Travel Essentials › Tuvalu
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Type I, 230 V. Emergency: Police 911, Ambulance 999, Fire 000. Tipping: Not expected or customary. Tap water: Drink bottled or boiled water; rainwater and tap water are not reliably safe.
Type I, 230 V
| Police | 911 |
| Ambulance | 999 |
| Fire | 000 |
Not expected or customary.
Greetings. Say "Talofa" with a smile and a gentle handshake. Keep greetings calm and polite.
Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees in public and villages. Swimwear is for the beach, and women swim in shorts and a t-shirt.
Sunday is for church. Most people attend church, shops close, and activities like loud music or sport are avoided. Ask before joining a service.
Ask before you photograph. Ask permission before photographing people, meeting houses or ceremonies, and take off shoes when entering a home or meeting house.
Tuvalu is very safe, with little crime. The main risks are heat, sun, reef cuts, and limited medical care.
Overpriced rides or tours. Agree the price first; taxis have no meters and few vehicles are available.
Unlicensed boat trips. Use trusted operators with life jackets; lagoon currents can be strong.
Women travelers. Dress modestly and avoid isolated areas at night; unwanted attention is uncommon.
Criminalized
Sex between men is illegal under the Penal Code, with up to 14 years in prison, although the law is not reported to be enforced. Keep a low profile.
| Coffee (café) | AUD 5 | $3.20 |
| Local bus or metro ride | AUD 1 | $0.65 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | AUD 20 | $13 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | AUD 80 | $52 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | AUD 180 | $115 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | AUD 160 | $105 |
2026-09
May to October is the drier, breezier season. November to April is wetter, with higher cyclone risk and king tides that can flood low areas.