Flights to Papeete

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Papeete Guide

What should I know before visiting Papeete, Tahiti?

Travel to Tahiti between July and October to see whales

Every year, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Tahiti and spend a few months moving around the islands. Plan return flights to Papeete between July and October and book a whale-watching tour once you know your holiday dates to increase your chance of spotting these creatures in the wild!

Tahiti is teeming with adventure activities

There is more to do in Tahiti than lounging on the beach with a tropical drink. While beaches are a big part of Tahiti’s appeal, there are so many other activities to enjoy when you book airfares to Papeete. Across Tahiti and the surrounding islands, travellers who have booked cheap flights to Tahiti from New Zealand can snorkel with sharks, hike through rainforests, and go zip-lining in the mountains.

Consider purchasing a SIM card

Tahitian WiFi is infamous for being slow, even in high-end hotels. To get around this, purchase a local SIM card after arriving into Faa’a International Airport (PPT). The Vini mobile network offers a travel SIM card that can be purchased from Vini shops or on the plane if your flights to Papeete are with Air Tahiti Nui.

What are the best things to do in Papeete, Tahiti?

Fautaua Waterfall

This landmark is one of the many iconic waterfalls to experience when you book return flights to Tahiti. Fautaua Waterfall is about 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) southeast of Papeete and can be reached by trekking through the jungle. After a fairly challenging 6-kilometre (3.7 mile) hike through jungle and mountains, you’ll reach the waterfall. Fautaua Waterfall is an impressive 300 metres (980 feet) tall, making it the world’s 28th highest waterfall. The waterfall is beautiful, as is the jungle that you trek through to reach it. Hiking to Fautaua Waterfall is a great way to spend a day.

Papenoo Beach

Spending time exploring the beaches of Tahiti is a must-do when you book plane tickets to Papeete. Papenoo is a breathtaking beach about 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) east of Papeete, and with its stretch of white sand and swaying palm trees it is the ultimate picture of paradise. Once you’ve arrived on your cheap Tahiti flights, you could visit Papenoo Beach for some of Tahiti’s best surfing. Papenoo Beach is easily accessible from Papeete, but its relatively unknown to tourists. 

Museum of Tahiti and the Islands

Known locally as Musée de Tahiti et des Îles, this museum showcases the fascinating history and culture of French Polynesia. The museum is divided into four sections that teach visitors about geography, pre-European culture, colonisation, and natural wonders of Tahiti and the surrounding islands. When you book return flights to Tahiti from New Zealand, this museum is a great way to learn more about the place you’re visiting. It’s located just south of Papeete in the neighbouring town of Puna’auia, and tickets to visit cost 600 Polynesian francs (about $8.70 NZD).

Take a day trip to Moorea

When you book airfares to Papeete, there are several other islands you can visit within reach of Tahiti. Moorea is a popular place to go as it’s only 30 minutes from Papeete by ferry. Overall, Moorea is much less visited than Tahiti, giving it a remote feel. All over the island, you’ll encounter striking landscapes, from mountains to tropical jungle and a large lagoon. Some places to visit during your time in Moorea are the Belvedere Lookout, Tiki Village and Magical Mountain. Spending a day on Moorea is the perfect way to experience a different side to French Polynesia after your cheap flights to Tahiti from New Zealand.

When is the best time to visit Papeete, Tahiti?

Tahiti experiences two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The wet season lasts from November to April and is distinctive for its heat, humidity, and rain. During the day, temperatures average about 31°C. If you plan cheap flights to Papeete during this time, expect to experience some rainy days. However, this is the best time to book tickets to Tahiti if you’re looking for a bargain. While the wet season is still a popular time to travel, it receives less visitors than the dry season. This leads to lower prices on accommodation across the island.

In order to experience ideal weather after your cheap Tahiti flights, plan your holiday during the dry season between May and October. During this time, humidity levels are low, and daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 28°C. However, since this is the high season in Tahiti, accommodation tends to book up quickly. If you arrange airfares to Tahiti in the dry season, book your hotel well in advance for the best price.

FAQs

How long is the flight from NZ to Tahiti?

From Auckland, flights to Tahiti are less than 5 hours in duration. From other cities in New Zealand, the flight time is typically more than 7 hours 30 minutes.

Which airlines fly to Tahiti?

Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui, Aircalin, LATAM Airlines and Qantas all fly direct from New Zealand to Tahiti.

What is the best time to go to Tahiti?

The best time to go to Tahiti is between May and October as the weather conditions are at their most pleasant. This time of the year coincides with the dry season. If you are seeking cheaper airfares to Tahiti, however, the wet season, from November to April, may be a better option for you.