How to Get to Tahiti. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airlines and Routes

Several airlines operate straight and layover flights to Tahiti from various global hubs. For flight deals, consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Connections

From North America: Air Tahiti Nui (LAX, SEA), French Bee (SFO, LAX), United (SFO), Delta (LAX).
From Europe: Air Tahiti Nui (CDG), French Bee (ORY).
From Asia/Pacific: Air Tahiti Nui (NRT), Hawaiian Airlines (HNL), Air New Zealand (AKL), Qantas (SYD, often via AKL).

Airport Transfers

Faa'an International Airport (PPT) is the only international airport in The Islands of tahiti, located just a few miles from Papeete. Several possibilities are there for reaching your accommodation from the airport.

Transfer Choices

Taxis are available outside arrivals. Fares to Papeete city center: XPF 2,000-3,500 (day), XPF 3,000-5,000 (night).
Many major hotels and resorts have pre-booked transport services. Inquire with your lodging.
Car hire companies have desks at the airport for convenient pick-up.

Flight Price Fluctuations

Prices are highest during the dry season (June-August) and major holidays. Better value often appears during shoulder seasons (May, September, October).

Airport Facilities

PPT provides currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, cafes, car rental desks, souvenir shops, and Wi-Fi access.

Direct Flight Accessibility

Non-stop flight choices make Tahiti more accessible from large cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Paris, Auckland, and Tokyo.

Land Transportation

Public Bus: "Le Truck"

"Le Truck," colorful, open-sided buses, serve as the main public land transport on Tahiti.
They operate primarily on Tahiti Nui, following set routes, but lack strict timetables outside Papeete.
Fares are paid in cash directly to the driver (XPF 200-500 for each ride).
Service is more frequent weekdays, especially during morning and late afternoon commutes.

Self-Driving Considerations

A valid national driver's license is accepted for short stays. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested for non-EU citizens.
Roads are generally well-maintained, especially the main coastal road (Route de Ceinture). Interior roads can be unpaved and rugged.
Driving occurs on the right-hand side. Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and fauna.
A 4x4 vehicle is useful for exploring rugged interior paths or remote areas like Teahupo'o. For rental options, consider DiscoverCars.com.

Sea Travel & Departures

Ferry Services

Regular high-speed ferry services operate between Papeete (Tahiti) and Vaiare (Moorea). Aremiti and Terevau companies provide common services. No formal passport control between Tahiti and Moorea.

Cruise Ports

Papeete is a major cruise port. Cruise ships dock at the Port de Papeete, in proximity to the city center. Immigration procedures for cruise passengers are typically handled onboard the ship.

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees are typically charged. Arrive at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled international departure. This allows time for check-in, security, and immigration formalities.

Departure Information

Airport Check-in & Security

Ensure you complete airline check-in procedures upon arrival at the airport.

Security Guidelines

Pass through security screening.
Be prepared to remove electronics and liquids as per standard transportation security at airports rules.
Complete immigration formalities before proceeding to your departure gate.

Departure Facilities

Faa'an International Airport (PPT) offers facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities Available

Duty-free shops for last-minute souvenir shopping or tax-free goods.
Cafes and concession stands for refreshments.
A lounge is available for eligible passengers, creating a quiet space prior to your flight.

Airport Transfer Tips

For transfers travel from the airport to city/accommodation, consider pre-booking accommodation shuttles. Taxis are always available, with different day and night rates.

Getting to Your Stay

Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall at PPT.
Many major hotels and vacation spots provide pre-booked shuttle services.
Car rental agencies have desks at the airport, enabling you to pick up your car upon arrival.

Driving & Road Safety

While Tahiti does not have land borders or trains, land transportation is important for getting all over the island.

Navigating Roads

The main coastal road (Route de Ceinture) is well-maintained.
Roads into the interior can be unpaved, steep, plus wild.
Driving occurs on the right-hand side. Speed limits are typically 40-60/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on main roads.

Important Travel Notes

Plan to book flights well in advance for peak travel periods.
Check airline luggage policies and restrictions before you pack your bags.
"Le Truck" buses might not be convenient if you have much luggage or need specific hotel drop-offs.

Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, particularly in the countryside while driving.
Road signs are in The the gallic tongue; familiarity with basic signs on the road is helpful.
Be aware of greater taxi rates during night hours and on Sundays or holidays.

Sea Travel

Ferry Connections

Regular high-speed ferry services are available between Papeete (Tahiti) and Vaiare (Moorea). This is the most popular inter-island connection.

Ferry Details

Companies like Aremiti and Terevau provide common services.
Ferry to Moorea: XPF 1,500 - 2,000 one-way.
No formal passport control for travel between Tahiti and Moorea.

Cruise Ship Information

Papeete is a principal cruise port, welcoming ships from all over the world. The port location offers convenience for occupants.

Port & Procedures

Cruise ships dock at the Port de Papeete, within walking distance of the city center.
Immigration procedures for cruise passengers are typically handled onboard the ship when you arrive in French Polynesian waters.
At the Papeete ferry terminal, taxis and "Le Truck" stops are nearby, providing connections to the city.

International Departures

Arrive at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled international departure for check-in and security.

Baggage & Customs

Ensure all airline luggage policies are met and that items requiring specific customs declarations are declared upon departure.

Seamless Transitions

Efficient airport procedures allow for a smooth transition from your Tahitian adventure to your onward journey.

Getting Around Tahiti

Public Transportation

Tahiti's public transportation system centers around its unique buses, known as "Le Truck."

Le Truck System

These are open-sided, often colorfully decorated buses. They operate mainly on Tahiti Nui.
Routes are mainly along the coastal road. The main hub in Papeete is near the Municipal Market.
Fares are paid in cash directly to the driver (XPF 200-500). Have small denominations ready.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a convenient, albeit more expensive, option for getting around Tahiti.

Taxi Information

Taxis are metered, typically white with a "TAXI" sign. Found at designated stands (airport, ferry terminal, major hotels).
Initial flag drop is around XPF 1,000. Cash is preferred, some accept credit cards. Night rates are higher.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not available in Tahiti. Taxis and public buses serve as main transport options.

Rental Options

Car Rental

A valid driving's license is accepted. An IDP is suggested for non-EU citizens. Major companies like Avis, Hertz, Europcar operate at PPT and Papeete. Local agencies offer good prices. For broader selection, consult DiscoverCars.com.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Available from certain car hire companies plus specialized scooter rental shops in Papeete. Motorized scooters are nimble for roads along the coast. Helmets are usually provided and are mandatory.

Bicycle Rentals

Bike-share programs are limited. Some hotels or guesthouses may offer bicycles. Dedicated rental shops are scarce outside Papeete. Cycling along the coastal the street is well-liked for its flat terrain.

Navigation Note

Plan your journeys during daylight hours for better public transport frequency. Ask locals for directions or confirm routes with vehicle pilots; people are generally helpful.

How to Get to Tahiti