Tahiti And French Polynesia
Vini and Vodafone are the two main mobile operators. Purchase SIM cards at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti. Availability on Tuamotu atolls remains very limited.
Small post offices exist in main villages of larger atolls. Services are basic, mainly for postcards. International parcel services are slow and expensive. Plan to send important mail from Tahiti.
Learn these simple Tahitian phrases. Locals value the effort.
Business hours in the Tuamotus operate on a relaxed island pace. Public holidays often change services.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card in Tahiti upon arrival. This provides consistent communication access, as Wi-Fi remains unreliable on remote atolls.
Accessibility infrastructure in the Tuamotu Islands remains very limited. This destination presents challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
The Tuamotu Islands are not well-equipped for travelers with mobility challenges. Infrastructure is basic and often not adapted. Many bungalows have steps, narrow pathways, or uneven terrain.
Airports are small, often without ramps or jet bridges. Transportation relies on boats, which involve transfers and may not have easy boarding procedures. Vehicles, if any, are not adapted.
Very few specific accessible attractions or transportation options exist. Most natural attractions involve walking on sand, uneven paths, or boat transfers, which prove difficult for those with mobility impairments.
No specialized services or infrastructure exist for travelers with visual or hearing impairments. Visitors rely on personal assistance or travel with companions.
Some smaller pensions or tour operators may close during the low season (February-April) due to reduced demand or for maintenance.
Embrace the slower, island pace. Things may not run on a strict schedule. Patience helps you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Polynesians are generally very welcoming.
A polite "Ia Ora Na" (hello) and "Mauruuru" (thank you) remain appreciated. A slight nod or a gentle handshake is common. Make eye contact and smile.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children. Be discreet and respectful, specifically in religious settings.
Learning some basic French or Tahitian phrases deepens your cultural immersion.
Respect local traditions and the environment. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics.
For accessible travel, contact your chosen accommodations and tour operators directly with detailed inquiries about their specific limitations and whether they can accommodate your needs. Travel agents specializing in accessible travel may provide more tailored advice and help plan suitable itineraries.
Make informed choices to make your trip comfortable and culturally respectful.
Internet access in the Tuamotus can be slow and expensive. Resorts and pensions typically offer Wi-Fi, but it might be slow or unreliable.
ATMs are available in Rangiroa (Avatoru) and Fakarava (Rotoava). On smaller atolls, ATMs are rare or nonexistent.
Consider seasonal variations to shape your trip, whether for weather or specific marine life encounters.
Traveling during the off-season offers unique advantages, despite the potential for more rain.
Air Tahiti Passes offer fixed routes and have limited availability, especially during high season.
Language learning improves your travel experience. Locals appreciate efforts to speak French or Tahitian.
Staying connected without a local physical SIM card happens with an eSIM.
During the wet season (Nov-Apr), there is a risk of cyclones. Monitor weather forecasts closely.
Do not touch or remove coral, shells, or sand from protected areas; this is illegal and harmful to the environment.
