Rapa Iti
in French Polynesia

Rapa Iti

Rapa Iti, located in French Polynesia, is the southernmost island in the Austral Islands of the South Pacific Ocean. It is the largest of the Austral Islands and is considered to be the most remote inhabited island in the world. The island is about 8 km wide and 16 km long, with a total land area of about 90 km².

Rapa Iti is known for its unique landscape, which includes two extinct volcanoes, a rugged coastline, and a large lagoon. The island is covered in dense tropical rainforest, and its beaches are surrounded by a coral reef. The climate is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 21-30°C throughout the year.

The indigenous people of Rapa Iti are the Rapa Nui, who are believed to have arrived on the island around 800 AD. The Rapa Nui are known for their unique culture, which includes a unique language, art, and traditional crafts. They are also famous for their Moai statues, which are large stone figures that have been carved from volcanic rock.

Rapa Iti has a long and fascinating history, which has been shaped by both its indigenous people and by European explorers. In 1791, the island was visited by the British explorer William Bligh, who named it “Rapa” after the indigenous people he encountered. In 1834, the French explorer Dumont d'Urville visited the island and named it “Iti”.

In the late 19th century, Rapa Iti was annexed by France and became part of the French colony of New Caledonia. During this period, the island experienced a period of economic growth, with the development of coffee and sugar plantations. In 1946, Rapa Iti became part of French Polynesia, and in 1962 it became an administrative district of the French Overseas Territory.

Today, Rapa Iti is a popular tourist destination, with visitors enjoying its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and rich cultural heritage. The island is also home to a number of small villages and settlements, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Rapa Nui people.

Experience Rapa Iti with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Rapa Iti. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Rapa Iti

Rapa Iti, en Polynésie française, connaît des saisons douces et chaudes tout au long de l'année. En hiver, les températures moyennes sont comprises entre 22 et 27 degrés Celsius, avec des précipitations modérées. En été, les températures moyennes sont comprises entre 25 et 30 degrés Celsius, avec des précipitations plus importantes. La saison des pluies s'étend généralement de novembre à mars, lorsque les précipitations sont les plus abondantes. La saison sèche s'étend généralement de mai à octobre, lorsque les précipitations sont les plus faibles. Les températures sont généralement relativement stables tout au long de l'année, mais les précipitations varient considérablement entre les saisons.

Cruise weather for Rapa Iti

Our weather forecast for Rapa Iti helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Rapa Iti

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