Things to do in Wallis and Futuna

Experience the soaring Polynesian harmonies of the cathedral choir during a vibrant Catholic service in the capital's landmark church.

Descend to the shore of this perfectly circular crater lake surrounded by sheer jungle walls, one of Wallis's most dramatic natural wonders.

Explore healthy hard and soft coral formations teeming with reef fish and turtles just a short boat ride from Mata-Utu.

Sit cross-legged with local men and share the mildly narcotic kava drink from a communal bowl during an authentic evening custom.

Walk among the massive basalt stone walls and ceremonial platforms of a 15th-century stronghold, a testament to Wallis's Tongan past.

Climb the highest peak on Futuna for sweeping views of the island's rugged spine and the deep blue Pacific.

Visit the hilltop sanctuary where the patron saint of Oceania was martyred in 1841, a deeply revered pilgrimage site.

Swim through crystal-clear shallows alive with giant clams and colourful fish, a quiet island sanctuary off Wallis.

Hike to this hidden crater lake enveloped by lush vegetation, a peaceful freshwater refuge perfect for quiet contemplation.

Sample pork, taro and breadfruit slow-cooked in an underground earth oven, the ultimate Wallisian communal meal.

View the modest yet symbolic residence of the King of Uvea, a modern building that stands beside the cathedral as the centre of political life.

Set foot on a virtually untouched island to trek through primeval rainforest and sense the isolation of a lost world.

Examine ancient royal foundations and raised tombs in a seldom-visited Futuna village, revealing early Polynesian settlement.

A short, steep hike to the highest point on the main island rewards you with a 360-degree view over crater lakes and the lagoon.

Watch energetic stick dances accompanied by rhythmic log-drums and chants, a living expression of Wallisian warrior heritage.

Admire this charming island church built from local timber with intricate carved altar and vivid biblical paintings.

Paddle a sea kayak over shimmering shallow water to a tiny palm-covered sand cay perfect for a castaway picnic.

Select fresh papayas, guavas and pomelos from the open-air stalls while mingling with cheerful vendors in the island's main commerce hub.

Step inside this colourful Futuna church to see elaborate wood carvings that blend Christian and Polynesian motifs.

Drift across vibrant coral walls where the lagoon meets the open ocean, a magnet for pelagic fish and eagle rays.

Explore a natural volcanic tunnel formed by ancient lava flows, a cool, dark underworld hidden beneath the forest.

Between July and October, spot breaching whales and their calves from a boat on their annual migration through these warm Pacific waters.

Watch women beat soaked mulberry bark into fine decorated cloth using traditional tools, a centuries-old handicraft still practised daily.

Hike along the dramatic eastern coastline past blowholes, hidden coves and panoramic lookouts over the vast empty ocean.

Admire the open-sided oval huts with thatched roofs, the authentic domestic architecture of Futuna built from local materials.