10 Best Things To Do in Tuvalu
If you’ve been thinking about taking a vacation to one of the world’s most beautiful, smallest, and most remote countries, Tuvalu is the place to go. This pristine corner of the Pacific has a lot to offer, including a tranquil atmosphere in which you can unwind. Tuvalu is a group of nine small islands with diverse marine life, including beautiful coral reefs and lagoons. Tuvalu, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, was formerly known as the Ellice Islands. Because of its remoteness, this island nation is captained, by a peaceful air supported by coconut palms, and despite its austere lifestyle, it is one of the best places to visit in 2022.
This small archipelago, located halfway between Australia and Hawaii, offers the best immediacy to the blue sea and sandy beaches. Tuvalu is a Commonwealth member, so Queen Elizabeth is the head of state. The majority of tourists arriving at Funafuti Airport are given a 30-day tourist visa. Among the many interesting things to do in Tuvalu, here is a list of the top ten things you should not miss while visiting.
Table of Contents
See Tuvalu’s Capital Funafuti
The only way to get to Tuvalu is to fly into Funafuti, the country’s only international airport. As a result, you should start your tour by visiting Funafuti, Tuvalu’s capital and largest island. There are numerous hotels and attractions in this city. While you’re here, go to Funafuti Lagoon, a 12-mile-long and 9-mile-wide body of water. You can even dive and swim in Tuvalu’s massive lagoon. To get around Funafuti, you’ll need to rent a scooter, which will set you back around $10 per day. Exploring Tuvalu on a scooter is a fantastic way to see the real Tuvalu.
Visit Tuvalu’s Unfenced Airstrip
The airstrip at Funafuti is only used twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, respectively. It’s either a public lawn or a sports domain at other times. This is, without a doubt, one of the best places in Funafuti to unwind as the cool sea breeze blows in. Tuvalu is hot during the day, so the majority of visitors arrive at this airstrip in the early evening. Locals and tourists alike can be found walking, playing volleyball, soccer, or touch football. In the evening, you might want to check out nearby landmarks like the prime minister’s residence, the solar-panelled power station, or Tuvalu House, where you can meet the Tuvaluan leader.
Funafuti’s Marine Conservation Park
Funafuti is a group of beautiful islets with incredible marine life. Take a trip to Funafuti marine conservation park, which connects six small islands, to get a sense of the island’s aquatic world. Funafuti Conservation Area, which opened in 1999, is surrounded by a large lagoon that can be reached by boat in 30 minutes. This Tuvalu must-see attraction allows you to snorkel in the turquoise waters and interact with the colourful marine life that lives beneath the surface. You’ll be surprised to see some of the most effusive and pristine water creatures right here. Tropical fish, manta rays, a variety of corals, and even endangered sea turtles can all be seen. Hundreds of crested terns and black noddies live in this conservation park, encircled by palm trees.
Visit The Philatelic Bureau of Funafuti
For stamp collectors, Funafuti’s Philatelic Bureau is a dream come true. Whether or not you collect stamps, a visit to this fascinating attraction will introduce you to a valuable collection of imprints. Some of the stamps in the collection are extremely rare, including those used in Tuvalu before and after independence. Surprisingly, you can even purchase some of the stamps you want. Under the long glass table, stamps are depicting the American Civil War and the royal wedding of Charles and Diana.
Explore The WWII Wreckage Sites
During WWII, the confederated force used Tuvalu and its archipelago to press defence and counter-attack enemies occupying the Kiribati island. The war’s wreckage and relics have now been turned into a tourist attraction. The remnants of warplanes with names like Motulalo and Nanumea can be found all over Tuvalu. While you’re here, check out the Tepuka islet bunker, which is a historic attraction.
Take a Trip To Nanumea
Nanumea is Tuvalu’s largest island, located in the northernmost prong. It was a crucial location during WWII, serving as a bomber base. Because this is the closest island to Kiribati, the Japanese base, the federal forces used it to protect the Pacific. During WWII, the residents were asked to leave their homes and were relocated to other parts of the island.
Tour The Local Handicraft Market
Tuvalu, like any other country, has a local market where souvenirs celebrate the country’s cultural heritage. Take a trip to Tuvalu’s local market to see unique artefacts, handmade necklaces, and handicrafts made from quills and shells to get a sense of the country’s rich traditions and civilisation. Most of the time, these souvenirs are made by Tuvaluan women. You can even have traditional clothing stitched for you.
Stay in An Eco Hotel
Tuvalu’s beautiful island begs you to stay in one of its eco-lodges for at least a few nights. Each of these eco-lodges allows you to get up close and personal with nature in Tuvaluan style. Some of these beachfront lodgings are even powered by the sun. These lodges, regardless of their location, offer a wide range of natural-based activities. You can go beachcombing, kayaking, and fishing while you’re here. Take a weaving class or relax in one of the hammocks at other times.
Tour Nanumanga
Nanumanga is a ring-shaped coral reef in Tuvalu. Its cave history is what distinguishes it. Underwater caves were discovered in 1986 while a few locals went scuba diving. The locals discovered the ruins of old settlements that showed signs of fire. As a result, these submerged caves are referred to as fire caves. According to legend, it was the same fire that ancient Tuvaluans used to light on the coral reefs and rocks. You can easily access these caves in Nanumanga if you know how to scuba dive.
Go See a Church
Some ancient churches can be found among Tuvalu’s many fascinating attractions. If you make friends with a local, you’ll almost certainly be invited to a Sunday church service, which is followed by Tonai, the traditional family lunch. Fresh sea fish, breadfruit loaf, and a coconut apple dessert are typical components of a Tonai. Furthermore, after lunch, you may have the opportunity to participate in Fatele, an impromptu local dancing song.
Tuvalu’s official currency is Australian dollars, even though it is minted. Because it is difficult to exchange money on the island, it is best to bring AUD. Swiping cards is also difficult. Tuvalu receives fewer than 1000 visitors per year, so the tourist infrastructure may fall short of your expectations. However, if you roll with the punches and enjoy the island life, you can still have a good time. To one’s great relief, everyone in Tuvalu speaks English.
