Tuamotu Islands Tahiti And French Polynesia Travel Guide
The main international gateway is Faa'an International Airport (PPT) in Papeete, Tahiti. All international flights arrive here. From PPT, you connect to domestic flights to the Tuamotu Islands.
Flights straight to PPT come from major global hubs: Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Paris (CDG/ORY), Tokyo (NRT), Auckland (AKL), and Honolulu (HNL).
Flight prices vary significantly. Book 6-12 months in advance for high season (July-August, December-January). Shoulder season (May-June, September-November) offers more competitive pricing, book 3-6 months in advance. Low season (February-April) offers lowest prices, but higher weather risk. Consider an Air Tahiti Pass for inter-island value.
Faa'an International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti offers standard facilities: duty-free, restaurants, car rental, currency exchange, ATMs. Tuamotu Atoll Airports are very small, open-air, with single check-in, small waiting areas, and bags claim. Do not anticipate extensive services.
From PPT to Papeete: Taxis, pre-booked shuttles, or car rentals. From Tuamotu Atoll Airports: Transfers are almost always pre-arranged by your guesthouse or resort. Look for a representative with your name. These transfers often come by boat or minivan. Confirm arrangements before arrival.
Commercial ferry services between Tuamotu atolls are limited. Air Tahiti flights serve as the main inter-atoll transport. Private cargo schooners sometimes carry passengers, but these are not typically scheduled tourist services.
Some smaller cruise ships and expedition vessels visit select Tuamotu atolls. These ships anchor in the lagoon and tender passengers ashore. No dedicated large cruise ship ports exist.
For cruise passengers, immigration procedures typically happen onboard the ship in Tahiti. Subsequent Tuamotu stops do not involve separate immigration. Land transit from ports or anchorages consists of pre-arranged transfers from guesthouses.
Departure taxes are typically included in your air ticket price for both international and domestic flights. You will not pay separate cash exit fees upon departure from The Land of pristine lagoons. This approach simplifies the departure process.
Know what facilities are available at your departure point.
For inter-island flights with Air Tahiti, pack lightly. Weight limits are strict, and excess baggage fees apply.
Consider purchasing an Air Tahiti Pass to combine flights and be economical if you plan to visit multiple atolls.
Formal licensed taxis are extremely rare or non-existent on most Tuamotu atolls. You will not find taxi stands or meters. Any "taxi" service means an informal arrangement with a local. Agree on the price beforehand; payment is typically cash.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not available in French Polynesia, including the Tuamotu Islands. Do not plan to use these services during your trip. Pre-arranged transfers through your accommodation offer the most reliable option.
Informal shared rides are generally safe given the low crime rates. Always confirm the price and destination before entering a vehicle. Pre-arranged transfers via your accommodation offer the most reliable and safest option.
Rely on your accommodation hosts for most local transport needs. They provide transfers and assist with arranging excursions, making your travel seamless.
