Destination Guide

Funafuti Atol, Tuvalu

Tuvalu is one of the smallest countries in the world. Only three other countries can claim to be smaller than the tiny island group known as Tuvalu. These tiny islands are easy to miss but impossible to forget.

Once you arrive in Tuvalu, you'll want to immerse yourself in the culture. You will want to discover the days of ancient Tuvaluan culture as well as experience the charms of their traditions that are still alive today. Explore ancient altars and 70-year-old World War II plane wrecks until you can't take another step, then spend the rest of the trip relaxing on their beautiful beaches.

Getting in and around Tuvalu

Tuvalu Airport

Getting in to Tuvalu is best done by plane. The Tuvalu airport is located in Funafuti, which is considered to many as the main island in Tuvalu. Air Pacific and Air Fiji both offer weekly flights to Funafuti from Suva, Fiji. Those travelling to Tuvalu from outside Fiji will want to secure connecting flights to Suva.

Tuvalu Transport

Getting around Tuvalu and the islands is done by boat. However, because the passage ways are too narrow for large ships, cargo and people are first loaded into smaller boats. Be prepared for a rough ride.

Tuvalu Car Hire

Tuvalu car hire is an informal affair and you may be able to find private car hire businesses. Mopeds and motorcycles are most commonly used to get around on land in Funafuti. The cost for motorcycle hire is approximately $10 daily and you'll need to present your driver's license.

^ Back to top

Tuvalu accommdation

Tuvalu has very limited accommodations, but for most visitors, that's what makes this island destination so charming. The Vaiaku Lagi Hotel is on Funafuti and it's the only hotel in Tuvalu. This state-owned hotel has all the typical hotel amenities to ensure your comfort but has limited space with only 16 rooms.

Accommodation
  • Vaiaku Lagi Hotel. The Vaiaku Lagi Hotel is owned by the state and it's the only hotel in Tuvalu. But guests will find that it's a very comfortable accommodation.
^ Back to top

Things to do in Tuvalu

The history of Tuvalu plays a big role in its very small catalogue of things to do. Guests will be intrigued at how easy it is to stumble across a piece of history - a World War II era plane wreck or an ancient religious site. But if history isn't your thing, you can always find a quiet spot on the beach and see what it might be like to live a quiet life in Tuvalu.

  • World War II Wreckage. Tuvalu is a great vacation spot for war history buffs. In Tuvalu, you don't even have to pay a museum fee to see the sights. You'll find runways, plane wrecks, and bunkers from when American troops attacked an enemy base in Kiribati.
  • Archaeological sites. On the Nukulaelae atoll, visitors can see a rare pre-Christian archaeological site from the earliest Tuvalu inhabitants. This site features a large stone altar that is thought to have been used for ritual sacrifices.
  • Marine life. Animal lovers will rejoice in Tuvalu. These islands are famous for the vast marine life that can be seen in the lagoons and around the islands, including colourful fish, sea turtles, sharks, and whales.
  • Church architecture. Being a largely Christian nation, Tuvalu is also known for its beautiful church buildings. Perhaps the most significant of all the churches in Tuvalu is the church in Nanumea that features Gothic-style architecture.
  • Maneapa. Local feasts are quite the occasion in Tuvalu and the dancing and festivities are a must-see. Using traditional Polynesian dance and elaborate costumes, dancing in Tuvalu is an experience that cannot be matched. Feasts are often held at the Maneapa, the local meeting hall.
  • Nanumea. Nanumea is the northernmost island in Tuvalu but one that is definitely worth visiting. A trip to Nanumea promises beautiful beaches, a freshwater pond, historic World War II wreckage, and more amazing scenery.
    • ^ Back to top

    Day trips in and around Tuvalu

  • Other islands. Tuvalu has many other islands worth visiting - such as Nui, Nukulaelae, and Nukufetau - that all have gorgeous beaches, historic sites, and amazing wildlife.
  • Snorkelling and diving. Tuvalu is known for incredible coral reefs, colourful marine life, and other under water treasures that you don't want to miss. Be sure to leave a day for snorkelling or diving in your trip.
    • ^ Back to top