Oceania
Tuvalu
Nine tiny, low-lying atolls and one of the least-visited countries on earth: Funafuti's lagoon, its marine conservation area and slow village life. A few flights a week from Fiji, cash only and very basic services.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa31 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyAUDUS$1 ≈ A$1.44Details
- Price level89%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType I220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency911Police 911 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 000
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink boiled or bottled water and avoid ice; most water is collected rain.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedConservative and church-centred; same-sex couples should be discreet.Details
- DrivingOn the leftVisitors can drive on a home licence for about 2 weeks; most rent scooters on Funafuti.
When to visit Tuvalu
May–October is drier and less humid. November–April brings heavy rain, cyclone risk and king tides.
Good to know
Entry
- Many nationalities get a visitor permit on arrival; your passport needs 6 months' validity.
- Fiji Airways flies from Suva only a few times a week; build in buffer days for cancellations.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Importing, growing or supplying drugs brings fines and prison
Etiquette
- Cover shoulders and knees; swim in shorts and a T-shirt
- Sunday is for church and rest; keep activities quiet
- Ask before entering a falekaupule (meeting hall)
Tipping
Not expected.
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.