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Tuvalu


Please note that if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office have advised against all (or all but essential travel) to your destination, we cannot provide cover.
Click here to visit the FCDO's Foreign Travel Advice webpage.


  1. Intro
  2. Geography
  3. Travel
  4. Embassies & Visas
  5. Currency
  6. Health

Quick Facts

Official name: Tuvalu
Capital city: Funafuti
Languages spoken: Tuvaluan, English
Population: Around 11,000
Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
Time zone: GMT+12
Driving side: Left
Climate: Hot and humid year-round, with heavy rains from November to April and a risk of cyclones

Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest and least-visited countries, made up of low-lying coral atolls scattered across the South Pacific. Known for its laid-back way of life, colourful culture, and pristine waters, it’s a destination for travellers seeking remote island charm far from the usual tourist trail.

Tuvalu sits midway between Hawaii and Australia, made up of nine small islands with narrow strips of land, lagoons, and reef systems. The islands are only a few metres above sea level, and climate change poses a serious threat to their future. The largest atoll, Funafuti, is home to most of the population.

Funafuti International Airport (FUN) is the only airport, with flights mainly to Fiji. Travel between islands is by small boat or ship, though services are irregular. Attractions include the Funafuti Conservation Area, traditional dancing, and simply enjoying the slow island lifestyle. Tuvalu is not a mainstream tourist spot, so facilities are very basic.

UK nationals can visit Tuvalu without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, with possible extensions available locally. Passports must be valid for at least six months on arrival. There is no British embassy in Tuvalu; consular services are handled by the British High Commission in Fiji.

Tuvalu uses the Australian dollar (AUD). There are no ATMs and credit cards are not accepted, so visitors must bring enough cash to cover their stay. Basic goods can be expensive due to reliance on imports.

Healthcare facilities are extremely limited, with only a small hospital in Funafuti. Serious medical conditions will require evacuation to Fiji, so strong travel insurance with medical cover is essential. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue occasionally occur. Tap water is not reliably safe, so bottled or boiled water should be used. Extreme heat and humidity can also be challenging for visitors.