Travel Vaccines and Advice for French Polynesia
In French Polynesia travellers will see the many shades of blue of the ocean and experience cool waters. The mountain views will take your breath away with their moss green peaks. If you want to experience life at a slow pace and lay back and relax, French Polynesia is the place for you.
There are many activities to enjoy in French Polynesia. You can dive and snorkel in Rangiroa, watch the whales in Rurutu, and much more. There are also sites to experience art, music, and dance of French Polynesia.
French Polynesia offers travellers fresh ingredients like fish, taro, and fruits to experience. These ingredients are prepared in many ways. Cuisines include savory vanilla sauces, Chinese specialties and gratins.
There is so much to discover in French Polynesia whether it’s in the water or on land. If you’re interested in island life, then this is the perfect fit for you. French Polynesia awaits you.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for French Polynesia?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in French Polynesia
Do I Need a Visa for French Polynesia?
What Is the Climate Like in French Polynesia?
How Safe Is French Polynesia?
Moorea in French Polynesia
What Should I Take to French Polynesia?
Canadian Embassy in French Polynesia
Do I Need Vaccines for French Polynesia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for French Polynesia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for French Polynesia: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for French Polynesia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for French Polynesia |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, a bacterial infection, is primarily transmitted through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with infected people. Vaccination is a key preventive measure, recommended for travellers to endemic regions and those at risk due to occupation.
- Hepatitis A – Contagious hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Prevention involves vaccination and practicing good hygiene, particularly when travelling to high-risk areas.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travellers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention. The MMR vaccine, with its two-dose regimen, ensures strong immunity, reducing the risk of disease transmission and protecting both individuals and the broader population from these potentially severe illnesses.
Dengue is present in some parts of French Polynesia. This mosquito-borne disease can be deadly. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and netting.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in French Polynesia
Prevent Bug Bites in French Polynesia
Prevent bug bites by covering up and using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. If bitten, wash the bite, resist scratching, and soothe with hydrocortisone or antihistamines. Seek urgent care for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in French Polynesia
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Infections To Be Aware of in French Polynesia
- Dengue – Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. Symptoms can escalate from mild fever to life-threatening conditions. Preventing mosquito bites is key to avoidance, with recommendations including repellent and netting use.
- Zika – Zika, a mosquito-borne virus, spreads through mosquito bites, sexual contact, and from mother to child during pregnancy. Preventive measures include using repellent, practicing safe sex, and removing mosquito breeding sites.
Do I Need a Visa for French Polynesia?
A passport which is valid for 3 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A tourist visa is not required for stays up to 90 days. A business visa is required.
French Polynesia Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to French Polynesia? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of French Polynesia and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in French Polynesia?
This country has a mixture of tropical climates. French Polynesia’s higher regions have a subtropical climate because of the temperatures. A tropical savanna climate and unpredictable weather are what French Polynesia mainly experiences.
The western islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora have dry and wet seasons. From June until October travellers will see the least amount of precipitation. But, after these months pass the precipitation increases. The north, south, and east islands don’t see this increase in precipitation.
French Polynesia is located in a region with severe tropical weather. Hurricane season starts from the end of October until June.
How Safe Is French Polynesia?
French Polynesia is a beautiful travel destination, but it’s important to take some precautions to stay safe during your trip. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid deserted areas, especially at night.
- Try not to carry a lot of cash with you, use credit cards or travellers’ checks instead.
- Keep your belongings close to you at all times and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
- Be careful when swimming and follow the lifeguards’ advice.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot and humid weather.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to French Polynesia.
Moorea in French Polynesia
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Moorea is a beautiful island in French Polynesia that tourists love to visit because of its stunning natural scenery.
Visitors can enjoy different outdoor activities like swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, hiking and snorkeling. The island also offers cultural experiences like watching traditional dances, visiting ancient temples and tasting local foods.
Divers can explore the marine life of Moorea, which includes colorful fish, sharks and rays. During the months of August to October, tourists can also go dolphin and whale watching. One of the popular sites to see is the Tiki Reef, and the Shark Pit for diving.
Moorea is a perfect place to appreciate the beauty of nature, and there are different ways to enjoy it. The island is also rich in cultural history, and visitors can learn a lot about Polynesian traditions. Snorkeling and diving are exciting activities to do while on the island, and one can see amazing marine creatures.
The island is a great destination to explore, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What Should I Take to French Polynesia?
If you are travelling to French Polynesia, a warm and tropical place, you should bring clothes that are comfortable and easy to move around in. Things like cotton or linen shirts, shorts, skirts and dresses are ideal. Bring swimwear like bathing suits, rash guards, and cover-ups as you will spend a lot of time in the water.
Don’t forget sun protection, like sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, to protect your skin and eyes from the sun. Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other pests. Bring any necessary medications and a first aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring the islands and flip-flops or sandals for the beach. In case of sudden rain showers, bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. Bring a small backpack or tote bag to carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a camera.
Remember to pack light, as you’ll likely be moving between different islands and accommodations during your trip. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring a sense of adventure and an open mind to fully enjoy your time in French Polynesia!
Canadian Embassy in French Polynesia
Canada currently does not have a residential government office in French Polynesia. You can obtain consular services from the Consulate General of Australia in New Caledonia under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement.
Centre Tamanu Iti, 1er etage
Level 2, CCISM building, 41 rue du Docteur Cassiau,
Papeete, Tahiti,
98713, French Polynesia
Tel.: 689 40 57 69 00
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for French Polynesia
“The nurse was most friendly and helpful in outlining what vaccinations are recommended for my trip to French Polynesia. She was extremely thorough in explaining how I take the vaccinations, and followed up with an email with the same information. I highly recommend a trip before your trip!”
“The young lady nurse who helped us was very knowledgeable, intelligent and sympathetic to our needs. She answered all of our questions about French Polynesia and looked it up if she had any doubts. We did not feel rushed and she was very friendly and professional. The beautiful young lady made us feel very safe for our first trip to come and she made our day! Thanks for giving us a smile in our step :)”
“Booking an appointment was easy. The nurse was very helpful, knowledgeable and was very easy to deal with. Great experience overall would definitely repeat and recommend.”
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