Welcome to Tuvalu

If you’re seeking a pristine, remote, tiny paradise that your friends have likely not heard of, head to Tuvalu. A peaceful, totally non-commercialized island, ideal for total R&R, the island boasts an exquisite marine environment rich in coral atolls, lagoons and reefs.

Within the nearly 13-square-mile Funafuti Conservation Area, you’ll find endangered green sea turtles and countless species of fish, coral and algae. Charter a yacht and go island hopping or fishing. Don’t leave the island without Tuvalu souvenir fans, mats, baskets, necklaces, woodcarvings or fishhooks, all of which are famous throughout the Pacific. This is the quintessential South Pacific idyll.

Unique Facts

• Tuvalu is one of the smallest countries in the world. Its airport only sees about three flights per week. It also has one of the smallest economies in the world.
• Tuvalu consists of three reef islands, Nanumanga, Niutao and Niulakita, and six true atolls, Funafuti, Nanumea, Nui, Nukufetau, Nukulaelae and Vaitupu.
• The official capital of Tuvalu is the entire island of Funafuti. About 56 percent of the population lives here.
• Europeans were the first to spot Tuvalu, in January 1568, when the Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira from Spain sailed past the island of Nui.
• Much of Tuvalu’s income is the lease of its .tv Internet Top Level Domain.

Language

Tuvalu’s official languages are Tuvaluan and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Tuvalu is between mid-May and late October. To be extra cautious in terms of avoiding cyclones, aim for July to mid-October.

Airports

Funafuti International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond entry date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Tuvalu: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type I. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Australian Dollar and Tuvaluan Dollar

Getting Around

Be aware that the main roads on Funafuti are paved, but secondary roads are not. Animals and pedestrians share the roadways.

Cars, motorbikes, bicycles and boats are available for rent. Minibus service is available on weekdays. The best way to get around is on foot.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Suva, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, Tuvalu
158 Princes Rd, Tamavua
Suva, Fiji Islands
Telephone: +(679) 331-4466
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(679) 772-8049
Fax: +(679) 330-2267
SuvaACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tel: 688-20840
info@timelesstuvalu.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Tuvalu. Avoid going out alone at night or to isolated areas. Take standard safety precautions. Do not leave belongings unattended.