How to get to Makemo

When planning a journey to Makemo, you are setting off to one of the picturesque atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago in French Polynesia. This place is not a bustling metropolis, but a secluded tropical paradise, ideal for diving and the quiet contemplation of nature.

Reaching this remote corner is possible primarily by air via the region's main hubs. Due to its island location, standard ground transport such as trains or intercity buses is not applicable here, giving way to aircraft and sea vessels.

The main way to get to Makemo is to use the services of local airlines. Since there are no direct international flights to the atoll, travellers usually first arrive at the main airport of French Polynesia in Tahiti, and then transfer to a domestic flight.

Air connections between the islands of the Tuamotu Archipelago allow you to reach your destination quite comfortably, enjoying views of the ocean from above. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, as planes may not fly to small atolls daily, and schedules depend on weather conditions.

Railway connections to Makemo are completely absent due to the geographical features of the area. Laying rail tracks on coral atolls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is impossible and impractical.

Enthusiasts of rail travel will have to swap the familiar carriage for the board of a plane or the deck of a boat. It is these modes of transport that connect the scattered islands of French Polynesia into a single network.

It is impossible to get to Makemo by bus, as the atoll is separated from other landmasses by thousands of kilometres of ocean. Bus routes connecting this island to the rest of the world do not exist.

Public transport in the usual sense is absent even within the settlement itself due to its small size. The main logistics in the region rely on the use of domestic aviation and water transport.

You cannot drive to Makemo by private car or taxi from the mainland or other islands — there are no overland roads to the atoll. This destination is accessible exclusively to those arriving by air or sea.

On the island itself, car traffic is minimal, and the road network is limited to one or two streets. For moving around on land, it is much more convenient and popular to use bicycles or simply walk, enjoying the silence and nature.

A trip to a remote atoll requires special preparation, as the infrastructure here differs from familiar resorts. To ensure your holiday in Makemo is comfortable, please use the following recommendations:

1. Clothing and footwear. Bring light clothing made of natural fabrics, swimwear, and definitely special footwear for swimming (coral shoes) to avoid injuring your feet on the reefs.
2. Transport on the island. The atoll is small, so the best way to get around is by walking or renting a bicycle.
3. Finances. The official currency is the CFP Franc (XPF). Be sure to carry a sufficient supply of cash, as ATMs may be missing or out of service, and cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Health and sun. The sun here is very active: use high SPF cream and wear a head covering. Also, pack a first aid kit with essential medicines, as the selection at the local medical centre may be limited.
5. Connectivity and Internet. Mobile coverage and the internet may work intermittently or be slow. Treat this as an opportunity for a digital detox.
6. Water and food. Drink only bottled water. Remember that shops may have a limited assortment and specific opening hours (siesta).
7. Respect for nature. Do not break corals and do not touch marine life — this is dangerous for you and harmful to the ecosystem.
8. Planning. Keep in mind that life on the atoll flows at a relaxed pace ("fiu"), so service may be leisurely — just relax and enjoy the experience.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Polynesian hospitality.