French Polynesia
Tahitian Tradition
12 days/11 nights: June 30-July 11, 2026
Detour with Miriama
As an artist, entrepreneur, and former director of the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, my passion for this country’s traditions drives this detour. Together, we’ll explore the artistic, historic, and spiritual treasures of Polynesia—from ancestral craftsmanship to modern creations that bring the fenua (homeland) to life. We’ve chosen July to experience Heiva, French Polynesia’s most important cultural festival. This vibrant celebration of heritage features powerful drumming, ori Tahiti (dance) competitions, outrigger canoe races, and stone-lifting contests. Detour with me to witness the heart of Polynesian culture in its most dynamic form!
highlights include
Explore Papeete's colorful crafts and traditional flavors
Safari through Papenoo Valley’s Jurassic interior
Venture beyond road’s end in Fenua Aihere’s wilderness
Snorkel Mo’orea’s magnificent lagoons
Learn the craft of Tahitian cooking
Sail a traditional outrigger va’a canoe
Spot spinner dolphins from your kayak
Learn the local lore from the local experts
itinerary
“I have found a peace that I have never known before. Here, in Tahiti, in the silence of the tropical night, I live in harmony with nature.”
At the heart of Tahitian culture lies the spirit of 'aita pea, the art of "doing nothing," where time slows, and connection to the land and loved ones takes precedence. Embracing this rhythm, we’ll journey beyond the luxury resorts, diving into the traditions that shape the islands. From the vibrant crafts of Papeete to the untouched wilderness of Fenua Aihere, we’ll discover the people and landscapes that breathe life into Tahiti. We’ll safari through Papenoo Valley, master Polynesian cooking, explore Mo’orea’s magnificant lagoons, sail on traditional va’a, and connect with locals to uncover the deep-rooted heritage of this enchanting land.
Day 1: Maeva i Tahiti!
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Maeva! Welcome to Tahiti! Our journey begins in Punaauia, a scenic coastal town just 15 minutes from the Papeete airport. As we arrive, we’ll settle into our seaside accommodations, letting the island’s warm breeze ease us into the rhythm of Tahitian life. In the evening, we’ll gather by the pool for a casual welcome drink and light snack, getting to know one another as we soak in our first sunset in paradise. With the excitement of tomorrow’s exploration in Papeete ahead, we’ll turn in early, ensuring we’re well-rested and ready to embrace the adventures that await.
Hotel: Te Moana Tahiti | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: Arrival drink & snack
day 2: Faces of Papeete
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
This morning, we dive into the vibrant heart of Papeete, where the streets are filled with the warmth and passion of locals eager to share their culture. As we wander, we’ll encounter the rich traditions, art, and way of life that make this city so unique, tasting local specialties along the way and learning from the stories of the people who shape its energy. After a free afternoon to relax by the pool or on the beach, we’ll indulge in a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience with Tereva, a talented local chef who expertly combines refined French techniques with seasonal Polynesian ingredients, offering a perfect blend of flavors and an unforgettable taste of Tahiti.
Hotel: Te Moana Tahiti | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, D
day 3: Papenoo Valley Safari
Thursday, July 2, 2026
Teiva, a passionate local guide from Papenoo, leads us on a 4x4 safari into Tahiti’s Jurassic heart, where towering cliffs drip with waterfalls and history runs deep. With roots entwined in this land, he retraces the paths of his ancestors, weaving stories that bring the island’s past to life. Through Teiva’s eyes, we’ll feel the pulse of Tahiti’s wild interior, guided by his knowledge, passion, and deep love for his homeland. Back at our pension, the evening is yours to enjoy a sundowner (sunset cocktail) and explore the local roulette—food truck—scene in Punaauia.
Hotel: Te Moana Tahiti | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L
day 4: Museum of Tahiti
Friday, July 3, 2026
We’ll step back in time today at the Museum of Tahiti - Te Fare ‘Ia Manaha, where our guide Miriama, a key figure in Polynesian heritage, leads us through its treasures. Former director of the museum, artist, and passionate historian, Miriama brings the depth of Polynesian culture to life through her captivating stories. The visit continues with a refined picnic in the museum’s gardens, where we’ll enjoy delicacies prepared by talented local caterers, all while overlooking the stunning island of Moorea. This afternoon we head to Tahiti Iti, home of the famed Teahupoo wave and surf town we’ll call home for the next three nights.
Hotel: Terehanui Teahupoo | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L
day 5: Polynesia of Yesteryear
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Hervé, a skilled sailor, captivating storyteller of Polynesian legends, and passionate hiker, invites us today to experience Polynesia through his eyes. In this authentic immersion, we’ll explore his lush garden, filled with endemic plants boasting unique and healing properties. We’ll take a refreshing dip in both the sea and a river, embracing the island’s natural beauty. As we gather around for a traditional 'ava tasting, we’ll engage in deep, meaningful conversations with Hervé, who shares his insights into Polynesian culture. The evening is yours to ponder Polynesia’s past over a sundowner on the beach or pop into Teahupoo to vibe with the local surf scene.
Hotel: Terehanui Teahupoo | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L
day 6: Fenua Aihere by Boat
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Located on the island's southern tip, the "Land beloved of the gods" (Fenua here hia te atua) remains untouched by roads. Known as the last wilderness on Tahiti, it is home to two villages—Teahupoo and Tautira. The virgin forests in between still conceal ancient marae, sacred ceremonial spaces where Polynesian rites were performed. Fenua Aihere is a place where mana, the supernatural power of nature, still flows, making it a deeply spiritual and mystical land. Today we take to the water to explore this wild coast, enjoying fascinating tales of local legends and unforgettable moments in the heart of untouched nature.
Hotel: Terehanui Teahupoo | Activity Level: Strenuous | Meals: B, L
day 7: Mo’orea Migration
Monday, July 6, 2026
We say Nānā (bye bye) to Tahiti and ferry across the strait to her little sister, Mo’orea. Mo'orea is renowned for its dramatic landscape, with jagged peaks like Mount Rotui and stunning bays, including Opunohu and Cook's Bays. Its volcanic origins offer a rugged contrast to its serene lagoons. The island is a haven for biodiversity, with vibrant coral reefs and unique land species like the tiare flower. Mo'orea's cultural richness shines through in its ancient marae and traditional practices, such as Tahitian dance and the art of preparing "tā'imi" feasts. We’ll tuck into our beach bungalows on the west side of the island in time to enjoy our first of many jaw-dropping sunsets.
Hotel: Niu Beach Hotel | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B
day 8: Corals for our lagoons
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Mo’orea's lagoons, known as some of the most beautiful in the world, serve as a sanctuary for a vibrant underwater ecosystem, teeming with multicolored fish, astonishing algae, and vibrant corals. To truly immerse ourselves in this magical world, we’ll join a naturalist for a guided exploration, either on foot along the shoreline or by snorkeling beneath the surface. As we dive into the crystal-clear waters, we'll learn about marine biology, observe the fascinating diversity of marine life, and even collecting data on coral health. This afternoon we’ll unwind beach side or take a kayak out for further marine exploration.
Hotel: Niu Beach Hotel | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B, L
day 9: Tahitian Cooking
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Tahitian cooking is a vibrant fusion of fresh local ingredients, where fish, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices come together to create bold, unforgettable flavors. We’ll join the Atunu Mai Mo’orea Culinary where we’ll immerse in Tahitian culinary tradition. Surrounded by a lush tropical garden, we’ll enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with all the ingredients and equipment provided. Afterward, we’ll savor the dishes we've prepared in an elegant setting, surrounded by vibrant colors, fresh fish, organic vegetables, and the rich flavor of Tahitian vanilla. This afternoon we’ll rest and digest with plenty of time to explore neighboring beaches or hike off our lunch.
Hotel: Niu Beach Hotel | Activity Level: Light | Meals: B, L
day 10: Dolphins & Horizons
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Today we’ll spend a fun-filled morning learning the technical art of va’a sailing while gaining insight into the lives of the island’s majestic marine megafauna. Born from a unique collaboration between va’a professionals, Polynesian pirogue sailors, and cetacean-loving scientists, this experience immerses us in the rich maritime heritage of Polynesia. As we explore the waters, we may be lucky enough to encounter a school of playful dolphins or even a family of humpback whales. The afternoon is open for you to hit the trails, splash in the lagoon, or shop till your drop at Moorea’s boutique clothing and pearl shops. Did someone say sundowner?
Hotel: Niu Beach Hotel | Activity Level: Moderate | Meals: B
day 11: Mo’orea free day
Friday, July 10, 2026
The day is yours to choose your own adventure. Relax on the pristine beaches, explore Mo’orea’s interior by ATV, grab a table at Coco Beach and snorkel the Jardin de Coral, join a jet scooter snorkeling excursion, or embark on a lagoon boat tour to shark and ray alley. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to Magic Mountain or the Three Pines to swing above the Belvedere Lookout. In the evening, we’ll regroup for a final sundowner followed by our last night feast together, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Hotel: Niu Beach Hotel | Activity Level: Your Choice | Meals: B, D
day 12: La ora na, Mo’orea
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Our journey comes to an end this morning. As we’ve barely scratched the surface of French Polynesia’s 118 islands, you may want to extend your stay on Mo’orea, jet off to a neighboring Society island, or explore the remote Tuamotus or the wild Marquesas. If you’re state-side bound, we’ll arrange return transport via ferry to Papeete where you’ll have plenty of time for last minute shopping before catching your evening flight home. Wherever you go, we wish you “la ora na” (may you be well) and look forward to our next detour together!
Due to the cultural and ecological sensitivity of the destination, this detour is limited to 14 travelers to ensure a respectful, low-impact experience that honors both people and place.
$7,995 per person (double occupancy only)
10% deposit
Save $300 with EARLYPAY coupon until October 30
FAQs
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Each detour includes the price of all admissions to sights seen as a group; tours by local guides, meals as listed in the trip itinerary; accommodations each night of the detour including breakfasts; all domestic flights; all transportation required for group activities from the first hotel to the last hotel of the detour including in er-country flights (transportation for optional group activities and independent travel during the detour is not included), travel consultations and advice from our staff, guides, and vendors including suggestions, tips, and directions, and all trip leader, local guide, driver, and hotel tips. Prices do not include airfare to and from the detour, nor ground transportation to/from airports.
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Detour prices do not include international airfare or ground transportation to/from the airport.
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Each detour includes all breakfasts and about half of your lunches and dinners as indicated in the meal guide included in each itinerary: B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner.
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Yes! Our detours are the perfect way for children (and adults) to learn in action. We welcome and celebrate multi-generational travel. History class was never so fun!
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Our detour begins in Zagreb at our first hotel, where we will meet for a welcome reception around 5 pm. Our trip ends in Rovinj. Nearby Pula airport offers connecting flights to destinations in Europe from where you may fly to your international airport home.
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While this varies by detour, we generally plan to meet between 5-6 pm at our hotel on Day 1. If you plan to arrive a day early and want to stay in our trip hotel, please make arrangements with the hotel directly, indicating that you are part of our group.
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Please plan to fly into Zagreb. Depending on your post-travel plans, you can connect back to Zagreb by train (3 hours) or by flight from Pula.
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Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.
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Deposits are refundable for 30 days from receipt. After 30 days they are nonrefundable.
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Final payment is due 90 days prior to detour commencement but you may pau in full any time prior to this.
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Cancellations are allowed without penalty (excepting deposit) until the final payment deadline. After the final payment deadline 100% of funds paid are nonrefundable.
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Each trip page has a “book now” button that links to our online registration and payment system. There you can pay the 10% per person deposit and choose to pay in installments or to pay the full amount.
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Yes, all published prices are per person, based on double occupancy, or when available, single occupancy. Please contact us for triple occupancy pricing.
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During the registration process you will have the opportunity to request single occupancy, if it is offered. Due to the boutique nature of our hotels, we are not always able to offer single accommodations, but are happy to pair you with another single traveler.
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Yes. You must be able to carry your own luggage up at least three flights of stairs and on uneven ground for up to a quarter mile.
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Dressler Detours are physically demanding. To enjoy the experience, you must be in good walking shape. The most active days may average 5 miles of walking (often over uneven surfaces and including lots of climbing/steps), lots of standing while listening to your guide during group sightseeing, and possibly stair-climbing while carrying your own bag up to your hotel room. This detour includes boat travel as well. We’ve included an activity guide for each day of our itinerary: light=mostly sedentary, moderate=walking 1-3 miles on mostly even ground, strenuous=walking 3+ miles on hills/uneven ground.