UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Book Attractions in Advance

Skip the lines at Tuvalu's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, lagoons, and experiences across Tuvalu.

🏝️

Funafuti Conservation Area

Explore the vast lagoon and marine biodiversity, including protected reefs and bird sanctuaries.

Especially vibrant during calm seas, perfect for snorkeling tours and eco-education centers.

🏛️

Tuvalu National Archives

Discover historical artifacts and cultural exhibits showcasing Polynesian heritage.

A blend of traditional stories and colonial influences that captivate history enthusiasts.

🌊

Niulakita Lagoon

Admire pristine coral formations and underwater caves in this remote atoll reserve.

Conservation efforts create a serene hub perfect for immersing in Pacific marine culture.

🏺

Nanumea Cultural Sites

Walk through ancient meeting houses and explore traditional village layouts.

Combining oral histories with modern preservation in a dynamic island setting.

🐦

Niutao Bird Sanctuary

Uncover migratory bird habitats and wetlands highlighting Tuvalu's ecological roots.

Less crowded, offering a peaceful alternative to main atolls.

📜

Vaipouli Village Heritage

Visit this cultural center in Nui, a testament to Tuvalu's storytelling and craft traditions.

Fascinating for those interested in folklore and Polynesian innovation.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures

🌴

Funafuti Lagoon

Snorkel through crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for adventure seekers with guided dives to shipwrecks.

Perfect for multi-day explorations with scenic viewpoints and marine life spotting.

🏖️

Tepuka Island Beaches

Relax on white-sand shores with palm-fringed walks and seaside picnics.

Family-friendly fun with fresh coconut water and gentle ocean breezes in the dry season.

🐠

Coral Reefs of Nanumanga

Explore underwater gardens via kayaking paths, attracting scuba divers and photographers.

Serene spot for relaxation and fishwatching with diverse ecosystems.

🌺

Nui Atoll Mangroves

Wander coastal wetlands near villages, perfect for easy hikes and family outings.

This island ecosystem offers a quick nature escape with tidal trails.

🚣

Amatuku Channel

Kayak along the passage with stunning lagoons and islets, ideal for water sports.

Hidden gem for boat tours and beachside gatherings.

🐚

Vaitupu Shell Beaches

Discover colorful shell-strewn shores and lagoons with walking routes.

Coastal tours connecting to Tuvalu's marine heritage and island charm.

Tuvalu by Region

🏝️ Funafuti Atoll (Central)

  • Best For: Urban island life, lagoons, and cultural hubs with charming villages like Vaiaku.
  • Key Destinations: Funafuti, Fongafale, and Te Ava Pua Pua for historic sites and vibrant community events.
  • Activities: Lagoon boat tours, snorkeling trips, cultural dances, and cycling along coastal paths.
  • Best Time: Dry season for calm waters (May-Oct) and festivals (June-August), with mild 25-30°C weather.
  • Getting There: Well-connected by domestic flights from Fiji, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.

🌊 Northern Atolls

  • Best For: Remote paradise, reefs, and traditional fishing as the nation's ecological heart.
  • Key Destinations: Nanumea and Niutao for lagoons, nearby Nanumanga for village immersion.
  • Activities: Reef diving, birdwatching, local craft markets, and community feasts.
  • Best Time: Year-round, but dry season (May-Oct) for fewer rains and events like island games.
  • Getting There: Funafuti Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.

🏝️ Southern Atolls

  • Best For: Secluded beaches and Polynesian influences, featuring pristine mangroves.
  • Key Destinations: Vaitupu, Nui, and Niulakita for nature and traditional villages.
  • Activities: Kayaking, shell collecting, visiting meeting houses, and local storytelling sessions in scenic lagoons.
  • Best Time: Dry season for activities (May-Oct) and wet season for lush greenery (Nov-Apr), 25-30°C.
  • Getting There: Rent a car or boat for flexibility in exploring remote atolls and communities.

🌴 Outer Islands (East)

  • Best For: Untouched wilderness and cultural authenticity with a relaxed Pacific vibe.
  • Key Destinations: Nukufetau, Nukulaelae, and Funafala for coral gardens and water sports.
  • Activities: Beachcombing, fishing expeditions, traditional weaving, and island hopping by outrigger.
  • Best Time: Dry months (May-Oct) for sunbathing, with warm 25-30°C and trade winds.
  • Getting There: Inter-island ferries from Funafuti, with scheduled boat services connecting outer communities.

Sample Tuvalu Itineraries

🚀 7-Day Tuvalu Highlights

Days 1-2: Funafuti

Arrive in Funafuti, explore the lagoon, visit the conservation area for snorkeling, sample fresh seafood, and experience village landmarks.

Days 3-4: Northern Atolls

Boat to Nanumea for reef tours and cultural walks, then head to Niutao for bird sanctuary visits and community markets.

Days 5-6: Southern Atolls & Outer Islands

Travel to Vaitupu for mangrove kayaking and beaches, with a day trip to Nukufetau's coral gardens and fishing spots.

Day 7: Return to Funafuti

Final day in Funafuti for cultural dances, last-minute crafts shopping, and departure, ensuring time for lagoon relaxation.

🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer

Days 1-2: Funafuti Immersion

Funafuti city tour covering the airstrip, marine park, conservation center, and local food markets.

Days 3-4: Northern Atolls

Nanumea for historic sites including boat rides and traditional architecture, then Niutao for sanctuary visits and vibrant communities.

Days 5-6: Southern Atolls

Vaitupu for eco-tours and shell beaches, then Nui for mangrove exploration and village immersion.

Days 7-8: Outer Islands Activities

Full outdoor adventure with kayaking in Nukufetau, reef snorkeling, and stays in remote island villages.

Days 9-10: Eastern Atolls & Return

Relaxation in Nukulaelae with beach time, cultural feasts, and scenic boat rides before returning to Funafuti.

🏙️ 14-Day Complete Tuvalu

Days 1-3: Funafuti Deep Dive

Comprehensive Funafuti exploration including WWII sites, food tours, lagoon walks, and community institution visits.

Days 4-6: Northern Circuit

Nanumea for reefs and crafts, Niutao for birds and stories, Nanumanga for diving and island exploration.

Days 7-9: Southern Adventures

Vaitupu mangrove hikes, Nui cultural tours, Niulakita kayaking experiences, and storytelling in scenic lagoons.

Days 10-12: Outer & Eastern Islands

Nukufetau beaches and fishing, Nukulaelae for weaving, Funafala for coral gardens and relaxation.

Days 13-14: Central Finale

Return to Funafuti for cultural sites and markets, final experiences with last-minute shopping before departure.

Top Activities & Experiences

🚣

Lagoon Boat Tours

Cruise through Funafuti's azure waterways for unique perspectives of coral atolls.

Available year-round with evening tours offering romantic ambiance and sunset views.

🐟

Traditional Fishing Trips

Join locals to catch reef fish using outrigger canoes and sustainable methods across atolls.

Learn ancient techniques from community elders and expert guides.

🌺

Cultural Craft Workshops

Create traditional Tuvaluan mats and baskets in village workshops with local artisans.

Learn about pandanus weaving and Polynesian design techniques.

🏄

Snorkeling Expeditions

Explore Nanumea's reefs and underwater caves on guided paths with gear rentals widely available.

Popular routes include lagoon passes and atoll trails with calm waters throughout.

🎶

Island Dance Performances

Discover fatele dances at community halls and cultural festivals in Vaitupu.

Traditional songs, rhythms, and modern Tuvaluan artists with guided sessions available.

🏠

Village Homestays

Experience daily life in Niutao villages and remote atoll communities.

Many hosts offer immersive stays with meals and storytelling for authentic experiences.

Explore More Tuvalu Guides