti pass? And how many days minimum would you need to experience it?
Sorry for the late reply, we’re working on releasing our own travel guide, on French for now. I would say 3 weeks is great: 1 in Tuamotu, 1 in Society island and maybe 1 in Marquesas 😊
Thank you for your information. We are putting together a last minute trip for July- august. We are looking at buying the Bora plus Tuomotu pass. We are there for a full 14 days. Original plan was for maupiti, then , tahaa, Raietea and Bora on a catamaran (part of this helps with transport) then Fakarava. We then switched to Huahine instead of Maupiti due to flights. We are 4 people. Trying to work through the website, but just doesn’t want to work. Tried to call the airline. Do they actually pick up? Thank you.
They sometimes pick up but their website is a mess and it’s always quite difficult sadly….
Hello.
We want to buy the Bora-bora Tuamotu pass and visit Moorea-Raiatea-Maupiti-BoraBora-Fakarava-Rangiroa and Tikehau.
Will It be possible un 12 days? Or is it too rush?
Should we let pass any of those islands?
Thanks for your help!!
Hi,
It will be much to rush for sure and you’ll mostly see nothing on each islands this way. You can count a half day lost if you’re considering the time to be at the airport, the fly, etc. Same when you go back. For only 12 days, I will recommend only 3 to 4 islands, max.
Hi there,
I have a question regarding the Bora Bora pass. Could I do this route: starting in Tahiti -> Bora Bora -> Moorea -> Tahiti?
Hi,
Yes I do think so.
Sylvain
Thanks for this summary! We are planning an October trip.
Questions:
1. If we want to save Bora Bora for last, can we do Tahiti-Tikehau-Rangiroa-Bora-Bora with the BB-Tuamotu pass?
1A: Their website does not show direct options from Rangiroa to BB. Do you just plan to fly back to Tahiti and catch the next plane that does not exceed 24 hours?
1B: Alternatively, can we do Tahiti-Moorea-Tikehau-Rangiroa-BB?
2. I see Air Tahiti’s schedule changes next in April–do you know how significantly it will differ from current? I’m waiting to book dates based on Air Tahiti flight options.
3. In your opinion:
A. Are Tikehau and Rangiroa different enough to go to both?
B. If you love whales, can you see them well enough in Moorea, or must you go to Rurutu?
Thanks so much!
Hi Mei-Mei,
sorry, your email was in my spam box.
To answer you:
1 – I’m not sure you’ll found Rangiroa to Bora Bora flights. To my knowledge, the only way to go from the Leeward islands to the Tuamotu archipelago is through a flight Bora Bora -> Rangiroa. I’m pretty sure the other way doesn’t exist. Plus, with the Covid19, a lot of flights have been reduced or canceled as there’s almost no tourists anymore sadly. If I remember correctly, you cannot go back to Tahiti during a pass.
2 – I know it’s changing in April but sadly I have no idea how significantly it will defer from the one now.
3 – yes they’re different. I traveled to both atolls, and I would say that Tikehau is quieter, smaller than Rangiroa, which is more famous for diving (like Fakarava). Of course, you’ll found almost the same things there: white sand beaches, coconut, beautiful lagoon, day trip on the lagoon, diving trip, biking around the motu, etc.
4 – If it’s the right season you can see them in Moorea of course. The only problem is how many boat there will be with you, as (sadly) Moorea is becoming more and more touristic whereas Rurutu is way calmer. Not a lot of tourists are planing to go there and you’ll may be alone on your whale trip!
Hope it can help a bit.
Sylvain
Great info,just wondering if there is no pass where u can visit all 3 huahine,maupite,fakareva as it seems every time its only a combination with 2 out of the 3 places?
Hi there,
in fact the Bora Bora – Tuamotu pass will be perfect to travel to all leeward islands and Tuamotu (Rangiroa, Fakarava and Tikehau).
Sylvain
Great job this was so much work and very well done! We are in Moorea now Visitor’s g from Canada for 4 months. The sad part is with the pass expiring in 28 days not sure how to do it. Perhaps get to the Marq, on the last day and then stay their first a few weeks and the. Pay our own way back!! Thanks again!
Hi there,
Thanks for your comment. I’m glad you liked the article. Enjoy French Polynesia then 🙂
Sylvain