- 10-11 h / - 11-12 h during our summer time

Papeete

French and Tahitian

• 110 / 220 volts
• A travel plug adapter for type A, B and E sockets is required
• It may be advisable to use a voltage converter.

Banks

7.45 am - 3.30 pm (Mon - Fri)
Some banks are also open on Saturdays from 7.45 am to 11.30 am.

Shops

8.00 am - 11.30 am and 1.30 pm - 5.30 pm (Mon - Fri)
8.00 am - 11.30 am (Sat)

• 1 January - New Year’s Day (Jour de l'An)
• 5 March  - Missionaries’ Day (Journée des Missionnaires)
• Good Friday (Vendredi Saint) - date varies, Friday before Easter Sunday
• Easter Sunday (Pâques) - date varies
• Easter Monday (Lundi de Pâques) - date varies
• 1 May - Labour Day (Fête du Travail)
• 8 May - Victory Day (Fête de la Victoire)
• Ascension Day (Ascension) - 40 days after Easter Sunday, date varies
• Whit Sunday (Pentecôte) - 50 days after Easter Sunday, date varies
• Whit Monday (Lundi de Pentecôte) - the day after Whit Sunday, date varies
• 29 June - Autonomy Day (Fête de l'Autonomie)
• 14 July - French National Day (Fête Nationale)
• 15 August - Assumption of Mary (Assomption de Marie)
• 1 November - All Saints’ Day (Toussaint)
• 11 November - Armistice Day (Armistice)
• 25 December - Christmas Day (Noël)

The following documents are required for entry into French Polynesia:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
• A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
• A return or onward flight ticket to another country.

• Minors: Minors travelling alone, with only one parent or with an accompanying person are required to have a travel authorisation.

As of: January 2025

French Polynesia has a tropical climate and remains warm throughout the year, with two main seasons. The rainy season runs from November to April, when temperatures are particularly high and tropical storms may occur. The dry season, from May to October, is slightly cooler and drier. Temperatures generally range between 21 °C and 31 °C, making the islands an attractive destination for sun-seekers.

The ideal time to travel to French Polynesia:

• Beach holidays: May to October - ideal conditions for beach activities, with low rainfall and pleasant temperatures.
• Exploring and nature: May to October - cooler and drier months, perfect for hiking and nature excursions.
• Best avoided: November to April, cyclone season with a higher risk of severe weather and more frequent rainfall.

• Using a mobile phone in French Polynesia may incur roaming charges. It is advisable to check your mobile provider’s roaming rates before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a suitable roaming package to reduce costs.
• In larger towns such as Papeete and on popular tourist islands such as Bora Bora and Moorea, numerous Wi-Fi hotspots are available, particularly in hotels and restaurants.
• We recommend purchasing a local SIM or eSIM for your stay in French Polynesia to ensure a reliable Internet connection. This is particularly useful on more remote islands, where Wi-Fi coverage may be more limited.

• Bora Bora: Known for its luxurious overwater bungalows and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkelling and diving.

• Moorea: Famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and wide, tranquil bays. Perfect for hiking and whale watching.

• Tahiti: The largest island offers the lively Papeete Market, waterfalls and black-sand beaches, as well as the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, which showcases Polynesian culture and history.

• Rangiroa: A vast atoll known for its fascinating marine life and as a top diving destination, particularly for encounters with sharks and manta rays.

• Huahine: A less-visited island known for its lush landscapes, archaeological sites and peaceful atmosphere.

• Fakarava: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its pristine coral reefs and diving among a wide variety of marine life.

• Maupiti: A smaller version of Bora Bora, offering unspoilt nature, ancient petroglyphs and excellent snorkelling opportunities in coral gardens.

• Marquesas Islands: This remote island group is famous for its rugged landscapes, rich Polynesian culture and for inspiring the artist Paul Gauguin.

• Tikehau: A stunning atoll with pink-sand beaches and abundant marine life, ideal for divers and travellers seeking peace and tranquillity.

• Taputapuatea Marae on Raiatea: An ancient and revered religious site offering insights into traditional Polynesian culture and religion.

Travel inspiration
Be inspired by our blog articles and discover the most fascinating regions of France:

Regions:

• The French coast: the top 10 destinations

• Côte d'Azur: the magic of southern France’s coast

• Discover Corsica: the top 10 highlights

• Champagne: a jewel in north-eastern France

• Burgundy: a journey through history, culture and cuisine

• France’s hidden gems: discovering places off the beaten track

• The French Pyrenees: the top 10 highlights

• Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: from lavender fields to vineyards

• Discover Normandy: the top 10 highlights

• France’s Atlantic coast: the wild cliffs of Brittany

• Discover Normandy: the top 10 highlights

Overseas territories:

• Discover Martinique: the top 10 highlights

• French Polynesia: a journey

• Saint Martin and Sint Maarten: two worlds on one island

• French Guiana: a journey

• Guadeloupe: the top 10 sights

• New Caledonia: an island paradise of nature, culture and adventure

• Réunion – tropical magic in the Indian Ocean

Cities:

• Bordeaux: 10 sights that will enchant you

• Nice: from the old town to hidden gems and unforgettable sights

Other:

• The French coast: the top 10 destinations

• Style and variety: skiing in France

• France’s hidden gems: discovering places off the beaten track

• France’s Atlantic coast: the wild cliffs of Brittany

• Northern France: the 10 most beautiful sights – culture, nature & cuisine

• Style and variety: skiing in France

French Polynesian cuisine is a fascinating blend of French culinary traditions and local tropical ingredients, renowned for their variety and freshness. Here are some highlights:

• Poisson Cru: The national dish, made from raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often combined with tomatoes, cucumber and carrots.
• Baguette: Despite the tropical setting, French baguettes are widely available and are often served with meals.
• Seafood: Fresh seafood is a cornerstone of the local cuisine, including lobster, prawns and a wide variety of fish.
• Breadfruit: A traditional staple prepared in many different ways, including boiled, baked and fried.
• Taro and cassava: These root vegetables are also important components of the local diet and are often served as side dishes.
• Banana and coconut: These fruits play an important role in both sweet and savoury dishes and are often used in desserts.
• Hinano beer: A popular local beer that pairs particularly well with spicy and aromatic dishes.

• Greetings: Traditional greetings often include a kiss on the cheek. It is common to greet people with light physical contact or a handshake.

• Saying please and thank you: Politeness is highly valued. The words “merci” (thank you) and “s’il vous plaît” (please) should be used regularly.
• Clothing: Smart clothing is expected in towns and on formal occasions. Casual clothing is common at beaches and resorts, but overly revealing outfits should be avoided, particularly in rural areas. Appropriate clothing should be worn when visiting religious sites.
• Dining etiquette: Meals are often social occasions. It is customary to take your time and enjoy both the food and the company. You should wait until the host invites you to begin or starts eating.
• Smoking: Smoking may be restricted in public areas. It is advisable to check signs or ask local people whether smoking is permitted.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in French Polynesia, as service is often already included in hotel and restaurant bills. However, a small tip may be appreciated for exceptional service.

• Tap water: In urban areas such as Papeete on Tahiti, as well as on Bora Bora and in parts of Moorea, tap water is generally safe to drink. On other islands, travellers should check before drinking tap water, as the quality may vary. If in doubt, bottled mineral water is the safer option.

• Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into French Polynesia. However, it is advisable to check that standard vaccinations are up to date in accordance with the Swiss vaccination schedule before travelling and to receive any necessary boosters. Additional vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox may be advisable depending on the itinerary and length of stay.
• Protect yourself against mosquito bites to reduce the risk of infection with dengue, chikungunya or the Zika virus.
• Leptospirosis occurs in the region. It is advisable to wear closed shoes and avoid contact with river water or mud. Food should also be stored in tightly sealed containers.
• Take care around stonefish in swimming areas. Their sting can cause serious health problems and requires immediate treatment.

• Medical care in French Polynesia is well developed in larger towns such as Papeete on Tahiti, while smaller islands offer more limited services. For specialist treatment, it may be necessary to travel to Tahiti. 
• It is strongly recommended to take out comprehensive international health insurance before travelling, including cover for emergency repatriation.
• Pharmacies are widely available on the main islands, but travellers are advised to bring sufficient quantities of any important medication.

• Check the latest situation in the media before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.
• The security situation in French Polynesia is generally good, and the region is considered safe for travellers.
• Crime levels are relatively low. However, travellers should remain alert to pickpocketing and petty theft in tourist areas. 

As of: January 2025

• A valid driving licence is recognised in French Polynesia. However, if it is not written in French or English, it is advisable to carry an international driving permit as well.
• The minimum age for renting a car is 21, depending on the rental company.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.05 ‰.

In French Polynesia, public transport offers a practical and scenic way to explore the islands. The main options available are:

• Buses: On Tahiti and some of the other larger islands, buses provide the main form of local public transport. They are an affordable way to get around, although they often do not operate to a fixed timetable.
• Boats and ferries: Ferries are the main form of transport between the islands, particularly between Tahiti and Moorea. For faster or more individual transfers, speedboats and private water taxis are also available and can reach more remote islands.
• Taxis: Taxis are available in urban centres and at airports. It is advisable to agree on the fare in advance to avoid surprises.
• Tickets: Tickets for buses and boats are best purchased directly from the driver or at official sales points. Cash is essential, as credit cards are not always accepted.

French Polynesia is well connected to the rest of the world through its airports. Here are some details about the main airports in the region:

• Tahiti Faa'a International Airport (PPT) – As the largest and main airport in French Polynesia, it serves as the principal hub for both international and domestic flights. 
• Bora Bora Airport (BOB) – This smaller airport is used mainly for domestic flights operated by Air Tahiti and is particularly popular with travellers wishing to experience Bora Bora’s idyllic overwater bungalows and spectacular natural beauty.

There are no direct flights from Switzerland to French Polynesia. The most common routes are via Paris, Los Angeles or San Francisco, with connecting flights operated by Air Tahiti Nui to complete the journey to this tropical paradise.

00 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Police: 17
• Ambulance: 15
• Fire service: 18

Rue des Poilus Tahitiens
98713 Papeete

Tel.: +689 40 420 030
Email: papeete@honrep.ch

• French Polynesia includes, among others, the islands of Tahiti, Bora Bora and the Marquesas.
• French Polynesia currently has no embassy or consulate in Switzerland.
• You will see many local people, both men and women, wearing flowers behind their ears. If the flower is worn behind the right ear, it means that the person is single. If it is worn behind the left ear, it means that they are in a relationship.
• Drug trafficking and distribution, including the sale of marijuana, cocaine and heroin, may be punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment and a fine of EUR 150'000.
• Only buy pearls with a certificate of authenticity and make sure you inform customs officials before leaving French Polynesia if you are carrying pearls.
• By law, you must always carry photo identification with you.