Tahiti Travel: What To Know

Tahiti is a tropical destination with a lot to offer, from its stunning natural beauty and rich culture to its luxurious resorts and exciting adventures. Before you pack your bags and head to this South Pacific paradise, here are some essential things you should know:

- Tahiti is easily accessible by air from many parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and France. However, getting there can take some time, with an 8-hour flight from Los Angeles being the most common route.

- French Polynesia, where Tahiti is located, has its own currency, the French Polynesia Franc (XPF). It's a good idea to exchange money or use ATMs to withdraw local currency upon arrival.

- The official language of Tahiti is French, but many locals also speak Tahitian. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism industry, so communication should not be a significant barrier.

- Tahiti has a tropical climate with two main seasons: summer (November to March) and winter (April to October). The winter months are considered the dry season, making it ideal for scuba diving and outdoor activities.

- Tahiti is an expensive destination, with high costs for accommodation and food. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance and consider alternatives to resorts, such as guesthouses or cruises, to save money.

- Tahiti has strict customs regulations. Declare any valuable items, and be aware of restricted or prohibited items such as certain foods, plants, and animals.

- Tahiti is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of pickpockets in the capital city, Papeete, and moray eels in the coral reefs when scuba diving.

Entry requirements: A valid passport is needed to enter Tahiti

To enter Tahiti, you will need a valid passport. This is required to board any flight to French Polynesia, and your passport must be valid for 180 days beyond your return date. The name on your passport must match the name on your international air tickets.

Citizens of the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union do not need a visa to enter Tahiti if they are staying for 90 days or less. However, citizens of other countries may need a visa in addition to their valid passport. It is recommended to consult the nearest French Consulate or French Embassy for more information on visa requirements. Obtaining a visa can take several weeks, so it is important to plan ahead.

It is important to note that entry requirements can change, so travelers should ensure they have the most up-to-date information before their trip. Additionally, travelers may need to present their passport at customs in French Polynesia and again upon their return to their country of origin. Making a photocopy of your passport and leaving it with a trusted friend is advised in case of loss or theft.

As of May 2023, travelers no longer need to show proof of vaccination to board a flight to the United States from Tahiti. However, travelers should always check the latest travel advisories and recommendations before their trip.

Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken

Tahiti is a tropical destination with a quirky, chaotic, and welcoming culture. It is a safe place for tourists, with a laid-back and affable local culture. French is the official language of Tahiti, but you will also hear Tahitian, the local island language. English is widely spoken and understood in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is worth noting that for most Tahitians, English is a second language, so it is important to be patient and courteous when conversing with locals.

French Polynesia, of which Tahiti is a part, has ties to France, and you will find that many locals, especially those working in the tourist industry, speak English. The Tahitian greeting "La ora na" is more commonly used than the French "Bonjour." Learning some Tahitian is always encouraged and appreciated by the locals. Here are some useful phrases:

• Hello: "Ia orana" (yo-rah-nah)
• Goodbye: "Nana" (nah-nah)
• Welcome: "Maeva" (mah-ay-vah)
• Thank you: "Mauruuru" (mah-roo-roo)
• Cheers: "Manuia" (mah-new-yah)

The currency used in Tahiti is the French Polynesia franc (XPF). Tipping is not customary on the islands, as gratuities are included in hotel and restaurant bills. However, a little extra for excellent service is always appreciated.

Transport: Tahiti is accessible by air from most parts of the world

Tahiti is easily accessible by air from most parts of the world, including the United States, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, France, Chile, and Hawaii. The islands of Tahiti are served by several airlines, with flights connecting them to many global destinations.

The primary international carrier serving Tahiti is Air Tahiti Nui, which operates daily flights between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Faa'a International Airport (PPT) in Papeete, Tahiti. These flights typically depart in the late afternoon or evening, arriving early the next morning. Air Tahiti Nui also offers weekly flights from Los Angeles, while Air France and Hawaiian Airlines provide weekly services from Honolulu. The flight time from Los Angeles is approximately 8.5 hours, and from Honolulu, it's around 5 hours.

When flying with Air Tahiti Nui, it's important to note that they don't offer online check-in, and their check-in counter closes one hour before departure. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before their scheduled departure time. Additionally, passengers should be aware of the documentation requirements, which include a valid passport with a minimum validity of 180 days beyond their return date. The names on the passport and international air tickets must match exactly.

For those seeking a more scenic route, Tahiti is also accessible by cruise ship or private catamaran. Several cruise lines, such as Paul Gauguin, Aranui III, Tahiti Yacht Charter, and Archipels Cruises, offer itineraries that include Tahiti and other islands in the region. These cruises provide a unique opportunity to explore multiple islands during a single trip.

Climate: Tahiti has two seasons, with winter considered the dry season

Tahiti has a tropical climate with about 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. The average annual temperature is 80°F, which is also the temperature of the water in the lagoons. The archipelagos in the south, such as the Austral and Gambier Islands, are further from the equator and have slightly cooler temperatures. The Tuamotu Islands are very sunny, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year.

The Islands of Tahiti have a very pleasant tropical climate all year round, with constant temperatures and lots of sunshine. There are only two seasons, and both are considered the best time to visit. The dry season is from May to November, with temperatures ranging from 70° to 80°F. The rainy season, from December to April, is hotter, with temperatures ranging from 77° to 95°F. Even during the rainy season, there is plenty of sunshine, and the gentle trade winds ensure that the perceived temperature is nearly always comfortable.

The dry season in Tahiti is considered the high season for tourism, with clearer and drier weather. The rainy season, also known as the season of abundance, is when fruit trees and vegetables thrive, making it a great time for food lovers. While the dry season is generally preferred, Tahiti's mild weather and pleasant temperatures year-round make it a great destination at any time.

The dry season in Tahiti offers a great opportunity to participate in various sports events, such as the Tahiti Pearl Regatta in May and the Hawaiki Nui Va'a canoe race in October. It's also a perfect time for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to French Polynesia from June to October. The cultural festivities of July, including the Heiva i Tahiti, provide a unique insight into traditional Polynesian dances and sports competitions.

Currency: The official currency is the French Polynesia franc (XPF)

ATMs are available on the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Some vendors in local handicraft markets will accept US dollars. It is recommended to bring your own snacks and food items from home, as food is costly in Tahiti.

Frequently asked questions