Flower necklaces are a symbol of welcome: their glory may be fleeting but they are fragrantly scented and colourful (tiaré blossoms often form the basis). They are closely linked to Polynesian cultural traditions of welcome and hospitality. Seashell necklaces are typically Polynesian “farewell” symbols. They also bring you luck and you can take them home as souvenirs. Tiaré flowers are worn in different ways in Wallis and Futuna: as necklaces, symbols of welcome when offered as a gift, as flowery tiaras for all kinds of celebrations, and woven into the long tresses of island women. But most often, a single flower is worn as an ear decoration; Fafine (the Wallisian word for women) wear a flower in full blossom. The way your wear the tiaré blossom at your ear carries a message:

• worn at your left ear, on the same side as your heart, the flower means that you already have a romantic partner.
• worn at your right ear, the flower means that you are available (single).

In Futuna, it’s the opposite. So take care you don’t send the wrong message!

Sail away aboard a 10-metre long outrigger canoe for a unique experience of the lagoon’s magical underwater world. Land on an islet, take a refreshing dip in the azure waters and then help to prepare the iconic Umu oven. Lunch is served by or on the beach, depending on the tide, with delights including fish and seafood, salads and tropical fruit, not to mention a range of cool drinks (coconut water, fresh fruit juices, cocktails...). Then you’ll have plenty of time to relax in the sun, bathe in the lagoon or explore the islet, as you revel in the peace and serenity of your own little paradise!

Contact: Association Nukuteatea (Vaitupu Village - HIHIFO)

The traditional earthen oven or Umu is a steam-cooking technique also commonly used in Futuna and other Pacific Region countries. Prepared dishes (suckling pig, yams and taros, breadfruit, fish and shellfish...) are wrapped in banana leaves and then placed on a layer of hot volcanic stones laid at the base of an oven dug in the ground. The dishes are then covered with palm fronds, banana leaves and earth before being left to cook slowly for several hours.

Boasting a lagoon dotted with 16 tiny islets, Wallis is your dream destination for escaping city hustle and bustle. Each islet has its own special charm... The motu and their glorious beaches are waiting for you! This is where your dreams of picture-postcard settings all come true! The lagoon is utterly spectacular and the myriad hues of the pristine waters are pure enchantment. Getting to the islets couldn’t be easier - just hop aboard a taxi boat or rent a kayak at Vakala watersports centre.

Taking care of paradise! Before setting off for the day, check with the Tourist Office on protected areas and simple rules to follow.

Lake Lalolalo, in the southwest of Wallis, is at least 80 metres deep and measures 450 metres across. The lake lies in the crater of a former volcano and is unusual is forming an almost perfect circle. Endemic blind eels live in the sulfurous depths of this large freshwater lake ringed by unique virgin rainforest.

Ever dream of floating high over the landscape? Why not explore Wallis from above? A microlight flight will waft you skywards, hovering over breathtaking views of land and lagoon. Your pilot is on hand throughout the flight to provide expert information enhancing your adventure in the skies. Experience a feeling of total freedom, taste the thrill of flying and take back memories to treasure forever.

Kolonui Fort was built around an elevated sacred mound, known as Talietumu, by the Ha’avakatolo, one of Tonga’s great noble dynasties, sent to Uvea to accompany “Governor” Ga’asialiali. The fort was built around 1450 during the expansion of the Tu'i Tonga Empire. The ruined fort bears silent witness to the power and majesty of these conquerors of the South Seas. It forms part of a series of fortifications built in the southern half of the island, representing one of the Pacific Region’s most extensive walled complexes.

In Wallis and Futuna, masses are held in church to mark the start of a typical feast day celebration. The next highlight is the customary kava ceremony, generally followed by a katoaga, the presentation of offerings. The day ends with performances of traditional dances. Don’t miss the chance to share in a vibrantly colourful day of traditional celebrations!

You can’t beat the romance of a golden evening sky reflecting a host of shimmering colours. It’s a magical moment to savour to the full. In Wallis, locals and visitors come together to pay homage to the majesty of the setting sun, marking the end of each day with an ever-changing play of colour and light. It’s a special time of day, to be shared with family or friends, or simply enjoyed in quiet contemplation. There are a number of spots perfect for sunset viewing. The panoramic views of the island and ocean from Mt. Lulu chapel provide a breathtaking backdrop for the setting sun. Surrounded by peaceful yet vivid scenery, this old chapel holds a special place in the hearts of the Wallis islanders. The sublime beach of fine white sand at Vailala in the North and Lausikula beach in the South are also delightful spots to admire the sunset.