A World Unknown

Ua Pou is a majestic paradise located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. With 2,213 inhabitants, Ua Pou holds a rich cultural history with traces of tribal wars and cannibalism. Four basalt pillars stand in the center of the island, creating a dramatic landscape few have seen. Stumbling upon this island as I looked for unique and unexplored territories to photograph, I knew I had to make the trip out there. Four flights later, with the final one being a small seaplane filled with only a few passengers, I arrived on Ua Pou full of excitement. I was quickly taken away by the lush green forests and the lack of infrastructure. I knew this destination would soon become of my favorites. I spent the next several days exploring the island and learning about the local culture. With such a scarce population, the locals shared many eye-opening stories about the current state of Ua Pou. Do you want to get your teeth checked out? A dentist visits the island every six months to attend to dental needs. Every person I stumbled upon was willing to share their family history and how this island went from tribal wars to living in harmony. Several locals were happy to drive me around and take me into their homes, generously sharing cuisines passed down for generations. The delicious spread of fresh-caught fish and french fries made from breadfruit gave me plenty of energy for every experience. While asking the locals for their favorite hikes, I  learned the territory was not well-traveled, and most adventures started with bush-whacking and a little creativity. That only added fuel to my exploration, and I traveled with locals keeping an eye on every turn. On a gloomy drive through the jungle, I spotted a rocky ridgeline through the cracks of overgrown trees and brush. I quickly asked my local guide to stop so I could take a closer look. The ridgeline was located approximately two miles from the gravel road we were on and was guarded by thick brush and crumbling rocks. I asked the guide if there were any hikes or trails that may get us to the edge of the ridge. He quickly answered, "No, but that doesn't mean we can't get there. We can always give it our best shot!" The local guide proceeded to grab his machete and started paving the way through the shrubs. The hike was nothing short of exhausting, and I quickly realized how intense of a trek this would be. Crumbling cliff-sides followed the endless cuts from the sharp shrubbery. Finally, after a long grueling hour soaked from the humidity, we had made it onto the small mountain. Every one of us on the trek stared in awe of the beauty we discovered. We stood atop the crest gazing at the large pillars piercing in and out of the clouds. As soon as I sent my drone up, I knew the hard work and determination had paid off. I stood in complete shock next to my girlfriend as I snapped a photo of us on the peak. I knew this would be a memory I would always hold so close. Even the local shouted in joy, stunned by the view of his island. As we were getting ready to pack up, the local asked me, "What would you like this hike to be named?" To this day, my mind is blank. All I can think about is the extraordinary journey. As for a name, I guess I'll have to let the collector decide :)  Video Description : https://youtu.be/2Xucov0zZPY