French Polynesia is a tropical paradise renowned for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and snorkelers. The region boasts over 100 islands, including the famous Bora Bora, Tahiti, and …
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Backpacking French Polynesia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in French Polynesia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit French Polynesia
French Polynesia, an archipelago in the South Pacific, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and crystal-clear waters. However, as a backpacker destination, it presents a mixed bag of pros and cons.Pros: The breathtaking scenery, including lush mountains and pristine beaches, offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The rich Polynesian culture provides a unique experience, with traditional music, dance, and cuisine to enjoy. Additionally, the friendly locals often welcome travelers with open arms.
Cons: On the downside, French Polynesia can be quite expensive, with high accommodation and food costs, making it challenging for budget travelers. Public transportation is limited, and many islands require costly inter-island flights or ferries. Also, the remote nature of these islands means that some areas may lack the infrastructure commonly found in more popular backpacking destinations.
In summary, while French Polynesia captivates with its natural beauty and cultural richness, its high costs and logistical challenges may deter some backpackers seeking a more budget-friendly adventure.
Why to go?Why backpacking in French Polynesia
Beach life
💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in French Polynesia
But French Polynesia offers more...[click to explore]
cities
hikes
beaches
unique sites
regions
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking French Polynesia
The best time to visit French Polynesia for backpacking is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. This period offers pleasant weather, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. Temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), providing comfortable conditions for hiking, snorkeling, and enjoying the stunning landscapes.Visiting during the shoulder months of April and November can also be beneficial, as you may encounter fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices while still enjoying decent weather. However, be mindful that the wet season, from November to April, brings higher humidity and increased rainfall, which can affect travel plans and outdoor adventures.
For budget-conscious backpackers, planning your trip during the shoulder months or the dry season can help you find better deals on flights and accommodations. Overall, aim for May to October for the best combination of weather and backpacking experiences in French Polynesia.
🦜 How to communicate?Language in French Polynesia
The main language in French Polynesia is French. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your French skills have become a bit rusty.Hello
Bonjour
Good morning
Bonjour
Good afternoon
Bon après-midi
Good evening
Bonsoir
Goodbye
Au revoir
How are you?
Comment ça va ?
I am fine
Je vais bien
Thank you
Merci
You are welcome!
Vous êtes le bienvenu !
Welcome!
Bienvenue !
Please
S'il vous plaît
What is your name?
Quel est votre nom ?
My name is …
Je m'appelle …
Could I have [one beer], please?
Pourrais-je avoir [une bière], s'il vous plaît ?
Do you have [water]?
Avez-vous [de l'eau] ?
How much is it?
Combien ça coûte ?
Where does the bus to … leave?
Où part le bus pour … ?
one
un
two
deux
three
trois
four
quatre
five
cinq
six
six
seven
sept
eight
huit
nine
neuf
ten
dix
hundred
cent
thousand
mille
In French Polynesia, English is commonly spoken, particularly in tourist areas such as Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea. Many hospitality workers, including those in hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, have a good command of English to cater to international visitors. However, outside these tourist hotspots, proficiency in English may vary significantly, with French and Tahitian being the primary languages.
While you can generally navigate with English in urban areas, knowing a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals. Overall, English is sufficiently spoken for travelers, but familiarity with the local languages can be beneficial and appreciated.
👛 A typical day in French PolynesiaAverage daily cost for backpacking in French Polynesia
Backpacking in French Polynesia can be a unique experience, but it’s essential to budget accordingly. On average, daily costs can range from $70 to $150 per person, depending on your choices.1. Accommodation: Dormitory beds in hostels typically cost between $25 to $50 per night. Budget guesthouses or pensions can range from $50 to $100.
2. Food: Eating at local markets or food trucks can keep your daily food expenses around $15 to $30. Dining at restaurants may increase costs to $30 to $60 per day.
3. Transportation: Public transport is limited, but local buses or hitchhiking can help save money. Expect to spend about $10 to $20 daily on transport, depending on your travel plans.
4. Activities: Many outdoor activities, like snorkeling or hiking, are free or low-cost, but guided tours can range from $50 to $150. Budget around $20 to $50 daily for activities.
Overall, a budget backpacker can manage with approximately $70 to $100 per day, while those seeking more comfort or activities may spend $100 to $150. Always account for additional costs like souvenirs or unexpected expenses.
Risk level: low (0%)Safety advice for French Polynesia
- The rate of serious crime is low. But petty crime, including theft, does occur. Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded places. Don't leave food or drink unattended.
- French Polynesia has natural disasters, including cyclones and tsunamis. Check with the High Commission of France in French Polynesia (French) for updates. They also run a phone hotline during major emergencies. Your tour operator or accommodation provider may also be able to provide timely advice.
- Strikes and industrial disputes can lead to unrest and disrupt essential services, including transport links. Protests can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings.
- In 2024, the Cyclone season in French Polynesia was between May and September due to a recent shift to El Niño conditions. However, tropical storms and cyclones are likely to occur at any time, particularly from November to April. Understand and follow French Polynesia's cyclone alert system.
- Tsunamis may occur and can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Know the warning signs and move immediately to high ground.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
French PolynesiaMy tips to get you on the way!
Does French Polynesia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for French Polynesia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. French Polynesia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for French Polynesia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. French Polynesia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute).
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute).
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”