French Polynesia: FAQs
Our frequently asked questions about travel to French Polynesia. If you have any other questions, please contact your travel designer or concierge.
Do I need a visa?
Visitors must hold a return flight ticket to their resident country or to at least two more continuing destinations. Passports must be valid for at least three months (six for French and Japanese passport holders) beyond the date of departure.
No visa is required for stays up to one month for U.S, Canadian, French, NZ, Australian and Japanese passport holders. A useful website for checking whether you require a visa is visahq.com however we strongly advise you consult the details with the relevant embassies which will be able to give you the exact detail, and that you do this at least two months prior to your trip.
Will I need travel insurance?
All travellers should check to be certain they are covered by their own medical insurance including a travel policy. We highly recommend that you take out trip cancellation insurance and medical evacuation. This will cover you if you must cancel for medical or family emergency reasons, and provides additional coverage should you need medical attention while on the trip.
Clients have previously booked through Allianz, CSA Travel Insurance or Travel Guard, however we do not recommend a specific insurance broker and we do not sell travel insurance.
Remember to first check with your credit card provider who often offer travel insurance as part of their package.
What currency should I bring?
The currency is French Pacific Franc. The airport has an ATM and banks are generally open on weekdays only. International hotels will also exchange money but the rate may not be as good. You can also use your credit or debit card to pay for anything at your resort.
Electrical plugs
French Polynesia uses a flat 3 or 2 pin plug (same as USA) or 2 pin round plugs (same as Europe), with a mains voltage of 110 or 220 Volts (60 Hz) depending on the island and type of accommodation. Adaptors/converters are often available at hotels for purchase locally.
When will I receive my travel pack and itinerary?
You’ll be sent your travel pack about 1-2 months before you travel with information about the destinations you are visiting. Your confirmed itinerary summary will be sent to you by email before your trip. All vouchers for your tours and transportation will be provided to you when you arrive in French Polynesia with a copy of your most up-to-date detailed itinerary and schedule.
What are the tipping suggestions?
Tipping is not customary in Polynesian culture and is not expected. However, tipping is welcomed for exemplary service.
What is the weather like in French Polynesia?
The islands enjoy a pleasant tropical climate. On average, the temperatures are always high. Tahiti gets an average of eight hours of sun per day, with temperatures ranging from 75 to 86 degrees F. There are two main seasons: The dry season occurs from April through October with the coming of the southeast trade winds. It is also known as the austral winter and brings a relative coolness to Tahiti’s temperatures during the peak season. A warmer and more humid season goes from November to March. The high islands are also more humid than the atolls because they have plenty of vegetation, while the atolls are more exposed to trade winds. Further away from the equator, the Austral and Gambier archipelagoes, located down south, enjoy cooler temperatures.
