WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Tuvalu

Location

Climate

Tuvalu is a small archipelago in the South Pacific, made up of nine coral islands. If you're planning a trip there in the near future, it's a good idea to find out about the different seasons and cultural events that take place there.

Low and high season in Tuvalu

The climate in Tuvalu is tropical, with an average annual temperature of around 30°C. However, there are seasonal variations to take into account when planning your trip. There are generally two main seasons:

• Dry season The summer season runs from May to October, when the trade winds blow. Temperatures are slightly cooler, but still pleasant for enjoying beaches and outdoor activities. This is also the period with the least rainfall.
• Wet season It runs from November to April, and is characterized by frequent showers and more intense heat. There is also a risk of cyclones during this period.

Thus, the dry season is generally considered the best time to visit Tuvalu, especially to enjoy its paradisiacal beaches. However, if you're prepared for a bit of humidity and want to avoid the crowds, the wet season may also be a good option.

Public holidays in Tuvalu

As in every country, Tuvalu has specific public holidays on which activities may be curtailed. So it's a good idea to be aware of them so you can plan your stay as effectively as possible:

• January 1st New Year's Day
• March/April (variable) : Good Friday and Easter Monday
• April 25 Anzac Day, commemorating Australian and New Zealand veterans of the First World War
• May 10 : Mother's Day
• September 8 Commonwealth Day
• October 1st Children's party
• November 1st : Toussaint
• December 25 : Christmas
• December 26 : Boxing Day

Note that certain local or family festivities can also take place throughout the year, with a punctual impact on local services and businesses.

Major cultural events in Tuvalu

Tuvalu has a rich culture, and many important events are held here every year. Here are some of the festivities not to be missed during your visit to the archipelago:

Independence Day

Celebrated on October 1stTuvalu's Independence Day is marked by official ceremonies, parades, dance performances and traditional music. It's the perfect opportunity to discover the local culture and join in the festivities with the locals.

Te Eimuli Festival

Organized in November or DecemberThis festival celebrates Tuvaluan customs and traditions. Sports competitions, craft exhibitions and artistic performances are on the program during this event, which celebrates the richness of the local heritage.

Christmas party

As in many countries, Christmas is celebrated in Tuvalu on December 25. The festivities generally begin the evening before, with hymns and songs performed by the locals. On the big day, families gather around large meals featuring typical dishes such as pork, fish and taro.

New Year

Finally, the passage to the New Year is also an occasion for festive celebrations in Tuvalu. Visit December 31On this day, the locals get together to sing and dance until midnight, before watching fireworks and sharing a meal with family and friends.

Immigration statistics for Tuvalu: a popular destination for migrants

Located between Australia and Hawaii, the islands of Tuvalu are attracting more and more people looking to settle there. According to latest available statisticsTuvalu's current population is estimated at around 11,000. A significant proportion of these are migrants from neighboring countries and other parts of the world.

Proportion of migrants in total population

According to official figures, migrants accounted for around 15 % of Tuvalu's total population in 2020. This proportion has risen significantly in recent years, from just 5 % in 2000 to almost 10 % in 2010. The main reasons for immigration are employment, education, family and political asylum.

Origin of migrants

Migrants to Tuvalu mainly come from neighboring Pacific countries such as Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. However, there are also nationals from other parts of the world, notably Asia, Europe and America.

Tuvalu's most popular visas: a variety of options for migrants

Tuvalu offers different types of visa to meet the needs of people wishing to settle there temporarily or permanently. Here is an overview of most popular visa categories :

• Visitor visa : Ideal for short-stay visitors to Tuvalu, this visa is valid for up to three months and can be extended under certain conditions.
• Work visa: issued to foreigners who have found employment in Tuvalu, this visa is generally valid for two years and can be renewed.
• Student visa: for international students wishing to study in Tuvalu, this visa is valid for the duration of the study program and can also be extended.
• Family reunification visa : Available to family members of Tuvaluan citizens or permanent residents, this visa enables them to join their relatives and settle in the country.
• Humanitarian visa : granted to refugees and asylum seekers, this visa offers them temporary protection and the possibility of living and working in Tuvalu.

It is important to note that nationals of member countries of the Pacific Islands Forum are entitled to a special visa exemption regimeallowing them to enter and stay in Tuvalu without prior formalities.

International tourism in Tuvalu: a booming sector

Despite its modest size and geographical isolation, the number of tourists to Tuvalu increases every year. Visit international tourism statistics are evidence of this trend:

Number of international tourist arrivals

According to official data, the number of international tourist arrivals to Tuvalu has grown steadily in recent years. In 2010, there were around 1,000 arrivals, while by 2019, this figure had risen to almost 3,000 visitors. Although these figures remain modest compared with more popular tourist destinations, they attest to a growing positive momentum for the tourism sector in Tuvalu.

Tourist profile

The majority of tourists to Tuvalu come from neighboring Pacific countries, such as Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. However, there has also been an increase in the number of visitors from Asia, Europe and North America.

Tourist attractions and activities

Tuvalu's natural and cultural attractions appeal to tourists in search of a complete change of scenery. Among the main attractions are :

• Funafuti lagoon, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling
• Outer islands offering pristine beaches and exceptional marine wildlife
• Discover local culture and traditions through guided tours and dance and music performances.