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Wallis and Futuna - Mountain Views
Wallis and Futuna
Wallis and Futuna, officially the Territory of the Wallis and Futuna Islands is a French island collectivity in the South Pacific.

Wallis and Futuna

Wallis and Futuna, officially the Territory of the Wallis and Futuna Islands is a French island collectivity...

TOP 10 Places to Visit in Wallis and Futuna
Wallis and Futuna flag

Wallis and Futuna Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Mata-Utu (on Ile Uvea)

Location:

Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand

Currency:

Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (XPF)

Area:

142 sq km

Population:

15,851 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Wallisian (indigenous Polynesian language) 58.9%, Futunian 30.1%, French (official) 10.8%, other 0.2% (2003 census)

Religion:

Roman Catholic 99%, other 1%

TimeZone:

UTC+12

Tel Code:

+681

Things to Do

  • 1. Beachcombing

    Explore the stunning beaches of Wallis and Futuna while searching for shells, corals, and other treasures washed up by the sea. With its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, beachcombing in Wallis and Futuna is a truly magical experience.

  • 2. Snorkeling

    Discover the colorful underwater world of Wallis and Futuna through snorkeling. With its abundant marine life and vibrant coral reefs, this activity allows you to get up close and personal with exotic fish, turtles, and other marine creatures.

  • 3. Hiking in Vailala

    Embark on a hiking adventure in the scenic Vailala region of Wallis and Futuna. This trail takes you through lush forests, picturesque landscapes, and stunning viewpoints, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the islands.

  • 4. Traditional Dance Performance

    Experience the vibrant culture of Wallis and Futuna through a traditional dance performance. Watch as local dancers showcase their skill and grace, accompanied by lively music and colorful costumes. This cultural activity provides insight into the rich heritage of the islands.

  • 5. Kayaking in Lalolalo Lake

    Paddle through the calm waters of Lalolalo Lake on a kayaking adventure. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes, this activity allows you to connect with nature while enjoying a peaceful and relaxing experience.

  • 6. Cultural Village Tour

    Embark on a cultural village tour to learn more about the traditional way of life in Wallis and Futuna. Visit local villages, interact with friendly villagers, and discover traditional crafts, cuisine, and customs that have been passed down through generations.

  • 7. Whale Watching

    Embark on a thrilling whale watching tour in Wallis and Futuna. Witness majestic humpback whales as they migrate through the waters surrounding the islands. This awe-inspiring experience allows you to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

  • 8. Visit Talietumu Archaeological Site

    Explore the ancient ruins of Talietumu, an archaeological site in Wallis and Futuna. Discover the remains of an ancient fortification and learn about the history and culture of the islands. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

  • 9. Surfing

    Ride the waves in Wallis and Futuna with a surfing adventure. With its pristine beaches and consistent swells, this destination offers ideal conditions for both beginner and experienced surfers. Catch some waves and experience the thrill of this popular water sport.

  • 10. Island Hopping

    Embark on an island hopping adventure in Wallis and Futuna. Explore the different islands of the archipelago, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From deserted beaches to lush forests, island hopping allows you to discover the diverse beauty of the islands.

Weather

Climate

Wallis and Futuna have a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature is around 26-27°C (79-81°F), with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s°C (95°F) during the summer months. The rainy season is from November to April, with the wettest months being January and February.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Wallis and Futuna is from May to October, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is pleasant with less rainfall and the waters are calm, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking. The months of June to August are considered the peak tourist season, with more visitors and higher prices.

Visas

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

COVID Status

I am vaccinated 
Wallis and Futuna Closed
Test
Not required
Quarantine
Not required

Check Visa Requirements

      Accommodation

      Hotels

      There are a few hotels available in Wallis and Futuna, mainly in the capital city of Mata-Utu. These hotels range from budget-friendly to more luxurious options and offer comfortable accommodations for visitors.

      Guesthouses

      Guesthouses are a common type of accommodation in Wallis and Futuna and offer a more traditional and affordable option for travelers. These guesthouses are often owned and operated by local families and provide a unique cultural experience.

      Villas

      For those looking for a more private and upscale experience, villas are available for rent in Wallis and Futuna. These villas offer spacious and luxurious accommodations and are often located near the beach.

      Camping

      Camping is also an option for those looking for a more budget-friendly and adventurous experience in Wallis and Futuna. There are several designated camping sites available on the islands, and campers are advised to bring their own camping equipment.

      It's important to note that the tourism infrastructure in Wallis and Futuna is limited, and travelers should make arrangements in advance to ensure availability of accommodations during their visit.

      Transportation

      Air Travel

      The only way to reach Wallis and Futuna from overseas is by air, with flights from Fiji and New Caledonia to the main island of Wallis. There is also a local air service available between Wallis and Futuna.

      Car Rental

      Car rental services are available on the islands, offering visitors the option to explore the islands at their own pace.

      Taxis

      Taxis are available in the capital city of Mata-Utu, but services are limited and pre-arrangement is recommended.

      Buses

      Local bus services are available in Wallis and Futuna, but they are limited and do not cover all areas of the islands.

      Bicycles and Mopeds

      Bicycles and mopeds are available for rent on the islands, offering visitors a unique and budget-friendly way to explore Wallis and Futuna.

      Money

      Money Tips for Travel

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
      • Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
      • Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
      • Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

      ATM and Credit Cards

      • Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
      • Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
      • Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
      • Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
      • Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
      • Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

      Exchange Rates

      • Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
      • Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
      • Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
      • Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
      • Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

      Insurance

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

      Medical Coverage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

      Trip Cancellation and Interruption

      Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

      Lost or Stolen Luggage

      Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

      Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

      Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

      Liability coverage

      Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

      Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

      Mobile

      When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

      eSIM

      Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

      Dual SIM phone

      If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

      Extend your home plan

      Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

      Keep your primary SIM

      With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

      Community

      There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

      Facebook groups

      There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

      Meetup

      Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

      Internations

      Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

      Couchsurfing

      Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

      Reddit

      Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

      Linkedin

      LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

      At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.