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French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of the French Republic located in the Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 118 dispersed islands and atolls, with a population of approximately 285,000 inhabitants. French Polynesia is the chance to enjoy picturesque beaches and lush plantations. Popular attractions include the Coral Grand in Bora Bora and Va’iete Square in Tahiti.
Cheap flights to French Polynesia are now available for a limited period of time, so prepare to be amazed by the island bliss. Papeete, the majestic capital, is the home of Fa'a'ā International Airport (PTT), which is a 20-minute drive from the city centre. Fa'a'ā International Airport serves a multitude of airlines, including Air New Zealand and Air Taihiti Nui. Popular international flights depart from Cape Town and Johannesburg. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Papeete is approximately 27 hours.
A majestic paradise awaits in the Pacific Ocean, with surreal sights and sounds to embrace by travellers making their way to the islands. French Polynesia is a network of islands, each with its unique charisma to excite all that wish to explore its culture.
A plethora of fresh cuisine can be expected on the islands. French Polynesia delivers exotic dishes for those who wish to get a taste of the culture. Brace yourself for the very best of its island cuisine, including sweet papayas and mangoes.
The Polynesian waters are home to approximately 800 fish species, that add beautiful diversity and colour to the island. Take the opportunity to see humpback whales or swim with black-tip reef sharks, lemon sharks and manta rays.
Essential details you need to know before your trip
| Currency | CFP Franc (XPF) |
|---|---|
| Exchange Rate | 1 ZAR = 7.85 XPF |
| Language | French / Tahitian |
| Hub Airport | Fa'a'ā International Airport (PTT) |
| Airline | Air Tahiti |
| Time Zone | GMT -10 |
| Travel Adaptor | Type A / B / E |
You can go to French Polynesia anytime you wish; however, some periods are more ideal than others. Knowing the best times does make your vacation much more enjoyable. July and August sees the best weather (balmy and dry), but this means that there is an influx of tourists seizing the unbelievable weather and accompanying picturesque island scenery. To witness Tahitian culture in full bloom, attend the Heiva I Tahiti festival in July. The outer islands are at their capacity during August, therefore, you are encouraged to book well in advance if you wish to visit during this time. Austral winter (May to October) is the dry season, with temperatures averaging around 28 degrees Celsius. The Austral summer (November to April) is the wet season and tourists can expect rain along with concentrated sunshine. Tourists should note that storms can arise between November and March.
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall level (mm) per month
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low °C | 24°C | 24°C | 24°C | 24°C | 23°C | 22°C | 22°C | 22°C | 22°C | 23°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| High °C | 31°C | 31°C | 32°C | 31°C | 30°C | 30°C | 29°C | 29°C | 29°C | 30°C | 30°C | 30°C |
| Rainfall (mm) | 253 | 210 | 195 | 111 | 117 | 73 | 62 | 52 | 59 | 102 | 125 | 328 |
Turquoise - the colour which best describes French Polynesia. A beautiful stretch of islands occupies the Pacific Ocean. It is an ethereal escape into a world far apart from the rest of the continents. French Polynesia has so much summery fun to dazzle all that journey to its multitude of islands. Along with its breath-taking scenery is the immense culture of the locals that is sure to have you mesmerised for a lifetime.
Papeete is located on the island of Tahiti, which is the largest island in French Polynesia. Papeete is a multicultural city and has a bustling harbour. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of local culture pulsating through the streets. Outdoor adventure seekers will delight in the many picturesque hiking trails. Popular attractions include Marché de Pape’ete, Jardins Botaniques and Lagoonarium.
With vast beauty that will deeply move you, Bora Bora lives up to all expectations. This magical destination will surely conjure the happiness you truly seek. Mountain peaks stand tall and ready to greet all visitors who are lucky to witness such beauty. Bora Bora affords you the ideal space and time to relax and unwind. Surrender to the majestic elements of this Pacific Ocean destination and breath in the fresh island air. Popular attractions include Monte Otemanu, Plage Matira and Circle Island Road.
Endless coral beaches with white and pink sands can be found on Tikehau. It is an ideal destination for divers as the underwater world reveals its hidden treasures. Popular attractions include Motu Puarua and Tuherahera.
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South African passport holders do require a passport to enter French Polynesia. Your passport must have 6 months validity, and have at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps.
French Polynesia Embassy in Cape Town:
78 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
All travellers going to French Polynesia must be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio and your yearly flu shot. The government of French Polynesia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination, if you are arriving from a country with the risk of yellow fever.
French Polynesia is a safe destination to tour. Tourists are still encouraged to remain cautious throughout their trip.
Safety tips for French Polynesia:
• Do not leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
• Do not flash any electronics, including cameras, tablets and cellphones.
• Bring along a pair of sandshoes which is needed for walking on the coral.
• When snorkeling, be aware of moray eels.
| Item | Cape Town | Johannesburg | Papeete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal, inexpensive restaurant | R 90 | R 100 | R 285 |
| Domestic beer (0.5 litre draught) | R 22 | R 25 | R 91 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | R 19 | R 20 | R 41 |
| Taxi 1km (normal tariff) | R 10 | R 12 | R 127 |
| Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) | R 38 | R 38 | R 111 |
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