Main image

Image Science and Analysis Laboratory, NASA-Johnson Space Center. "The Gateway to Astronaut Photography of Earth." CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Raeffsky Islands

Islands

Group of islands in the Tuamotu‑Gambier archipelago of French Polynesia; visited for atolls, coral lagoons, fishing and remote island life.

Raeffsky Islands RikiteaTuamotusMakateaToauMangarevaRaeffsky Islands

Raeffsky Islands at a Glance

When to Go

Best Time to Visit Raeffsky Islands

Best months are the austral winter (May-October) when seas are calmer; these are low-density, logistics-heavy islands best visited with local knowledge.

Dry season
May-October · 24-29°C (75-84°F)
Calmer seas and clearer skies make for better boating and diving.
Wet season
November-April · 25-31°C (77-88°F)
Heavier rains and occasional cyclonic swells; fewer visitors but more lush vegetation on any motu.
Getting There & Around

How to Get to Raeffsky Islands

Access to the Raeffsky group requires careful planning from Papeete (Tahiti) or regional hubs such as Rangiroa. Inter-island flights and supply boats run irregularly; coordinate with local operators and allow extra travel time for weather delays.

Tips for Visiting Raeffsky Islands

  • The Raeffsky (Raevskyy) group is remote - arrange transport and permits through regional authorities in Rangiroa or Papeete.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen and binoculars; these atolls are best experienced for birdlife and lagoon dives rather than sightseeing on land.
  • Weather can change quickly; allow buffer days in any itinerary for missed boats or flights.