A slow morning walk through Atuona's small artisan market, ending with a private studio visit to a Marquesan woodcarver working in the island's traditional tiki style.
What to expect
The walk starts at the modest open-air market where a handful of Atuona families sell tapa cloth, monoi oil, and carved tikis, with your guide explaining which pieces are genuinely made on-island versus imported. From there you're brought to a working carver's home studio, often the source of the market's finest pieces, to see tools, half-finished work, and discuss the symbolism carved into each tiki. It ends near the famous Tiki Souriant statue with context on its meaning rather than just a photo stop.
Good to know
Best on days when the copra boat or supply ship isn't in, as the market is livelier; cash (CFP) preferred for any purchases; easy walking distance from the landing.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Hiva Oa — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.