Things To Do
in Tuvalu
Tuvalu is a remote Polynesian nation of nine coral atolls and reef islands in the Pacific, famed for its turquoise lagoons and friendly, close-knit communities. The islands are tiny and traditional, with a slow pace of life centered around family, fishing, and coconuts. Most of the population lives in Funafuti, the compact capital, where everyday life blends island hospitality with a few visitor amenities.
Preparing for this destination means embracing its remoteness, respectful cultural norms, and the pristine but fragile marine environment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Funafuti International Airport and take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters that greet you. Once settled into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local fruits and pastries. Spend your morning acclimatizing to the warm climate and exploring the nearby local shops.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the main island of Funafuti, where you can learn about the culture and history of Tuvalu. Stop by the Tuvalu National Library and the 1978 museum to gather insights about the nation’s past. Finish your tour with a visit to the local market, sampling fresh seafood and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, head to a beachfront restaurant that overlooks the lagoon for a delicious dinner featuring freshly caught fish. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and enjoying the relaxed vibe of the island. After dinner, stroll along the shore and take in the starry night sky, a perfect end to your first day.
Begin your morning with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon at a nearby beach. Afterward, enjoy a traditional breakfast of palusami, which is taro leaves filled with coconut cream. Explore the coral reefs through snorkeling, amazed by the vibrant marine life.
For lunch, try a local café offering a blend of Tuvaluan and Western dishes. Spend the afternoon cycling or walking through Funafuti Conservation Area, where you can spot unique bird species and beautiful flora. Take time to relax on the beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
As evening approaches, join a local fishing tour where you can learn traditional fishing techniques while enjoying the peacefulness of the ocean. After catching your dinner, savor your freshly grilled fish as you watch the sunset paint the sky with stunning colors. Conclude your day with a cultural evening featuring traditional dances and music from local performers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧥Local clothing / beachwear | $15-40 |
| 🛁Hotel breakfast | $8-15 |
| 🧭Public transport (boat/taxi on the island) | $6-20 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5 L) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote and pristine atolls with clear lagoons
- Friendly communities and a slow, relaxed pace
- Limited infrastructure and amenities
- Very limited dining and accommodation options; remote travel required
- "Talofa" - Hello
- "Malo" - Thank you
- "Tino manu te manako o te kea" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in Tuvalu
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, shallow turquoise waters with view lines toward the reef and passing boats; ideal for wide-angle landscapes and sunset silhouettes.
Small islets and the lagoon’s edge offer foregrounds of palm trees and shallow reefs, excellent for a quintessential atoll shot.
Soft golden light over the lagoon; low tide reveals coral flats and silhouettes of fishing boats.
Food in Tuvalu
Tuvalu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves baked in coconut milk, often with onions and sometimes meat or coconut cream—best found in local homestays or community gatherings.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish featuring pulaka root cooked with coconut milk and greens; a staple on Funafuti and neighboring atolls.
Fresh reef fish cured in lime or coconut, lightly seasoned for a simple, bright flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The local market at Vaiaku village where you can buy fresh fish, coconut products, and island produce, best visited in the morning.
Small, seasonal stalls offering grilled fish, taro chips, and coconut-based snacks along the lagoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in village areas and at religious sites; swimwear is for beaches only.
Greet elders with a respectful tone; seek permission before photographing people or homes.
If invited to share kava, receive and pass the cup with both hands and follow local etiquette during the ritual.
Safety
Tipping in Tuvalu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a formal custom in Tuvalu; modest appreciation or a shared meal is appreciated, but not expected. Round up bills where possible if you encounter service.
Cash is the most reliable method; Australian dollars and Tuvaluan dollars are commonly accepted; cards are rarely accepted on outer islands.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant, cooler evenings and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities, boat trips, and photography with clear skies.
Hotter and more humid with higher rain risk and occasional tropical showers; expect brief downpours and strong ocean breezes.
Tuvalu at Night
Hiking in Tuvalu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, short trails along the lagoon with easy birdlife viewing and sea views.
Airports
How to reach Tuvalu by plane.
Main gateway to Tuvalu; international flights mainly connect via Fiji or New Zealand and sometimes Australia; limited schedules.
Major regional gateway in Fiji; transfers to Funafuti are possible with limited frequencies.
Large hub serving connections to Tuvalu through Fiji or other Pacific routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population; close-knit communities with shared customs and language.
Smaller communities including Samoan, Kiribati, Fijian, and some international workers; most communication is in Tuvaluan and English.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tuvalu, played by children and adults in local leagues and informal games.
Traditional outrigger canoe racing practiced during cultural events and celebrations.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on taro, pulaka, coconut, fruits, and greens; request vegetable dishes and avoid fish-based items where needed; inform hosts in advance for tasty plant-based options.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tuvalu.