Fakarava Atoll

Welcome to Fakarava Atoll, a Tropical island in the South Pacific Ocean, part of the majestic Pacific Ocean. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of what makes Fakarava Atoll unique – from its geography and climate to its population, infrastructure, and beyond. Dive into the details:
- Geography and Size: Explore the island’s size and location.
- Climate and Weather: Weather patterns and temperature.
- Topography and Nature: Uncover the natural wonders of the island.
- Infrastructure and Travelling: Insights on reaching, staying, and making the most of your visit.
- News and Headlines: Latest News.
Geography and size of Fakarava Atoll
Size: 13.4 km²
Coastline: 101.3 km
Ocean: Pacific Ocean
Sea: South Pacific Ocean
Continent: Oceania
Fakarava Atoll is a Medium Island spanning 13 km² with a coastline of 101 km.
Archipel: Tuamotus – A group of atolls in French Polynesia, known for their stunning coral reefs, lagoons, and as a popular diving destination.
Tectonic Plate: Pacific – The world’s largest tectonic plate, covering much of the Pacific Ocean, known for the Pacific Ring of Fire with extensive seismic and volcanic activity.
The geographic heart of the island is pinpointed at these coordinates:
Latitude: -16.19785409 / Longitude: -145.5955802
Climate and weather of Fakarava Atoll
Climate Zone: Tropical
Climate Details: Tropical Rainforest Climate
Temperature: Hot
Climate Characteristics: This climate is typified by heavy rainfall throughout the year, high humidity, and consistently high temperatures, leading to lush rainforests and rich biodiversity. Seasonal temperature variations are minimal.
Topography and nature of Fakarava Atoll
Timezone: UTC-10:00
Timezone places: Pacific/Honolulu
Max. Elevation: 2 m
Mean Elevation: -11 m
Vegetation: Shrubland
Tree Coverage: 53%
The mean elevation is -11 m. The highest elevation on the island reaches approximately 2 meters above sea level. The island is characterized by Plains: Flat, low-lying lands characterized by a maximum elevation of up to 200 meters. On islands, plains are typically coastal lowlands or central flat areas.
Dominating Vegetation: Shrubland
Dominated by shrubs and small bushes, these areas are typical in dry, rocky, or sandy environments, as well as in regions with poor soil fertility. Fakarava Atoll has a tree cover of 53 %.
Vegetation: 8 vegetation zones – Very Highly Diverse Island
Islands in this range are ecological powerhouses, showcasing a wide array of vegetation zones. Each zone, from lush rainforests to arid scrublands, coastal mangroves to mountainous regions, contributes to a complex and interdependent ecosystem. These islands are often hotspots of biodiversity, supporting numerous species and intricate ecological processes.
Infrastructure and Travelling to Fakarava Atoll
Does the island have a public airport? yes.
Fakarava Atoll has a public and scheduled airport. The following airports are located on this island: Fakarava Airport.
Does the island have a major port? no.
There are no major ports on Fakarava Atoll. The closest major port is PAPEETE, approximately 445 km away.
The mean population of Fakarava Atoll is 28 per km². Fakarava Atoll is Gently Populated. The island belongs to France.
Continuing your journey, Niau is the next notable island, situated merely km away.
France is classified as Developed region: G7: Group of Seven – Major advanced economies, including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The level of income is High income: OECD.
News – Latest Updates and Headlines from Fakarava Atoll
Stay informed with the most recent news and important headlines from Fakarava Atoll. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments.
- I Got My Open Water Scuba Certification at 50—This Tiny South Pacific Island Was the Perfect Place to Do It - Travel + Leisureon 1 October 2026
I Got My Open Water Scuba Certification at 50—This Tiny South Pacific Island Was the Perfect Place to Do It Travel + Leisure
- PONANT-owned Paul Gauguin Cruises announces 2028 schedule - CruiseMapperon 22 February 2026
PONANT-owned Paul Gauguin Cruises announces 2028 schedule CruiseMapper
- RTÉ Archives | Environment | Inis Oirr And Fakarava - RTE.ieon 25 August 2025
RTÉ Archives | Environment | Inis Oirr And Fakarava RTE.ie
- If you love Hawaii, French Polynesia should be on your radar too - National Geographicon 22 August 2025
If you love Hawaii, French Polynesia should be on your radar too National Geographic
- Tranquil Lagoons, Vibrant Marine Life, And Pink Sands Create Magic At This Polynesian Island Paradise - http://www.islands.comon 24 July 2025
Tranquil Lagoons, Vibrant Marine Life, And Pink Sands Create Magic At This Polynesian Island Paradise www.islands.com
- The only French Polynesian atoll where millions of grouper spawn in secret - 837 locals guard UNESCO paradise - Journée Mondialeon 16 July 2025
The only French Polynesian atoll where millions of grouper spawn in secret - 837 locals guard UNESCO paradise Journée Mondiale
- This French Polynesian atoll of just 800 residents guards a 60-kilometer coral ring - Journée Mondialeon 1 June 2025
This French Polynesian atoll of just 800 residents guards a 60-kilometer coral ring Journée Mondiale
- French Polynesia's wall of sharks - Oceanographic Magazineon 8 May 2025
French Polynesia's wall of sharks Oceanographic Magazine
- The world’s 50 best beaches for 2025, according to a new report - Forbes Australiaon 30 April 2025
The world’s 50 best beaches for 2025, according to a new report Forbes Australia
- After cyclones put Tahiti cruise on pause, a pivot to the Marquesas launches new memories - San Diego Union-Tribuneon 24 February 2025
After cyclones put Tahiti cruise on pause, a pivot to the Marquesas launches new memories San Diego Union-Tribune
Please note: The data used here has been primarily extracted from satellite readings. Deviations from exact values may occur, particularly regarding the height of elevations and population density. Land area and coastline measurements refer to average values at mean high tide.
