Tahiti – the word alone conjures up thoughts of gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear oceans, and a tropical paradise fit for a dream.
If you’ve been fantasizing about swaying palms and colorful coral reefs, it’s time to make your fantasies come true! We’ll walk through the process of getting to Tahiti and making your tropical holiday a reality.
Things you'll find in this article
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Entry Requirements for Tahiti
All visitors to The Islands of Tahiti have to be accountable for obtaining all required documents, visas, as well as special permits for entry, as well as complying with all legalities required by nationality and transit conditions, in addition to the Carrier’s regulations.
In addition, you should monitor the validity dates of these travel papers and renew them as needed.
Visa Requirements for Tahiti
Before you enter Tahiti, you must have a passport that is active for at least 6 months after the conclusion of your trip. Depending on your nation of origin, you may require a visa to visit the country.
Citizens of many countries, like the United States, do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days. However, it is critical to examine the exact criteria for your nation, as these may change over time.
If you want a visa, you can apply at the Embassy of France or the Tahitian Consulate in your country. You will need to present certain papers, such as a valid passport, evidence of adequate finances for your trip, and a return or onward ticket.
I recommend that you review further entry regulations before your visit by visiting their Official Website.
Customs Regulations
Tahiti has severe customs laws, which you should be aware of before visiting the nation. All passengers must report any things of value they bring into the nation, including jewelry, gadgets, and cash over $1,000.
You’ll need to fill out a customs declaration form when you arrive, and you may be requested to submit it again when you depart the country.
These items are forbidden in checked and unchecked baggage:
- Live animals
- Plant material
- Flammable liquids
- Narcotics
- Poisons
- Irritants
- Materials that are oxidizing or magnetized
Getting to Tahiti
The two main airlines that fly from France and Paris to Tahiti are Air France and Air Tahiti Nui. From North America, direct flights to Tahiti are available from Los Angeles as well as San Francisco.
Air Tahiti Nui will transport you to Tahiti in less than 8 hours from Los Angeles. You may also travel nonstop from San Francisco, which takes little more than eight hours. These flights are provided by French Bee and United Airlines.
All planes from the United States will arrive at Faa’a International Airport on the island of Tahiti before proceeding on to different islands. From here, you will normally join a smaller domestic plane for the remainder of your journey.
With a flying length of a little under nine hours, the journey is more comfortable. Departure occurs in the evening, allowing you to reach at your destination in early morning hours.
If you want to avoid spending money on airfares, you must carefully consider when to visit French Polynesia, and possibly skip the months of July and August.
I recommend arriving at the airport a day before your scheduled departure time. If you are transferring from another airline, check with your travel advisor about the recommended minimum connection time.
Keep in mind that Tahiti may also be reached by cruise liner, either from international waters or from within the country itself.
Getting Around Tahiti
Taxis and rented cars are the greatest ways to navigate about Tahiti. If you intend to travel extensively across the island, renting a car is an excellent alternative.
If the hotel’s staff does not pick you up at the airport, you can take a cab to your destination. Flights to Bora Bora are also available from the airport.
The island offers a variety of guided tours and excursions, including 4×4 safaris to explore its interior.
You may also explore the island by renting a motorboat or sailboat, or by taking a trip in an outrigger sailing canoe.
And, if money is no problem, you may soar over the island in a helicopter. Apart for the bus, all of these choices should be booked in advance.
Bicycling is a great way to move around Tahiti while also getting some exercise. Many establishments will rent or lend bicycles to guests.
Aremiti and Terevau are firms that may transport you between the main city of Papeete and surrounding islands like as Bora Bora or Moorea. The ferry pier is located on Boulevard Pomare in Papeete. Fares and timetables vary depending on the route and boat provider.
Best Tips for Traveling to Tahiti
Faa’a International Airport Has a Lot of Amenities
Faa’a International Airport (PPT) is located just minutes from downtown Papeete. The airport’s features include:
- Post office
- Currency Exchange
- Two restaurants
- Duty-free store
- Gift and pearl stores
- Flower shop
- Tour operator’s offices
- Secure baggage storage
- Car rental offices
Convert your Money into Pacific francs
French Polynesia’s official currency is the Pacific Franc, often known as the CFP Franc or XPF. Although US dollars are accepted in certain locations, it is recommended to have local cash for smaller vendors and travel agents who may not accept US currencies.
Most shops take credit cards, however carrying cash is especially crucial for small sellers like market stalls.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.