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Musée de Tahiti et des Îles: A Cultural Journey Through Polynesian History

Discover Polynesian heritage at the Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, with exhibits blending history, art, and culture in a beautiful setting.

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The Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, or Museum of Tahiti and The Islands, is French Polynesia's national museum, located in Puna'auia, Tahiti. Founded in 1974, the museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting French Polynesia's cultural heritage. With a range of exhibits and educational events, the museum offers a fascinating dive into Oceanic cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Museum of Tahiti and The Islands

  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and more personal interaction with the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and the museum's surroundings.
  • Explore the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs crafted by local artists.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the museum via public transport from Papeete, take the bus towards Puna'auia. Buses depart frequently from Papeete. Ask the driver to drop you off near the museum on Punavai Street. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum. The bus fare is approximately 200-300 XPF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Papeete. A taxi from Papeete to the museum typically costs between 2,500 and 3,500 XPF, depending on traffic and the time of day. Ensure the driver knows the destination: Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, Puna'auia.

  • Car

    If driving from Papeete, follow the main road (Route 1) towards the west coast of Tahiti. Continue onto Route 1, following signs for Puna'auia. Turn onto Punavai Street upon reaching Puna'auia. The museum is on the left at 380354 Punavai. Parking is available near the museum.

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Discover more about Museum of Tahiti and The Islands

The Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, also known as Te Fare Iamanaha, is a treasure trove of Polynesian history and culture. Located in Puna'auia, about 15 km from Papeete, the museum offers visitors a deep dive into the traditions, art, and history of the islands. Founded in 1974, the museum's mission is to conserve and restore Polynesian artifacts and cultural practices. The museum is located on a nearly 4-hectare plot at Fishermen's Point, near the mouth of the Punaruu River, offering stunning views of Tahiti's lagoon and Moorea Island. The museum is divided into four sections, each with a distinct focus: geography and natural history, pre-European culture, the effects of colonization, and natural wonders. The permanent exhibition hall houses a vast collection of ethnographic objects, mainly from French Polynesia and other regions of Oceania. Visitors can explore ancient artifacts, contemporary works of art, movable objects, and natural collections. Highlights include rare art carvings and historical artifacts. The museum also has a herbarium of French Polynesia, with an online database. The museum often hosts workshops and cultural events, providing visitors the chance to engage with local artisans and learn about traditional practices. The grounds include a large garden by the sea and an ethnobotanical trail.

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