Wallis and Futuna

Do you plan on vacationing in the stunning South Pacific World and be part of the happy few to explore and experience one of the isolated and little-known corners of Polynesia? Wallis and Futuna Islands will make your holiday exceptional. Discovered by Dutch and British sailors (Wallis in 1767 and Futuna in 1616), the French overseas territory of Wallis and Futuna is a south pacific archipelago, or groups of islands, situated north of Fiji and west of Samoa, consisting of three principal islands: Wallis (Uvea), Futuna and Alofi. Wallis and Futuna are the most populated of these three; Alofi lacking adequate natural resources with no permanent inhabitants, though many locals have gardens there. The 9,000 people on Wallis and 5,000 on Futuna are mostly Polynesians with a typical Polynesian culture and strong traditions of dance and music. The people are Polynesian, speaking two main dialects. On Wallis the language is close to Tongan; on Futuna it more resembles Samoan.

The volcanic islands of Wallis and Futuna, 230 km away from each other, share a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 26C and 30C. The best time to visit Wallis and Futuna is in February, June and October; the coolest month is August and the hottest is March. Rain is likely almost the whole year, and both islands experience occasional cyclones. Both Wallis and Futuna have a few small hotels and you can fly there from Noumea, Nadi, and Papeete. Settled by Polynesians nearly 3,000 years ago, Wallis (77,5 sq km), traditionally called Uvea is the capital island of Wallis and Futuna, surrounded by more than 15 uninhabited islets called Motu, mainly of coral sand and bordered by a lagoon. In this busiest and most populated island you can find many fresh water crater lakes, a sign of the island's volcanic origin, with impressive watery wildlife. Lake Lalolalo is the most spectacular of the Wallis Crater Lake forming a perfect circle with cliffs towering 30 meters above the surfact of the lake.

Located in Wallis, in the district of Hahake, the most developed Mata-Utu is the capital and the largest city of Wallis and Futuna. It's a mixture of the prosaic and the mysterious, a place where you can find restaurants, shops, small hotels, the King's Palace and post office. The people of Wallis Islands are found living on only 67% of the territory's geographical offering. The island's flora is essentially made up of fascinating palm trees and breadfruit trees while the fauna is quite limited with only one common species of lizard. The centre of Wallis Island is semi-desert. You can find no transport in Wallis instead a lot of private cars and motor scooters are ready to serve any tourist. Wallis offers a hilly landscape peaking at Mt. Lulu with a height of 475 feet.

Futuna and Alofi with an area of 137 sq km, comprising the Futuna or Hoorn group are highly volcanic, predominantly mountainous and wooden islands with small coconut plantations. The highest point in Futuna is Mont Puke (765 m) with no roads leading this point. That is why you must go on foot, but make sure to ask the way as there are numerous paths and it is quite easy to get lost.

Futuna is famous for its fresh water springs, lush jungles, wonderful beaches and remarkable ancient culture. However, there are less visitors here than in Wallis. Situated in the south-west of the island Sigavestrong> is the only large town in Futuna. The only attraction in Sigave is Sausau church, made up of three circular towers looking towards the hills. You can find no organized housing accommodation on Futuna, so plan on camping or staying with the locals.

The tiny island of Alofi, 2 km SE of Futuna, is a dream destination boasting white sand, clear water and shady trees. Plenty of locals come to this uninhabited island from Futuna every day to take care of their gardens. So do not afraid of being alone, here you will always find pure hospitality.

Mysterious islands of Wallis and Futuna are waiting for you. Enjoy and relax.