Three crater lakes on Wallis, historic and cultural sites on Futuna, and Alofitai Beach on Alofi reveal the different sides of Wallis and Futuna. To plan your trip, it helps to first decide what matters most to you: cultural heritage, landscapes or activities on the water. If you are looking for accommodation, you can also tailor your choices to your interests for the trip.
Culture and history on the islands
On Futuna, visitors can spend a day exploring the island’s many historic and cultural sites. One special place is Anakele: the burial site of King Fakavelikele is located there, and Anakele is considered the cradle of the present-day Tui’Agaifo dynasty. Its connection to the king and dynasty gives the site a specific historical significance, while the many other sites offer opportunities for a range of cultural discoveries.
Religious architecture is also part of the destination’s character. Wallis and Futuna has around a hundred places of worship, whose history and architecture are described as unusual. Examples include the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption on Wallis and the Basilica at Poï on Futuna. On Wallis, the Uvea Museum Association invites visitors to view a collection about the Second World War, the US Army and their impact on the island and its inhabitants. Religious buildings, dynastic memory and the history of the war thus offer different ways to engage with the culture.
Crater lakes and coastal scenery
Those interested in the landscape will find three crater lakes on Wallis: Lake Lanutavake, Lake Lano and Lake Lalolalo. Their names offer a specific starting point for getting to know the island beyond its lagoon activities. On Alofi, an island in the Futuna archipelago, lies Alofitai Beach, with fine, powder-white sand. Sprawling Tilo trees provide shade there. Nearby attractions also include the island’s first freshwater well and the Sacred Heart chapel. The beach, its tree-lined setting and these two named places offer different points of interest for a visit to the area.
Lagoon, islets and hands-on activities
At Aka'aka Market, visitors can learn to make traditional handicrafts alongside artisans from Wallis and Futuna. The Women’s Territorial Council of Wallis and Futuna also offers a range of creative workshops. If you would like to take part, confirm the current schedule locally.
The Nukuteatea Association offers another way to spend time on the lagoon: an outing in a traditional outrigger canoe. Participants can prepare a meal with locals in a traditional Umu oven, then explore the northern beaches and islets. Check whether the outing is currently available before your trip. The islets around Wallis offer activities including snorkelling in the lagoon, visits to the coral reef and overnight camping. Check local access rules before visiting. Vakala also operates a water taxi service, allowing visitors to explore Wallis’s beaches, lagoon and islets. Check the current schedule in advance.
A challenging hike on Futuna
The climb to Futuna’s highest peak requires hiking experience; the route is challenging and offers panoramic views over land and sea. This makes it quite different from an outing on the lagoon: the canoe trip focuses on preparing a meal together and then exploring, while the summit hike centres on the demanding ascent and the views over land and sea. When choosing activities, you can focus on what genuinely interests you—cultural sites, hands-on crafts, experiences on the water or a challenging hike.
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