This Is Our Story
Climb Makatea is a world-class climbing experience like no other. Our chief tour guide, Chris, is a 30 year rock climbing veteran and award-winning journalist who lives just outside of Yosemite National Park. As a teen, Chris read every adventure and climbing book he could get his hands on and grew up sailing and backpacking in the San Francisco Bay Area. Now, with Climb Makatea, Chris is able to take his love for the Island of Makatea and connection with the locals and offer a finely tailored concierge experience to his guests. Everything will be taken care of, so you can have fun, enjoy yourself, and do some world class climbing and exploring.
Our Partners
We work alongside our partners to provide an outstanding experience that is safe, thrilling, and unforgettable. Together, we'll show you the beauty of Makatea and ensure you leave with a lasting impression.
Makatea Island
The island of Discovery
Makatea is a unique and remote island in French Polynesia. This secluded island near Tahiti, is encased by a wall of limestone cliffs, has a population of less than 100 and is a haven for fresh seafood, tropical music, and outdoor activities. The island was once a mine for phosphate but was abandoned in 1966. In 2019, a man named Erwan Le Lann visited the island bringing 20 climbers and hundreds of bolts with him. With his dream of bringing climbing and other outdoor activities to the island to promote eco-tourism, there are now over 100 sport climbing areas on the island with the potential for more. Come join Climb Makatea and experience the untouched beauty of the island and its culture.
A Brief History of Makatea Island
Makatea is a raised coral atoll located in French Polynesia, in the South Pacific Ocean. The island has a rich history dating back to the early Polynesian settlers, who arrived on the island around 800 AD.
The early Polynesian settlers used Makatea's fertile soil to cultivate crops such as taro, coconut, and breadfruit. They also fished in the surrounding waters and used the island's limestone cliffs to build homes and religious structures.
In the 19th century, European explorers arrived on the island, and in the early 20th century, a phosphate mining operation was established. This led to significant changes on the island, including the construction of a port, a railroad system, and worker housing.
The phosphate mining operation continued until the 1960s when it was no longer economically viable. Since then, the island's population has declined, and the island has returned to a more traditional way of life, with fishing and agriculture being the main sources of income.
Today, Makatea is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in the island's natural beauty, including its limestone cliffs, caves, and coral reefs. The island is also known for its traditional Polynesian culture, including music, dance, and cuisine.
