Tekao, mountain in Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia
Tekao is the highest peak on Nuku Hiva, in the Marquesas Islands, rising to 1,224 metres. It stands in the northwest of the island, along the edge of the Tōviʻi plateau, in the traditional province of Te Iʻi. The mountain is volcanic in origin, part of the Marquesas linear volcanic chain formed from a hotspot in the Pacific Plate.
Tekao is part of the Marquesas linear volcanic chain, formed from a hotspot beneath the Pacific Plate. The chain drifts west-northwest at 103 to 118 mm per year. At 1,224 m, Tekao is the highest point of Nuku Hiva but ranks second in the Marquesas after Mont Oave.
Tekao lies in the northwest of Nuku Hiva, on the edge of the Tōviʻi plateau in the traditional province of Te Iʻi, and at 1,224 m it is the island's highest point. There is no marked trail or facilities; access is on foot through the plateau's terrain, so plan for a full day and local guidance. Clouds often cover the summit, so start early for the clearest views.
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