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Tuvalu
Tuvalu is a secluded paradise with crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, and vibrant marine life. Explore Funafuti Atoll, enjoy pristine lagoons, and experience the charm of this Pacific island escape.
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Summary
Did you know?
One of the Smallest Countries on Earth – It has a population of only about 11,000 people.
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 10. October, 09. September
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
150-200mm, >200mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Oceania
Currency
Tuvaluan Dollar, Australian dollar
Languages
English, Tuvaluan
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Tuvalu is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, with lower humidity, cooler temperatures, and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the islands.
Avoid the wet season (November to April), as it brings heavy rains, high humidity, and the risk of cyclones.
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Plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Climate Data
Peak Season (May to October)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 8 to 10 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rare, dry conditions with clear skies.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour.
Intensity: Light rain, if any.
Duration: Showers are typically brief, lasting less than 30 minutes.
Off-Peak Season (November to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: 6 to 8 hours.
Rain Frequency: Frequent, with heavier rainfall during the wet season.
Rainy Hours per Day: 2 to 3 hours.
Intensity: Moderate to heavy rain.
Duration: Rain tends to last for several hours, often with periods of intense rainfall.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: Global Historical Climatology Network
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-October (Dry Season)
The weather is warm and dry with little rainfall, making it the best time to visit.
Limited tourism infrastructure means accommodations are scarce but affordable.
Budget Vacation ($30-$80/day)
Accommodation: $20-$40/night (guesthouses, homestays).
Food: $5-$15/day (local eateries, market food).
Activities: $5-$10/day (beach visits, snorkeling, exploring local villages).
Transportation: $3-$7/day (bicycle rentals, small boats).
Other Costs: $2-$5/day (snacks, small purchases).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-$200/day)
Accommodation: $40-$100/night (small hotels, better guesthouses).
Food: $15-$40/day (restaurants, larger meals).
Activities: $10-$30/day (boat trips, island hopping, diving).
Transportation: $7-$15/day (boat rentals, private transport).
Other Costs: $5-$10/day (souvenirs, cultural activities).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (best available lodgings, limited options).
Food: $40+/day (imported meals, fine dining if available).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, diving excursions).
Transportation: $15+/day (private boats, chartered transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (exclusive purchases, guided experiences).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Rainy Season)
Higher humidity and frequent tropical storms, making travel less predictable.
Fewer tourists, leading to lower prices and more availability in accommodations.
Budget Vacation ($25-$70/day)
Accommodation: $15-$35/night (guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $5-$12/day (market food, basic meals).
Activities: $3-$7/day (beach walks, village tours).
Transportation: $2-$5/day (bicycles, limited taxis).
Other Costs: $2-$5/day (small extras, shopping).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-$180/day)
Accommodation: $35-$90/night (nicer guesthouses, small hotels).
Food: $12-$30/day (restaurants, better meals).
Activities: $7-$25/day (snorkeling, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $5-$12/day (boat rides, rentals).
Other Costs: $5-$10/day (gifts, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($180+/day)
Accommodation: $90+/night (best available places, limited options).
Food: $30+/day (imported foods, full meals).
Activities: $25+/day (private boat trips, diving).
Transportation: $12+/day (chartered boats, private cars).
Other Costs: $10+/day (premium services, souvenirs).
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You can find accomendations that fit your trip and budget on Booking.com, Vrbo and Hotels.com
Best Regions to visit
Cities
Tuvalu is a small island nation with no large cities, but here are the main villages and towns to visit
1. Funafuti
- The capital and largest settlement, home to Tuvalu’s main government buildings and airport.
2. Fongafale
- The most populated islet in Funafuti Atoll, where most residents live and work.
3. Savave Village (Nanumea Atoll)
- A traditional village known for its peaceful atmosphere and WWII history.
4. Asau Village (Vaitupu Atoll)
- One of the larger villages, offering a mix of traditional life and modern influences.
5. Tanrake Village (Nui Atoll)
- A small but culturally rich village with strong ties to Tuvaluan heritage.
Funafuti
Did you know?
It May Disappear Soon – Rising sea levels threaten to completely submerge Tuvalu within the next 100 years.
Islands
1. Funafuti Atoll
- The capital island, home to the Funafuti Conservation Area, pristine lagoons, and the country's only airport.
2. Nanumea
- The northernmost atoll, known for its stunning beaches, traditional village life, and WWII history.
3. Nui
- A peaceful atoll with beautiful coastal scenery, rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Vaitupu
- One of the largest islands, offering a mix of modern and traditional life, schools, and historical sites.
5. Nanumaga
- Famous for its underwater caves and rich marine life, making it great for diving and exploration.
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Find the perfect place to stay in any of these top cities and islands with Booking.com, Hotels.com and Vrbo – offering entire homes and apartments for a comfortable and private experience.
Funafuti Atoll
Photo by Gabriella Jacobi https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tuvalu_Funafuti_Airport_%28cropped%29.JPG
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Funafuti Conservation Area
- A protected marine area with vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
2. Fongafale Lagoon
- A stunning, shallow lagoon with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and exploring marine life.
3. Nanumea Atoll
- One of Tuvalu’s most picturesque islands, featuring pristine beaches and untouched nature.
4. Nukufetau Atoll
- A tropical paradise with turquoise waters, ideal for fishing and kayaking.
5. Vaiaku Lagoon
- A serene waterfront area in Funafuti, great for watching sunsets and experiencing island life.
Historical & Cultural Attractions
1. Tuvalu National Library and Archives
- A small but important place preserving the country's history, documents, and cultural heritage.
2. WWII Relics on Funafuti
- Remnants of World War II, including airstrips and wreckage left by U.S. forces, scattered around the island.
3. Fale Kaupule (Traditional Meeting Houses)
- Found on each island, these are the heart of Tuvaluan communities where local governance and ceremonies take place.
4. Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau
- A must-visit for stamp collectors, showcasing Tuvalu’s famous postage stamps that are popular worldwide.
5. Traditional Polynesian Dancing & Music
- Experience vibrant local performances showcasing Tuvalu’s rich cultural heritage, often performed during celebrations and special events.
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The best way to explore major cities and must-see attractions is by booking guided tours.* They offer convenience, local insights, and often save time when visiting popular sights.
Tuvalu’s postage stamps
How to get around
1. Walking & Biking
- The main island, Funafuti, is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle.
2. Motorbikes & Scooters
- The most common mode of transport, available for rent.
3. Cars & Taxis
- Few cars exist, and taxis operate without meters, so negotiate fares beforehand.
4. Boats
- Inter-island travel relies on small boats or occasional government ferries.
5. Flights
- Domestic flights are rare, with some services connecting Funafuti to outer islands.
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You can find great car rental deals for your vacation on Expedia *
Did you know?
Its .tv Domain is Worth Millions – Tuvalu makes big money by leasing its .tv web domain to streaming sites.
What to eat
1. Fish (especially tuna and parrotfish)
- Freshly caught from the surrounding waters, fish is often grilled or used in traditional dishes like palusami.
2. Taro
- A starchy root vegetable, often boiled or baked. It’s a staple food and pairs well with fish or coconut-based dishes.
3. Coconut
- Used in many dishes, from savory to sweet. The flesh and milk are integral to local cooking, especially in sauces and desserts.
4. Pulaka
- Another root vegetable, similar to taro, it's typically boiled and served with fish or meat, often in a coconut cream sauce.
5. Tuna Salad
- A simple, yet delicious, dish made with fresh tuna, mixed with local greens and seasoned with coconut or lime.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Funafuti International Airport (FUN)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €1,200 to €2,000.
- Cheapest Months: May to September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,500 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: May to September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: May to September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: May to September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: May to September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
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You can find the best flight deals with Skyscanner or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa on Arrival
- Most nationalities, including travelers from the EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, can get a 30-day visa on arrival at Funafuti International Airport.
2. Visa Extensions
- If you plan to stay longer, visit the Department of Immigration in Funafuti for an extension (usually granted in 30-day increments for a small fee).
3. Required Documents
- Officials may ask for:A passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
- A return or onward ticket (this is important, as airlines might not let you board without it).
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
5. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens of some Pacific nations, like Fiji, Samoa, and Kiribati, don’t need a visa.
6. Arrival Process
- Since Tuvalu has limited flights, immigration is usually smooth, but delays can happen due to weather.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash (Bahraini Dinar, BHD) is useful in markets and smaller shops.
2. Tap Water
- Technically safe but bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- 230V, UK-style plug (Type G).
4. Tipping
- Not mandatory, but 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Available at the airport and malls; Batelco, Zain, and STC are top providers.
6. Driving
- Right-hand drive; good roads, but traffic can be heavy in Manama.
Souveniers
1. Traditional Tapa Cloth
- Tuvalu, like many Pacific islands, produces beautiful tapa cloths made from the bark of the mulberry tree. These cloths are hand-painted with intricate designs and can be used as wall hangings or clothing.
2. Shell Jewelry
- Handcrafted jewelry made from local shells is a popular souvenir in Tuvalu. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets adorned with sea shells make beautiful and authentic gifts.
3. Handwoven Mats
- Traditional mats woven from pandanus leaves are popular in Tuvalu. These mats are used for both practical and decorative purposes and are a great way to bring home a piece of island culture.
Shell Jewelry
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
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