Wallis and Futuna 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Beauty and Culture of Wallis & Futuna

This itinerary assumes you’ve already arrived in Wallis & Futuna. For a complete travel plan, you’d need to factor in flights or ferry trips to the islands.

Day 1:

  • Morning (8am - 12pm):

    • Start your day with a visit to Mata-Utu, the capital of Wallis and Futuna. Explore the charming town center, wander through its colorful markets, and soak in the local atmosphere.
    • Explore the Cathedral of Our Lady of Alofa: This stunning cathedral is a key landmark on the island. Admire its architecture, learn about its history, and visit the nearby Cathedral Plaza for panoramic views.
    • Relax at Talietumu Beach: Enjoy the pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters of this beautiful beach. Take a dip in the lagoon, snorkel amongst the coral reefs, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning scenery.

  • Afternoon (2pm - 6pm):

    • Visit the Open Air Market: Explore the local culture and delicacies by browsing the stalls at the open-air market. Experience the vibrant colors and smells of local produce like fruits, vegetables, taro, fish, and handicrafts.
    • Discover the history at the “Musée Territorial”: Learn about the unique cultural heritage and history of Wallis & Futuna through artifacts and exhibits.

  • Evening (6pm - 10pm):

    • Experience a traditional feast: If you’re lucky enough to be invited, indulge in the local cuisine and customs by attending a “kava ceremony” and enjoying a communal meal with the locals. Learn about the importance of kava in their culture and traditions.

Day 2:

  • Morning (9am - 12pm):

    • Visit the villages of Alofi or Uvea: Explore the traditional way of life and stunning architecture of these historic villages.
    • Learn about local customs: Engage with the locals and visit cultural sites in these villages, like:
      • The “Village Royal” (Alofi) for a glimpse into local traditions and culture.
      • The “Fontamau Market” (Uvea) for a taste of local life and its vibrant marketplace.

  • Afternoon (2pm - 6pm):

    • Explore the natural beauty:
      • Swim with the whales (seasonal): From July to November, you can experience the breathtaking spectacle of humpback whales migrating through the waters around Wallis & Futuna. Whale watching tours are a popular attraction during this time.
      • Hike to the top of a hill: Enjoy panoramic views of the island and its lush landscapes from a scenic hike.

  • Evening (6pm - 10pm):

    • Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset: Talietumu Beach is a great place to enjoy the sunset and reflect on your time in this beautiful archipelago.
    • Experience the “fala” tradition: Take part in a local cultural exchange by visiting a “fala” (traditional meeting house) and learning about the island’s rich history, social structure, and rituals.

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: As a French territory, Wallis & Futuna has different visa requirements for different nationalities. Citizens of the European Union can enter without a visa. Others may need a visa depending on their nationality and the purpose of their visit. Check the specific requirements for your country here.
  • Currency: The official currency is the CFP franc (XPF), but Euros are widely accepted.
  • Language: The official language is French, but the local languages of Wallisian and Futunian are also spoken.
  • Transportation: Getting around Wallis & Futuna is best done by scooter, bicycle, or taxi.

Tips for Tourists:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Wallisian and/or Futunian: While French is widely spoken, locals appreciate visitors making an effort to learn their languages.
  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting villages and churches (especially important).
  • Try the traditional cuisine: Be sure to sample the delicious local food while you’re in Wallis & Futuna. The islands have a unique Polynesian culinary tradition.

Note: This is just a sample itinerary. You can customize it based on your interests, time constraints, and the availability of whale watching tours.

Important Considerations:

  • Respect for Culture: Remember that the island culture is deeply rooted in tradition. Be mindful of dress codes (especially at Talietumu), avoid offensive language, and ask permission before taking photos of people or their homes.
  • Transportation: Public transportation on Wallis & Futuna can be limited. Consider renting a scooter or bicycle to explore the islands freely.

Culture and Traditions:

  • Traditional Culture: The islands are part of the Polynesian archipelago, with rich traditions influenced by indigenous culture and European colonialism.

  • Respect for Customs: Embrace the local culture by trying to learn about it. Visit traditional meeting houses, attend cultural events like kava ceremonies (if possible), and engage in respectful interactions with the people.

  • Culturally Sensitive Travel:

Cultural Experiences:

  • “Tusi Fa’a Uvea”: A traditional form of storytelling using song and dance.

Getting Around:

  • Transportation Options: Scooters are a popular mode of transport on Wallis & Futuna, allowing you to navigate the winding roads and experience the island at your own pace.

Other things to consider:

  • Currency Exchange: The CFP franc is the currency here. It’s recommended to exchange money before arriving or bring Euros.

  • Currency:

  • Weather: The weather on Wallis & Futuna can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack for all conditions.

Accommodation:

  • Accommodation Options: Consider staying in a traditional “fale” (if available) for a unique experience.
  • Local Homestays: Offer a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and live like a Wallisian resident.

Remember:

  • Respectful interactions: Engage with respect for local customs and traditions.

  • Travel insurance: It’s always recommended to have travel insurance when traveling abroad, even within a French territory.

  • Weather Conditions: Always check the weather forecast before traveling, as it can change quickly in this tropical region.

Enjoy your trip!

This beautiful archipelago offers stunning beaches, lush landscapes and a rich cultural experience. Be sure to immerse yourself in it and respect the local way of life.

Evening Activities:

  • Tusi Faa Uvea (traditional dances): Experience the captivating beauty of Polynesian dance by attending a “Tusi” performance. Enjoy the vibrant storytelling and cultural nuances expressed through this traditional art form.
  • Local Cuisine:

Enjoy the “fusi” (a traditional feast) and savor the unique flavors of Wallisia.

Things to see:

  • Traditional Villages:

Experience the charm of local life by visiting the villages of Uvea and exploring their traditions, architecture, and history.

  • Cultural Sites: Discover historical landmarks like the “Fontamau” (the traditional meeting house) or the “Mata’U Church”, both of which offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Wallis & Futuna.
  • Tala’s Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and relaxing on the pristine beaches.

Remember to research specific “fusi” (traditional dance performances) and cultural events happening during your visit.