Can Americans drive in Tahiti?

You likely won't need an international driver's permit in Tahiti. If your driver's license is either in English or in French, you won't need an international driver's permit to rent a car in Tahiti. If your driver's license is in another language, it may require one.



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Avis, Europcar and Hertz all operate car rental offices in Tahiti. Driving around the entire island of Moorea is also popular. Car rentals are available at the ferry pier on Moorea. An international driver's license is not needed for Tahiti.

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It depends on what type of beaches you're looking for. If you're expecting perfectly white sand, calm waves and bright aquamarine-colored water, Bora Bora has better beaches (bottom left photo). If you enjoy public beaches, surfing, whale watching and dolphin sightings, Tahiti has better beaches (bottom right photo).

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Mobile Phone
French Polynesia uses the Global System for Mobiles (GSM) technology. Check with your wireless company before traveling to see if you have a GSM phone. If so, you may be able to use it in the islands if your home provider has an international roaming agreement with the mobile network Vinia (www.vini.pf).

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Keep in mind that Tahiti drives on the right side of the road — easy for Americans and continental Europeans, but harder for Brits, Aussies, and Kiwis to adjust to! What is this? Also, for Americans, note that there are a decent amount of roundabouts in Tahiti, especially around Papeete.

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Getting Around Tahiti
To get around Papeete and the surrounding towns, the public transit system offers large white RTC motor coaches. Taxi service is also available from your hotel and is best arranged by your hotel concierge.

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Strictly prohibited imports include live animals, all plant material, flowers, fruits, and cultured pearls of non-French Polynesian origin. Naturally, any weapons, ammunition, and narcotics are prohibited outright.

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Drinking water:
You can drink tap water in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora and in all the international resorts. It is usually fine in family hotels and in the other islands but we recommend that you ask your hosts for confirmation.

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U.S. citizens do not need a visa if entering on a regular tourist passport and staying no more than 90 days out of every six months. If the purpose of the trip is not tourism (work, scientific research, etc.), then you may be required to obtain a visa before arrival in French Polynesia.

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U.S. citizens do not need a visa if entering on a regular tourist passport and staying no more than 90 days out of every six months. If the purpose of the trip is not tourism (work, scientific research, etc.), then you may be required to obtain a visa before arrival in French Polynesia.

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The best way to get around Tahiti is by taxi or rental car. If you're planning on doing a lot of traveling throughout the island, a rental car is a good option. A bike is an option, too. For journeys to other French Polynesian islands, you'll have to book passage on a boat or airplane.

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Tahitians are considered to be some of the most genuinely friendly and kind people of the world. But, Tahitians are also known for being a little shy as well.

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It's best to exchange money or use your credit card in Tahiti. If you can't buy some before your trip, the next best options are Australian Dollars (AUD), US Dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR).

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The best time to visit Tahiti is from May to October.
Tahiti is located in the southern hemisphere but close to the equator. As a result, Tahiti only experiences two seasons, Summer from November to April and winter from May to October. The temperature doesn't fluctuate much throughout the year.

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When talking about costs, it always depends on where you stay and eat and the kind of activities you do. However, in general Hawaii is cheaper than Tahiti. Hawaii has a wider range of accommodations and eateries, with many budget homestays and street food vendors.

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The months between May and October constitute Tahiti's dry season. Average temperatures range from the lower 70s to the mid-80s, giving travelers ideal beach weather. Plus, the humidity is at its lowest.

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