Getting Around Tahiti
The best way to get around Tahiti is by the affordable L'Truck bus. If you're planning on doing a lot of travel throughout the island, a rental car is another good option. A bike can be a trusty steed too. For journeys to other French Polynesian islands, you'll have to book passage on a boat or airplane. Most travelers arrive into Faa'a International Airport (PPT), which is a three-mile jaunt from the capital city of Pape'ete. If a representative from your hotel isn't picking you up at PPT, you can hop into an L'Truck public bus or take one of the expensive taxis to your destination.
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L'Truck |
To get a taste of some local Tahitian culture, you should board the L'Truck bus. Not only will this form of transit give you a great introduction to the island, it's also cheap. L'Truck offers several routes: The red and white buses travel five miles along the island's west coast; the green and white buses travel six miles along the east side of the island; and the long-distance orange and white buses travel all the way around the island. In Pape'ete, you can catch the west coast buses near the marketplace on Rue du Marechal Foch and the east coast buses from Boulevard Pomare opposite the cruise ship dock. Along the routes, you can simply flag an L'Truck down from the side of the road. Expect to pay the driver before disembarking, and fares are based on distance traveled. You shouldn't expect to pay more than 100 to 200 XPF (about $2 USD) a trip. |
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Taxi |
As you might imagine, taxis are a rather expensive way of getting around the island. But they can be a good option if you're in a bind. You'll find them queuing at the airport and lined up in Pape'ete's Centre Valma. You can also hail them on the streets. You'll pay roughly 3,000 XPF (or about $33 USD) to go just a few miles. |
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Bicycle |
For a scenic view of Tahiti, as well as some exercise, a bicycle is a good way to get around. Many accommodations will either rent or lend bikes out to guests. But keep in mind that traffic can be pretty heavy, especially around Pape'ete. |
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Ferry |
A couple of ferry companies—Aremiti and Moorea Ferry—will boat passengers between the capital city of Pape'ete and nearby islands like Bora Bora and Moorea. You'll find the ferry dock on Boulevard Pomare. Fares and schedules depend on the route and the ferry company. |
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Airplane |
To get from Tahiti to other destinations in French Polynesia, airplanes are an efficient mode of transportation. Several airlines—Air Tahiti, Air Moorea and Air New Zealand—offer regular service to destinations like Tahiti's sister island Moorea and Auckland. |
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Car |
If you're staying more than a few days and want to explore the island, you might want your own set of wheels. You can book a rental car at PPT Airport or in the capital city of Pape'ete. Daily rates start around 7,000 XPF (the equivalent of about $78 USD). |
Entry & Exit Requirements
To visit French Polynesia, you'll need a U.S. passport valid for six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you're planning to stay in the country for more than 90 days, you'll also need to acquire a visa. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website.
Plan Your Trip to Tahiti
