Trip Overview
Experience one of the world's most remote and least-visited nations in this intimate two-day escape to Tuvalu. This relaxed itinerary takes you through the capital atoll of Funafuti, where you'll discover pristine lagoons, warm Polynesian hospitality, and a slower pace of life that feels worlds away from modern chaos. Explore traditional island culture, snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and witness daily life in one of the planet's smallest countries. With limited tourist infrastructure, this journey offers authentic cultural immersion and natural beauty without crowds. You'll experience traditional dancing, local crafts, and the unique challenge of exploring a nation threatened by climate change, making this a meaningful and memorable Pacific adventure.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Lagoon Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
Vaiaku village, Funafuti (A family-run guesthouse with lagoon views)
Limited accommodation options make guesthouses the authentic choice, offering home-cooked meals and genuine cultural exchange with Tuvaluan hosts
Island Hopping & Farewell
Where to Stay Tonight
Same guesthouse in Vaiaku (Family-run guesthouse)
Staying at the same accommodation maximizes your limited time and strengthens connections with your local hosts
Practical Information
Getting Around
Tuvalu has minimal infrastructure, and Funafuti is small enough to explore on foot or bicycle. Boat transport to outer islets must be arranged through your accommodation or local contacts. The main island has a few motorcycles and trucks for hire, but walking is the primary mode of transport. Inter-island travel requires small aircraft or boats, which operate on irregular schedules. Most visitors explore only Funafuti during a weekend visit due to limited transportation options and time constraints.
Book Ahead
Book accommodation well in advance (limited guesthouses exist), confirm flights multiple times (Fiji Airways operates limited service), arrange airport pickup, and communicate boat tour requests to your hosts before arrival
Packing Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen, snorkeling gear, Australian dollars in cash, modest clothing respecting island culture, sun protection, insect repellent, waterproof bag, basic medications
Total Budget
$340-420 for two days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay with a local family in a home-stay arrangement rather than a guesthouse, prepare some of your own meals with ingredients from the small shops, skip organized boat tours in favor of swimming from shore, and walk everywhere rather than hiring any motorized transport. Focus on free cultural experiences like attending church services and community gatherings.
Luxury Upgrade
While Tuvalu lacks luxury resorts, upgrade your experience by chartering private boats for all lagoon excursions, arranging personalized cultural performances and feasts with local families, hiring a local guide for exclusive access to community events, and bringing premium snorkeling or diving equipment. Consider extending to three days to reduce the rushed feeling and enjoy more unscheduled island time.
Family-Friendly
Children will love the safe lagoon swimming, snorkeling in shallow areas, and the novelty of playing on an airport runway. Arrange shorter boat trips to nearby islets rather than all-day excursions, pack familiar snacks as local food may be unfamiliar to young palates, and focus on beach activities. The welcoming Tuvaluan culture is very family-oriented, and locals will warmly embrace traveling children.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Tuvalu