The Australes don't get talked about much, which is exactly why I like them. On my trips south the islands felt cooler and greener than the postcard side of French Polynesia, with more gardens than resorts. The Australes Pass links the main islands of the group, and if you care about landscapes and quiet over nightlife, this is the route I'd point you to. The islands a pass covers can change, so I confirm the current details with Air Tahiti when I book.
Rurutu and its caves
Rurutu is the stop I'd put first for nature. The island is ringed with limestone cliffs and caves, and between roughly July and October humpback whales come close to shore — I've watched them from the coast without a boat. It's a working island of taro patches and small villages, so plan around a slower rhythm than the Society Islands.
Tubuai's green interior
Tubuai is flatter and wider, with a broad lagoon and a patchwork of farms across the middle. I rented a bike and circled it in a day, which is the best way I've found to see how much of the island is given over to growing things. It's the kind of place where the appeal is the everyday landscape rather than any single sight.
Raivavae for the lagoon
Raivavae often gets compared to Bora Bora for its lagoon and string of motus, but with a fraction of the visitors. I spent my time there on the water and walking the quiet roads. Of the three it's the one I'd save for last, as a calm finish before the flight back north — and I'd confirm that flight ahead, since southern schedules are thinner.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Australes?
The islands sit further south, so they're cooler. I like the dry season from about May to October, which also overlaps with the whales off Rurutu. Conditions vary year to year, so check before you commit to dates.
Are the Australes good for a first French Polynesia trip?
They're better as a second trip, or for travellers who already know they want quiet and landscapes over resorts. If you want lagoon-and-bungalow scenery the Society Islands are an easier start.
Does the Australes Pass include the airline?
No. Air Tahiti runs the inter-island flights, and the Australes Pass is the multi-island flight pass we help travellers arrange through Far & Away Adventures.
Planning a trip to French Polynesia? Tell us your islands and dates and we'll help you build the right Air Tahiti Pass flight pass and itinerary.