Makatea
Island Raised coral island in the Tuamotu-Gambier group
Raised atoll in French Polynesia’s Tuamotu‑Gambier group, Makatea has steep coral cliffs, caves and a history of phosphate mining. Visitors reach it via occasional boats for diving, fishing and remote island landscapes.
Makatea is a raised coral island in French Polynesia within the administrative subdivision of the Tuamotu‑Gambier group. Unlike low atolls, Makatea rises steeply from the ocean to an elevated limestone plateau ringed by cliffs.
The island’s geology and raised‑atoll form produced phosphate deposits that were exploited commercially during the 20th century, leaving mining features and altered landscapes. Today the island retains steep coastal cliffs, interior karst features and small settlements.
Access is by air or sea from larger population centres in French Polynesia, and services on the island are limited compared with the Society Islands. The island’s topography and remoteness make it distinct among the Tuamotu‑Gambier islands.
Makatea lies in the central South Pacific as part of French Polynesia’s overseas territory and is administered within the Tuamotu‑Gambier subdivision.
- Raised atoll morphology: a raised coral island with steep limestone cliffs that distinguishes it from typical low atolls in the region.
- Phosphate mining history: site of historical phosphate extraction which shaped the island's economy and landscape in the 20th century.
Tips for Visiting Makatea #
- Makatea is a small raised coral island with limited accommodation and transport - arrange your inter-island flight or boat connection and any on-island transfers well in advance because services are infrequent.
- The island has visible remnants of historic phosphate-mining infrastructure and rugged limestone cliffs and caves; if you want to explore these safely and respectfully, hire a local guide rather than attempting solo explorations in remote areas.
- Bring sufficient cash and confirm lodging/meals ahead of arrival: services can be basic and not all amenities are available on short notice.
Best Time to Visit Makatea #
Visit during the dry season (May-October) for the most reliable weather, calmer seas and easier access to coastal activities.
Weather & Climate near Makatea #
Makatea's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 21°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1754 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C. Heavy rain (234 mm).
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February
February is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Significant rainfall (185 mm).
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March
March is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Significant rainfall (155 mm).
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April
April is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (126 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 21°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
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August
August is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (77 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 21°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm).
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October
October is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (175 mm).
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December
December is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 23°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (246 mm).
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