Getting There: Wallis And Futuna

Air Travel: The Main Gateway

Major Airports & Airlines

Wallis Island: Hihifo Airport (WLS) is the main international gateway. Futuna Island: Pointe Vele Airport (FUT) serves domestic flights between Futuna and Wallis.

Carriers

Aircalin (Air Calédonie International) is the main airline to Wallis Hihifo (WLS).
Flights connect from Nouméa (New Caledonia) to WLS.
Air Loyauté also operates domestic flights between Wallis and Futuna, sometimes code-shared.

Flight Options & Price Notes

No direct international flights from major global hubs. All international travelers transit through Nouméa (La Tontouta International Airport - NOU), New Caledonia.

Availability and Prices

Flight frequency to Wallis is limited, typically 2-3 flights per week from Nouméa.
Prices are relatively stable but can be high due to remoteness.
Booking flights well in advance is highly suggested. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for options.

Hihifo Airport WLS

Facilities are very basic: small terminal, limited services. Plan for needs before or after arrival.

Pointe Vele Airport FUT

Even more basic, essentially an airstrip with minimal facilities for inter-island travel.

Airport Transfers

Pre-arrange pickups with accommodation on both islands. Taxis are scarce on Futuna.

Land Transportation Notes

No Public Transport

No formal public transportation systems (metros, buses, trams).
No train connections or long-distance bus options.
Land transport between islands or to other countries is not possible.
Border crossing information is not applicable for island territories.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

An International Driving Permit (IDP) with national driver's license is suggested for self-driving.
Car rental agencies are very limited on Wallis Island; no major international chains.
Road conditions vary: main roads are paved, smaller roads can be unpaved and rough. Animals roam freely.
Fuel stations are available but limited. Night driving can be challenging due to poor lighting.

Car Rental Comparison Wallis Island

Local Agencies

Typical Daily Rate: 4,000 - 7,000 XPF. Availability: Very Limited. Notes: Often small, independent operators. Check DiscoverCars.com for availability.

Hotel Rentals

Availability: Limited. Notes: Some larger guesthouses or hotels may feature cars for their guests.

Motorcycles/Scooters

These options are extremely limited or non-existent for tourists. Do not rely on finding them.

Sea Travel and Departure

Sea Arrivals: Rare and Limited

Sea and river arrivals are not common for tourists, with specific limitations on inter-island travel.

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

No regular public ferry service between Wallis and Futuna; travel is mainly by air.
Wallis and Futuna receives very few cruise ship visits due to limited port facilities.
River transportation options are not applicable.

Immigration & Connections

For visitors arriving by sea, like on a private yacht, immigration and customs procedures are similar to air arrivals. You must clear these upon arrival at Mata-Utu.

Port Procedures

Contact local authorities beforehand for specific requirements for private vessels.
From Mata-Utu port, taxis are usually available.

Departure Information

Exit fees are typically included in the airfare for international departures from Hihifo Airport (WLS). You should not expect to pay additional fees at the airport.

Departure Procedures

Arrive at Hihifo Airport at least 2 hours before scheduled international departure.
This allows ample time for check-in and security given limited airport facilities.
Check with Aircalin for specific check-in times.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Hihifo Airport (WLS) facilities are very limited for departing travelers. You will find a basic waiting area.

Pre-Departure Needs

There are no shops, restaurants, or lounges once you pass security.
Plan to purchase any food or drinks you need before arriving at the airport.
Pointe Vele Airport (FUT) on Futuna is extremely basic, an open-air shelter with no facilities.

Connectivity Considerations for Departure

Internet access at airports is non-existent.
Confirm your flight details and check-in online before heading to the airport.
Be aware of limited flight schedules; any delays might mean extended waits.

Have local currency for any last-minute needs outside the airport.
Bring your own snacks and beverages for comfort during airport waits.
Keep all travel documents readily accessible for security checks.

Getting Around

Public Transportation Absence

Wallis and Futuna does not have a formal public transportation system. You will not find metros, public buses, or trams operating on the islands.

Mobility & Planning

No route maps or important hubs for public transit.
No ticketing systems or fare options.
No fixed hours of operation or frequency.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are the most common form of paid transport, mainly available on Wallis Island.

Taxi Use

Taxis are usually identifiable by a "Taxi" sign.
Calling for a taxi or arranging through accommodation is typical.
Fares are often negotiated; pay in cash (CFP Francs).

Walking

Excellent way to experience islands at a relaxed pace. Mata-Utu and villages are pedestrian-friendly.

Cycling

No dedicated infrastructure; some accommodations offer bicycles. Exercise caution due to traffic and animals.

Boat Taxis

Useful for visiting outer islets in Wallis's lagoon (Faioa, Nukuhifala). Arrange through hotels or local operators.

Rental Options and Mobility

Car Rental

Rental options for personal vehicles are very limited, mostly confined to Wallis Island.

Procedures & Requirements

No major international companies (Hertz/Avis). Inquire with local agencies.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested with your national license.
Best to ask your accommodation provider or local contacts about car rental.

Driving & Road Rules

Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally low, around 50 km/h (30 mph) in villages.

Roads & Parking

Main roads on Wallis are paved but may have potholes. Futuna's roads are more basic.
Animals (pigs, chickens, dogs) frequently roam freely; drive with caution.
Parking is generally ample and free, especially outside Mata-Utu.

Accessibility & Unique Transport

Mobility Needs

Wallis and Futuna has very limited infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges. Public spaces are not typically wheelchair accessible.

Specialty Vehicles

No unique local transport vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys. Transport options are conventional.

Cycling Programs

No formal bicycle sharing programs exist. Some accommodations may provide bicycles for guests.

Navigating the Islands

Rely on taxis, shared rides, or pre-arranged transport for longer distances. Walking and cycling are good for local exploration, with caution on roads.

Getting There