Tiki Village | Moorea

Tiki Village is a cultural village and attraction located on the island of Moorea, in French Polynesia. It is a popular destination for visitors seeking to experience the traditional Polynesian culture and heritage through immersive activities, performances, and authentic experiences. Tiki Village offers an opportunity to learn about the customs, art, music, dance, and lifestyle of the ancient Polynesians, all while enjoying the island's stunning natural beauty.

Key Features of Tiki Village:

Cultural Performances:

• One of the highlights of Tiki Village is its traditional Polynesian cultural performances. These performances often feature traditional music, dances, and songs, with the most iconic being the Tahiti-style hula (known as 'ori Tahiti) and fire dancing.
• Guests can watch the colorful and energetic dances that are deeply rooted in Polynesian history, portraying tales of love, war, and mythological stories from Polynesian culture.
• The fire dance, which is performed with torches and is a major attraction, offers an exhilarating display of skill and artistry as dancers twirl and spin flaming torches in the air.

Authentic Polynesian Village:

• Tiki Village is designed to resemble a traditional Polynesian village, complete with thatched-roof huts, open-air spaces, and authentic Polynesian decorations. The village is set against the backdrop of Moorea’s lush landscapes, providing a natural and immersive setting.
• The village is made up of various small huts that showcase traditional Polynesian craftsmanship and architecture. Visitors can walk around the village to explore how the Polynesians once lived, with displays of cultural artifacts, tools, and handcrafted items.

Traditional Arts and Crafts:

• At Tiki Village, visitors can engage with local artisans and learn about the traditional arts and crafts of the Polynesian people. This includes demonstrations of tapa cloth making, weaving, carving, and jewelry making.
• Some artisans offer the opportunity for visitors to try their hand at creating their own pieces, giving them a hands-on experience in Polynesian craftsmanship.

Cultural Workshops:

• Tiki Village offers various workshops and activities designed to provide deeper insights into Polynesian traditions and skills. Workshops may include learning how to make traditional Polynesian necklaces or creating flower leis.
• There are also cooking demonstrations where visitors can learn how to prepare Polynesian dishes, often made with fresh tropical ingredients like fish, coconut, and fruits.

Traditional Polynesian Feast (Heiva):

• One of the most popular aspects of visiting Tiki Village is the chance to enjoy an authentic Polynesian feast (also known as a Heiva), which is typically served during evening events or as part of a dinner show.
• The feast often includes traditional dishes like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk), roasted meats, taro, and tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple. Meals are prepared using traditional cooking methods, including the ahima’a (earth oven) technique, where food is slow-cooked in a pit underground.
• The dinner is typically served in a festive atmosphere, accompanied by live music and dance performances, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the full cultural experience.

Guided Tours:

• Tiki Village offers guided tours where visitors are led by local guides through the village to learn about the history, traditions, and significance of various aspects of Polynesian culture. Guides often share stories about the ancient Polynesians, their seafaring history, and their cultural practices.
• During these tours, visitors may be shown how to craft traditional items, perform traditional dances, or understand the significance of certain cultural symbols.

Evening Shows:

• In the evening, Tiki Village comes alive with an incredible dinner show. The show typically features traditional music and dance performances, including vibrant dances by local performers in colorful costumes.
• The evening performance usually culminates with a fire dance spectacle, where skilled performers spin fire torches, creating a dazzling and thrilling display of Polynesian artistry.
• This dinner show is one of the most popular activities at Tiki Village, often drawing visitors for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Polynesian Myths and Legends:

• Tiki Village embraces the rich mythology and legends of Polynesia, and these are often incorporated into the performances and storytelling at the village. The dances and songs tell stories of gods, spirits, and heroes, as well as daily life in ancient Polynesia.
• Guests are introduced to the legends that shaped the Polynesian people, such as stories about Tāne, the god of forests, and Oro, the god of war, which are often dramatized during performances.

Family-Friendly:

• Tiki Village is a family-friendly destination, offering activities and experiences suitable for all ages. Children can participate in cultural workshops, watch the dances, and enjoy the evening dinner show.
• The setting of Tiki Village is safe and welcoming for families, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning and fun for children.

Location:

• Tiki Village is located on the southern coast of Moorea, near the Temae Beach area, which is also close to the Moorea Airport. The location provides a beautiful setting for the village, surrounded by the natural beauty of Moorea’s coastline and lush vegetation.
• The village is easily accessible from most hotels and resorts on the island, making it a convenient stop for tourists looking to experience Polynesian culture.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit Tiki Village is during the evening dinner shows, which take place most nights and provide an excellent way to experience Polynesian culture through food, music, and dance. These performances are particularly popular during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is typically clear and pleasant.
• Tiki Village can be visited year-round, though it is advisable to check their schedule ahead of time, especially for special events or performances.

Conclusion:

Tiki Village offers a rich, immersive cultural experience that brings the history, traditions, and lifestyle of Polynesia to life. Whether you’re interested in traditional music and dance, local arts and crafts, or simply enjoying a delicious Polynesian feast, Tiki Village provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Moorea and the broader Polynesian region.