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UAH destination photo
NHV destination photo

UAHNHV

Which side of the plane to sit from Ua Huka Airport (Ua Huka) to Nuku Hiva Airport (Nuku Hiva)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a spectacular panorama of Nuku Hiva's iconic southern bays and the rugged volcanic coastline of both islands.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🌋

Ua Huka Volcanic Ridges

Dramatic view of the eroded volcanic peaks and red-soil ridges of Ua Huka immediately after takeoff.

🏝️

Hemeni and Teuaua Islets

Famous bird sanctuaries located off the coast of Ua Huka, visible as small white-capped rocky outcrops.

🌊

Baie du Contrôleur

One of the most beautiful sights in the Pacific, a massive triple bay surrounded by emerald green mountains.

🏘️

Taiohae Bay

The administrative heart of the Marquesas, located inside a giant ancient volcanic caldera.

🪨

The Sentinels

Two massive basalt pillars standing guard at the entrance to Nuku Hiva's southern harbor.

Sit on the left for the approach into Nuku Hiva. Since the flight is extremely short (around 20 minutes) and stays at a low altitude, keep your camera ready from the moment of takeoff. Morning flights are preferable as the sun illuminates the southern bays, and clouds are less likely to obscure the mountain peaks.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🐎

Vaikivi Plateau

Look down to see the interior of Ua Huka, home to thousands of wild horses and ancient archaeological sites.

☁️

Mount Hitikau

The highest peak on Ua Huka, often shrouded in a thin layer of morning mist.

⛰️

Northern Basalt Spires

Jagged, needle-like rock formations along the northern coast of Nuku Hiva as you approach the island.

🌵

Terre Déserte

The surprisingly arid, desert-like plateau on the northwest of Nuku Hiva where the airport is situated.

The right side is excellent for viewing the interior of Ua Huka and the stark contrast of the 'Desert Land' near the Nuku Hiva airport. If the flight path takes a more northerly route, you will see some of the highest sea cliffs in the world along Nuku Hiva's northern shore.

Top Activities in Nuku Hiva
Route Information

Distance: 76 km (47 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 min

Departure: UAH (-8.936110000000001, -139.55200200000002)

Arrival: NHV (-8.795599937438965, -140.22900390625)

Route Type: Domestic

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