All visitors require a permit from the Tokelau Administrator. Apply well in advance.

How do I get to Fakaofo?

Fly to Samoa, then take a boat from Apia to Tokelau. The journey takes 24-36 hours.

Is there accommodation on Fakaofo?

Yes, basic guesthouses and homestays are available. Book ahead.

Can I use credit cards?

No, cash (New Zealand dollars) is essential. There are no ATMs.

Tokelauan is the main language; some English is spoken in tourism contexts.

Light clothing, reef shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a first-aid kit.

Are there guided tours?

Guided tours are not formalized, but local hosts can show you around.

Fale old settlement

CityFakaofo, Tokelau

Fale old settlement is a CITY in Fakaofo, Tokelau.

Fale old settlement on Fakaofo atoll offers a rare glimpse into Tokelau's pre-colonial past. Wander among weathered stone foundations and coral pathways that once formed the heart of this tiny island community. The site is enveloped by swaying coconut palms and the gentle roar of the Pacific, creating a serene, timeless atmosphere. Visitors can explore the remnants of traditional meeting houses and ancient graves, while learning about the chiefly system that governed daily life. The surrounding lagoon sparkles with turquoise clarity, perfect for a refreshing dip after your historical tour. This is a place for contemplative travelers who appreciate raw, unspoiled heritage and the quiet beauty of remote Polynesia.

Best time to visit Fale old settlement

The best time is May to October during the dry season, when southeast trade winds bring cooler temperatures and less rain. This period offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the settlement and enjoying lagoon activities. Avoid November to April due to higher humidity, rain, and cyclone risk.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 26-32°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

End of dry season

Know before you go

Getting there

APW

Faleolo International Airport (Samoa)

International

480 km away

Getting around

"Fakaofo is small and walkable. The main mode of transport is by foot or bicycle. A few locals may offer rides in utility vehicles. Boats are used for inter-island travel within Tokelau. There are no rental cars or public buses. Plan to walk or arrange transport through your accommodation."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

2 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited to guesthouses; slow and intermittent

Local SIM

No local SIM available; use roaming or satellite

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime but environmental hazards.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime but environmental hazards.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Fakaofo is generally very safe with low crime. The main risks are environmental: strong ocean currents, sharp coral, and sun exposure. Always swim with a buddy and heed local advice on tides. The settlement is remote, so inform someone of your plans. Cyclone season runs November to April; monitor weather alerts. Valuables are best left in a secure place; petty theft is rare but possible."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are extremely limited on Fakaofo. The nearest hospital is in Apia, Samoa. Bring a comprehensive first-aid kit and any prescription medications. Tap water is not potable; drink only bottled or boiled water. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever are present, so use repellent and sleep under nets. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly – cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages. Always remove shoes before entering a home. Greet people with a smile and a gentle nod. Respect elders and avoid loud or confrontational behavior. Photography of people requires permission. Sunday is a day of rest and church; avoid noisy activities. Gift-giving is appreciated but not expected."

TokelauanEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a local meal at a guesthouse costs around $10-15

Hotels

$50-80 | basic guesthouse $50-80/night

Local transport

$0 | walking is free; boat transfers may cost $20-50

Cost notes

Prices in NZD. Limited options; bring cash.

Timezone

Pacific/Fakaofo
Local time 09:09

More facts

Population

120

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Abadii kuҳnai Fale, Alte Siedlung Fale, Ancien etablissement de Fale, Ancien établissement de Fale, Antigo assentamento de Fale, Antiguo asentamiento de Fale, Fakaofu Village, Fale, Fale ehski zhajgashuusu, Fale eski auyly, Fale eski yerlesimi, Fale eski yerleşimi, Fale iskə jasaulygy, Fale koehnə yasayis yeri, Fale köhnə yaşayış yeri, Fale old settlement, Fale qadimgi jamoasi, Magalada hore ee Fale, Makazi ya zamani ya Fale, Pemukiman lama Fale, Pemukiman lawas Fale, Permukiman lama Fale, Staroe poselenie Fale, Tsohon gidaje Fale, Yeroo durii jidhaala Fale, d falې pratې skwnt, falے prany abady, fare jiu ji luo, mstwtnt faly alqdymt, phale purani basati, phale purani basti, phale purano basati, shhrk qdymy falh, Абадии кӯҳнаи Фале, Старое поселение Фале, Фале eski ауылы, Фале искә ясаулыгы, Фале эски жайгашуусу, د فالې پراتې سکونت, شهرک قدیمی فاله, فالے پرانی آبادی, مستوطنة فالي القديمة, फाले पुरानी बस्ती, ফালে পুরানো বসতি, ਫਾਲੇ ਪੁਰਾਣੀ ਬਸਤੀ, ፋle diro menoriya, ፋሌ ድሮ መኖሪያ, ファレ旧集落

Capital CityMajor HubHistoricBeachCulturalRemote