Tokelau 3 Day Itinerary

Tokelau Itinerary: 3 Days in this Hidden Gem

Day 1: Arrival and Island Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Fagalu Bay on the island of Fakaofo, Tokelau’s capital
  • Take a short walk to the Government Office to register your arrival and obtain a free permit (required for all visitors)
  • Visit the nearby Tokelau Museum to learn about the country’s history, culture, and traditions

Afternoon

  • Explore Fakaofo Island by bicycle or on foot, enjoying the scenic coastal views and meeting friendly locals
  • Stop at the Fakaofo Village, where you can see traditional Tokelauan houses and experience the island’s laid-back atmosphere
  • Visit the Local Market to try some fresh coconut water and local snacks

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner of fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the island, enjoying the peaceful evening atmosphere

Things to Know:

  • Tokelau is a non-self governing territory of New Zealand, with a population of less than 1,500 people
  • The official languages are Tokelauan and English, but many locals also speak Samoan and Tuvaluan
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting villages or attending cultural events

Day 2: Snorkeling and Relaxation

Morning

  • Take a boat trip to the Fakaofo Lagoon, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life
  • Go snorkeling to explore the coral reefs and spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures

Afternoon

  • Return to Fakaofo Island and relax on the beautiful Uotu Beach, with its white sand and palm trees
  • Take a leisurely swim or try your hand at coconut husking with the locals

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Tokelauan dinner, featuring dishes such as fa’ausi (steamed pudding) and pulenuku (grilled fish)
  • Attend a local cultural event or dance performance, if scheduled during your visit

Transportation:

  • The only way to reach Tokelau is by boat; there are no airports or regular ferry services
  • Book a passage on the Tokelauan ferry, which runs between Fakaofo and Apia, Samoa ( approx. 24 hours)

Day 3: Island Hopping

Morning

  • Take a short boat trip to Atafu Island, known for its picturesque lagoon and coral reefs
  • Go snorkeling or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon

Afternoon

  • Visit the Atafu Village, where you can experience the island’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals
  • Take a leisurely walk around the island, enjoying the scenic views and spotting local wildlife such as sea birds and coconut crabs

Evening

  • Return to Fakaofo Island and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the local restaurants
  • Reflect on your amazing experiences in Tokelau and the unforgettable hospitality of its people

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of New Zealand, Australia, and some Pacific island nations do not need a visa to enter Tokelau
  • All other nationalities require a visa, which can be obtained from the Tokelau Liaison Office in Apia, Samoa

Other Things of Interest:

  • The unique Tokelauan architecture, featuring traditional houses with thatched roofs and modern buildings with Pacific Island flair
  • The vibrant local art scene, showcasing traditional crafts such as woodcarvings, shell jewelry, and woven baskets
  • The opportunities to participate in community-based tourism initiatives, supporting local development and cultural preservation