France has in Polynesian Oceania, more than 20 000 km from Paris, a small jewel of exceptional natural beauty called Wallis and Futuna.

This archipelago of the South Pacific consists of three volcanic islands, the largest Wallis (or Uvéa in Polynesian) and, a little over 200 km further south, the Futuna and Alofi, separated from each other by 2 km of waterways. These territories were discovered by Dutch and British navigators during the 17th and 18th centuries. Under French protectorate from the end of the 19th, the country will become in 1961 an overseas territory then in 2003 a collectivity. Ancient volcano having collapsed on itself, the island of Wallis with an area of about 80 km², is surrounded by an imposing coral reef which protects it from the assaults of the sea. Between the two lies one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. The latter is only open in one place, which makes the island difficult to access by boat. Its main town is Mata-Utu. The other two islands differ from the first, smaller and born of a more recent volcanism, the relief is generally higher and they are not surrounded by coral reefs. Very little known to tourism, the archipelago offers itself to adventurers in search of an exclusive and very preserved nature. Here the landscapes are marked by their diversity: hikers will be able to explore the paths of the vast forests up to the extraordinary crater lakes (the most famous, that of Lalolalo), they will also be able to criss-cross the roads around the island by visiting the small fishing villages or the mysterious archaeological sites of the Tonga period or go on small islands by boat to bathe in the lagoon and practice diving. Indeed, the island of Wallis is not too recommended for swimming and idleness because only two main sandy beaches exist today. The most impressive landscapes are those located on the island of Futuna. However, it is quite complicated to get there both by plane and by boat. Wallis and Futuna also has a totally exotic fauna and flora, fruits and vegetables unknown on the continent, flowers in multiple colors. In the clear waters of the Pacific you have the opportunity to encounter an immense variety of fish, dolphins, turtles or rays. The islands are also home to rare bird species found only in Oceania. To accommodate you during your stay in Wallis and Futuna you will not have a great choice, it is very rare to find rooms with the inhabitants and there are only a handful of hotels and pensions. Here, no holiday clubs or prestigious hotels, the offer is generally simple and acceptable comfort. Similarly, for an escapade in the island of Wallis, it will be difficult to find a vehicle. To rent a car, you will have to go to one of the small garages because the international agencies are not present there. The inhabitants are generally discreet and do not try too much to make contact with tourists. They will however know how to advise you with a real enthusiasm on the beauties to visit on the three islands. Finally, it is important to note that the climate here is equatorial with two main seasons in succession. The hot and humid season extends from October to April (30°C on average), during which cyclones are possible. From March onwards, the season dries up and the weather becomes much sunnier and more pleasant. It is therefore advisable to leave between April and the end of September. Wallis and Futuna therefore remains a small protected paradise to visit quickly before it is stormed for its so magical places.

Art and culture in Wallis And Futuna
We are used to seeing it in movies and in pictures in tourist magazines, flower necklaces are a reality in the Pacific, and therefore also in Wallis and Futuna. Traditionally made for traditional religious occasions and ceremonies. Music and dance are also deeply rooted in the traditional culture of the archipelago, it is possible to see many shows in places and tourist establishments. You can bring some handicrafts in memory of your trip to Wallis and Futuna: fabrics (called tapas), wooden sculptures, paintings and colorful drawings.

What to visit in Wallis And Futuna
Wallis : A cruise on the Lagoon by pirogue, going to the cliffs of Lano, the Fort of Teesi, a snorkeling trip, the bay of Utuleve, the seabed, Talietumu, the cathedral of Mata Utu / the church of the Sacred Heart, the lake Lalolalo, the carmel of Wallis. Futuna and Alofi: The beautiful beaches of Alofi, the church of Laeva, the coastal road, Sunave Cove, Mount Puke.