Tokelau-7-day-itinerary

Tokelau Travel Itinerary (7 days)

Day 1: Arrival and Atafu Island Exploration

  • Arrival: Arrive at Faleasata Airport on the island of Atafu. Be prepared for a small, rural airport experience.
  • Places to Go: Visit the Atafu Village to see traditional Tokelauan houses made from coconut thatch and wood. Explore the village’s only road, which runs along the west coast of the atoll.
  • Activities:
    • Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches.
    • Snorkeling or swimming in the lagoon.
    • Visit a local family for a traditional meal and to learn about Tokelauan culture.
  • Things to Know: Atafu has no accommodation other than a few guesthouses. Book these in advance as they are limited.
  • Visa Requirements: No visa is required for tourists from many countries, but check with your government’s travel advisory website for the latest information.
  • Transportation: The island is small enough to walk or cycle around.

Day 2: More of Atafu Island

  • Places to Go: Visit the Papaitai Beach, known for its white sand and clear waters. Explore the island’s interior by walking through the coconut groves.
  • Activities:
    • Try your hand at traditional Tokelauan crafts, such as weaving or wood carving.
    • Attend a local dance performance in the evening.

Day 3: Travel to Nukunonu Island

  • Travel: Take a small boat from Atafu to Nukunonu. This journey can be rough and may take several hours, depending on the weather.
  • Places to Go: Explore the Nukunonu Village and see its smaller scale compared to Atafu.
  • Activities:
    • Visit the island’s church and learn about Tokelauan Christianity.
    • Enjoy the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Day 4-5: Nukunonu Island

  • Places to Go: Visit the Papalotiti Beach on the southwest side of the atoll. Explore the interior by walking through the coconut groves and mangrove forests.
  • Activities:
    • Engage in fishing or snorkeling.
    • Attend a traditional Tokelauan dance performance.

Day 6-7: Return to Atafu Island

  • Travel: Take the boat back to Atafu, where you can spend your last days exploring any areas of the island you missed initially.
  • Places to Go: Visit the Atafu Wharf and see the small fishing boats.
  • Activities:
    • Spend your last day relaxing on the beach or in a local guesthouse.
    • Consider attending a farewell dinner at one of the guesthouses.

Things to Know:

  • Health and Safety: Be prepared for basic medical facilities, especially for serious health issues.
  • Currency: The New Zealand dollar is widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used.
  • Language: Tokelauan and English are spoken by most residents. Learning a few words of Tokelauan can go far in improving your interaction with the locals.

Transportation:

  • Getting There: Fly to Apia, Samoa, then take a domestic flight to the Tokelaun islands.
  • Local Transport: Use small boats for inter-island travel and walking or cycling on each island.

This itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive look at what it’s like to travel in Tokelau. Enjoy your trip!