- Tokelau has no airport; the only way in is a roughly fortnightly boat from Apia, Samoa
- Visitors need a permit arranged in advance through the Tokelau office in Apia
- Around 1,500 people live on three atolls: Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo
- Very few tourists ever make it, so plan for a simple, community-based stay
- Airports
- No airport; the nearest is Faleolo International, Apia, Samoa (APW), then roughly 24-30 hours by boat
- Flight time
- about 30h from London to Samoa, plus the boat journey
- Best time to go
- May-October
- Currency
- New Zealand dollar (NZD)
Tokelau is one of the most remote places on Earth: three low coral atolls in the South Pacific, roughly 500 km north of Samoa, with a combined land area of around 10 square kilometres and no point more than a few metres above sea level. It is a territory of New Zealand, and its people, around 1,500 of them, live largely by fishing, coconut and community, with decisions made by village councils of elders.
There is no airport, no hotel in the usual sense and no tourist industry, and a visit is less a holiday than an expedition. In 2012 Tokelau became one of the first places in the world to generate almost all its electricity from solar power. It is 13 hours ahead of the UK in winter (12 in British Summer Time) and uses the New Zealand dollar. Tokelauan and English are spoken. For the wider picture, see our Oceania guide, our Samoa guide for the gateway and our New Zealand guide.
Things to do
- Village life: join in community activities, church services, fishing trips and evening gatherings.
- The lagoons: swimming, snorkelling and canoeing in calm, clear water inside the reefs.
- Atafu: the smallest and northernmost atoll, with a single compact village.
- Nukunonu: the largest atoll, known for its lagoon and fine weaving.
- Fakaofo: its main village sits on a tiny, densely built islet.
- Traditional crafts and dance: weaving, fatele dancing and singing, often shared with visitors at celebrations.
- Simply switching off: no traffic, very limited internet and a slow rhythm set by the boat schedule.
Where to stay
- Village guesthouses: a small number of family-run guesthouses on each atoll, arranged through the Tokelau office or your contacts.
- Homestays: staying with a local family is often the most realistic option and the best way to understand atoll life.
Getting there
From the UK, fly to Apia in Samoa via Auckland, Fiji or Australia. From Apia, a government-run passenger ship sails to Tokelau roughly every two weeks, taking around 24-30 hours to reach the first atoll; the timetable changes with weather and demand. Visitors need a permit, arranged in advance through the Tokelau Apia Liaison Office, and should book passage at the same time. Because the boat schedule sets the length of your stay, expect to spend at least one to two weeks. Landing is by small boat across the reef.
Good to know
- Community rules: each atoll is run by its council of elders (taupulega); visitors are expected to follow local rules and attend to invitations.
- Religion: churches are central to life, and Sundays are for worship and rest.
- Dress: dress modestly in villages, covering shoulders and knees, and swim in shorts and T-shirts rather than skimpy swimwear.
- Alcohol: rules vary by atoll and alcohol may be restricted; ask before bringing any.
- Health: each atoll has a small hospital, but evacuation is extremely difficult, so take comprehensive insurance.
Best time to visit
May to October is generally drier and calmer, making the sea crossing more comfortable. November to April brings more rain and a risk of tropical cyclones. Whenever you go, allow for delays and pack seasickness remedies.
Bring cash in New Zealand dollars, any medicines you need and small gifts for your hosts; there are no ATMs and only basic shops.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists visit Tokelau?
Yes, but only with a permit arranged in advance and a place on the boat from Samoa. Very few people visit each year.
Is there an airport in Tokelau?
No. The only regular way to reach Tokelau is by sea from Apia, Samoa.
Do I need a visa for Tokelau?
Visitors need an entry permit from the Tokelau authorities. You will also need to meet Samoa's entry rules for the journey out.
How long should I stay in Tokelau?
Your stay is set by the boat schedule, so plan for one to two weeks or more.
Written by
Emma City breaks & deals editor
Emma plans city breaks the way other people plan the weekly shop: on a budget, with a spreadsheet and a backup plan. She covers city guides and deal-hunting.
More from EmmaWe research every guide carefully, but prices, opening times and timetables change. Check them shortly before you travel. Links to our booking partners are affiliate links.
