WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Wallis and Futuna

Location

Climate

You've decided to explore the islands of Wallis and Futuna and are wondering when the best time to go is? Discover the different seasons, major cultural events and public holidays that punctuate the lives of the inhabitants of this French archipelago in the South Pacific.

Climate and seasons in Wallis and Futuna

Located in the Pacific Ocean between Fiji and Samoa, the islands of Wallis and Futuna enjoy a tropical climate that varies with the seasons. There are two main periods:

• The hot season: November to April, with average temperatures between 26 and 32°C and high humidity. This is also the rainy and cyclone season.
• The cool season: May to October, with milder temperatures averaging between 23 and 28°C. This period is marked by dry, sunny weather.

To make the most of Wallis & Futuna's natural and cultural attractions, we recommend that you opt for the cooler season, when the climate is more pleasant and there is less risk of cyclones.

Major cultural events in Wallis and Futuna

Wallis and Futuna are islands rich in tradition and culture, which are expressed throughout the year in a variety of events and celebrations.

Patron saint's day of Saint-Pierre Chanel

This religious festival is held on April 28 in honor of Saint-Pierre Chanel, the first martyr and patron saint of Oceania. A solemn mass is celebrated and the locals gather to share a traditional meal.

Fête du Territoire

July 29 marks the anniversary of the signing of Wallis and Futuna's status as an overseas territory in 1961. Festivities include parades, traditional dances and songs, and sports competitions.

French national holiday

As in the rest of France, July 14th is celebrated in Wallis and Futuna with patriotic events, fireworks displays and other entertainment.

Christmas and New Year

The end-of-year festivities are an opportunity for the people of Wallis and Futuna to get together with their families over a big meal and celebrate Christmas and the New Year together.

Public holidays in Wallis and Futuna

Here is a list of the main public holidays in Wallis and Futuna:

• January 1: New Year's Day
• January 6: Epiphany
• February/March: Easter Monday (date varies)
• May 1: Labour Day
• May 8: Victory in 1945
• May/June: Ascension (date varies)
• May/June: Whit Monday (date varies)
• July 14: French national holiday
• August 15: Assumption
• July 29: Fête du Territoire
• November 1: All Saints' Day
• November 11: Armistice 1918
• December 25: Christmas

Low and high season in Wallis and Futuna

Due to climatic conditions, the low and high tourist seasons generally coincide with the cool and warm seasons:

• Low season From November to April, during the warm season. Prices for accommodation and tourist activities may be more affordable during this period, but the weather is less conducive to outdoor activities.
• High season From May to October, during the cool season. The pleasant climate attracts more visitors, and prices are generally higher. It's advisable to book accommodation and activities in advance to ensure availability.

Wallis-et-Futuna, a French overseas territory in the South Pacific, attracts visitors and immigrants every year in search of a peaceful, exotic lifestyle. Let's discover the main immigration statisticsthe most popular visas as well as international tourism figures in Wallis and Futuna.

Immigration statistics for Wallis and Futuna

Due to its small size and geographical remoteness, Wallis and Futuna does not welcome as many immigrants as other more popular destinations. However, over the years, the territory has seen an evolution in its immigrant population. Here are some key figures:

• About 4 % of the population of Wallis and Futuna are foreigners.
• The majority of these immigrants come from the French Polynesiathe New CaledoniaFrench mainland and other Pacific countries.
• The main reasons for immigration to Wallis and Futuna include job search, family reunification and study..

Number of immigrants

The number of immigrants to Wallis and Futuna has increased steady increase since 2000. This trend is partly explained by the region's economic development, which offers new job opportunities for foreigners. However, the immigration rate remains relatively low compared to other destinations.

Most popular visas in Wallis and Futuna

To visit Wallis and Futuna, foreign nationals generally need to obtain an appropriate visa depending on the duration and purpose of their visit. Here are the main types of visa issued:

• Short-stay visa This visa is intended for people wishing to stay in Wallis and Futuna for a maximum period of 90 days. It is suitable for tourists, family visitors or participants in cultural and sporting events.
• Long-stay visa This visa allows foreigners to stay in the country for more than 90 days. It is often requested by those wishing to work, study or join a family member in Wallis and Futuna.
• Temporary residence permit Foreign nationals settled in Wallis and Futuna for a fixed period may apply for this card for a maximum period of one year. It is renewable and may be accompanied by a work permit.
• Resident's card This card is for foreigners wishing to settle permanently in Wallis and Futuna. It is valid for ten years, and entitles the holder to work in the territory without restriction.

Visa application acceptance rate

The acceptance rate for visa applications varies according to the type of visa and the nationality of the applicant. As a general rule, short-stay visas are more readily granted than long-stay visas. Nationals from the Schengen zone also benefit from more favorable treatment, due to the fact that they are not required to enter the Schengen area. bilateral agreements with France.

International tourism figures for Wallis and Futuna

Wallis and Futuna is not a very popular tourist destination compared with other South Pacific islands. Nevertheless, it attracts a growing number of visitors every year. Here are a few statistics:

• About 1,500 international tourists visit Wallis and Futuna every year.
• The majority of these visitors come from metropolitan France, New Caledonia, French Polynesia and Australia.
• Major tourist attractions include the paradisiacal beaches, cultural richness and historical sites.
• The tourism sector contributes around 2 % of GDP of Wallis and Futuna.

Tourism on the rise

Although the number of international tourists is still relatively low, there has been an increase in the number of visitors. upward trend in recent years. This development is due in particular to the promotion of the region to travelers in search of authenticity and a change of scenery, as well as to the diversification of the local tourism offering.