Alim Travels
Flights to Tokelau
Planning flights to Tokelau requires a different kind of journey—one that leads to one of the Pacific’s last untouched paradise. While there are no commercial flights to Tokelau itself, as this remote New Zealand territory has no airport , your adventure begins with flights to Samoa. From there, a multi-day voyage on a government supply boat connects you to the three stunning atolls of Fakaofo, Nukunonu, and Atafu . This exclusive journey rewards travelers with pristine lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and an authentic immersion into Polynesian culture that fewer than 150 tourists experience annually . Whether you’re seeking the best time to visit during the dry season from May to October or need guidance on travel permits and the MV Mataliki boat schedule, discovering how to get to Tokelau is the first step toward an unforgettable off-the-grid escape .
Major Airports & Gateways
Tokelau is one of the very few places in the world with no airport at all — there are no major city airports or airfields on any of its three atolls (Atafu, Nukunonu, and Fakaofo). Air travel directly into Tokelau simply doesn’t exist because the islands are too small and low‑lying to support a runway, and plans for an airport have been repeatedly studied but ultimately scrapped or remain unrealized as of 2026.
Primary access point:
Via boat from Samoa: The only practical way to reach Tokelau is by sea. Travelers fly into Faleolo International Airport (APW) in Apia, Samoa, and then take a government‑run ship (often the MV Tokelau) to Tokelau on a schedule that’s typically every two weeks, with the journey taking about 24–36 hours.
Best Time to Fly
The best time to fly to Tokelau is during the dry season, which runs roughly from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally warm, sunny, and less humid, with lower rainfall, making travel between the atolls easier and more comfortable. Sea conditions are also calmer, which is important because Tokelau has no international airport—access is usually by weekly or biweekly boat services from Samoa (Pago Pago or Apia), so smoother seas improve safety and reliability.
The wet season, from November to April, brings higher humidity, frequent rain showers, and the risk of tropical storms or cyclones, which can disrupt travel and make sea crossings more challenging. Planning your trip in the dry season maximizes chances for safe, pleasant travel and clear skies for exploring the remote atolls.
Recommended Add-Ons
Book a flight to Faleolo International Airport (APW) in Apia, Samoa, as Tokelau has no airports.
Reserve passage on the MV Tokelau or other government-operated ships well in advance, as sailings are infrequent (roughly every two weeks).
Arrange accommodation or local contacts in Tokelau beforehand, since options are extremely limited.
Pack sufficient supplies and essentials, as there are few shops or services on the islands.
Confirm weather conditions prior to travel, as rough seas can delay or cancel ship transport.
Ensure travel documents and visas for both Samoa and Tokelau are in order, even for short transits.
Consider travel insurance that covers maritime travel delays or cancellations.
Bring cash in small denominations; credit card usage is extremely limited.
Pack medications and personal necessities, as pharmacies are not available on the islands.
Check for local communication options, like satellite phone or internet access, as connectivity is sparse.