How to get around Tahiti: Transport and tips
Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia, is a dream destination for many travelers. But how do you get around Tahiti once you’ve arrived? In this article, we are going to give you all the tips so that you can get around Tahiti easily.
The means of transport available in Tahiti
1. Flights
Most travelers arrive in Tahiti by plane. There are direct flights from many cities including Los Angeles, Paris, Auckland and Sydney. The main air carriers that serve Tahiti are the national airlines Air Tahiti Nui and Air France.
2. Car rental
If you want to explore Tahiti at your own pace, the best solution is to rent a car. There are several car rental agencies in Tahiti, including Avis, Budget and Europcar. Prices vary depending on the car and the rental period.
3. Taxis
If you don’t want to rent a car, taxis are a good option for getting around Tahiti. Taxis are readily available in tourist areas and hotels. But remember, taxis in Tahiti can be expensive.
4. Buses
Buses in French Polynesia are not as developed as in other countries. However, there are buses in Tahiti that connect the main towns, but they can be infrequent and unreliable, especially outside of rush hour.
5. 4×4 rental
If you plan to visit remote places or off-the-beaten-track tourist sites, you can rent a 4×4. Most car rental companies offer 4×4 rentals, but it can be expensive.
Tips for getting around Tahiti
1. Prepare your itinerary in advance
Tahiti is a fairly large island with plenty to see and do. It is important to plan your itinerary in advance to maximize your time and expense. You must know the places you want to visit to organize your day and choose the most suitable mode of transport.
2. Avoid peak hours
Rush hours in Tahiti are very frequent, so it is advisable to avoid them as much as possible. Traffic jams in Tahiti can be very stressful and can ruin your travel experience.
3. Use carpooling
If you want to save money and meet locals, use carpooling. There are carpooling apps like BlaBlaCar that operate in Tahiti.
4. Negotiate prices
Whether you are negotiating a taxi or a rental 4×4 to explore the mountains, it is always possible to negotiate prices in Tahiti. Do not forget that the Polynesians are very welcoming and do not hesitate to discuss to find an agreement.
Islands to visit in Tahiti
1. Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a paradise island located near Tahiti. It is famous for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and diving activities. You can get there by plane from Tahiti or by ferry from Moorea.
2.Moorea
Moorea is another island close to Tahiti, famous for its mountains and bays. It is easily accessible by ferry from Tahiti.
3. Huahine
Less known than Bora Bora or Moorea, the island of Huahine is a jewel of French Polynesia. It is rich in culture and history and offers white sand beaches and magnificent diving sites.
The best car rental brands in Tahiti
1. Notice
Avis is a global car rental company well known for its exceptional customer service. With locations all over the island, you can be sure you’ll find a car quickly.
2. Budget
Budget is another well-known car rental company that operates in Tahiti. Car rental prices are affordable, making it a popular option for travelers.
3. Europcar
Europcar is a well-known car rental company around the world. It also operates in Tahiti, offering clean and reliable cars at reasonable prices.
FAQs
Q. How do I get from Tahiti to Bora Bora?
There are direct flights from Tahiti to Bora Bora via Air Tahiti. You can also take a ferry from Moorea or Huahine.
Q. Are buses frequent in Tahiti?
No, buses are not very frequent in Tahiti. It is advisable to plan your route and find an alternative such as car rental or taxis.
Q. When is the best time to visit Tahiti?
The best time to visit Tahiti is between April and October, when the weather is dry and cool and the temperatures are warm but not too sultry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting around Tahiti can be a bit difficult due to the relative scarcity of public transport and the high cost of taxis. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can visit all the wonders of the island for a reasonable price. Consider renting a car to explore Tahiti at your own pace, or use carpooling to save money. Finally, do not forget to explore the many tourist sites of the surrounding islands.