French Polynesia flagTransportation & Infrastructure Guide

Public transit, airports, and getting around in French Polynesia

French Polynesia offers a unique island-based transportation network centered on air and maritime connectivity, with limited but developing road infrastructure. The territory's transportation landscape is characterized by inter-island ferries, regional airlines, and growing urban mobility solutions in Tahiti. Key strengths include strategic port facilities in Papeete and expanding international airport capacity, while challenges include geographic dispersion across 118 islands, limited road networks, and congestion in urban areas. Major infrastructure projects underway include the South Road initiative to address Tahiti congestion, plans for a second international airport in the Marquesas, and enhanced cruise terminal facilities to support tourism growth.
Public Transport
Below Average
Road Infrastructure
Moderate
Public Transport
4.2/10

Basic public transport system centered on Tahiti with RTC white buses and traditional 'le trucks' serving Papeete and surrounding areas. Limited weekend service and no rail network. Plans to acquire larger buses to address growing demand and congestion issues.

Road Infrastructure
5.1/10

Moderate road network with 2,590 km total roads (1,735 km paved, 855 km unpaved as of 1999). Chronic congestion on Tahiti's West Coast where the sole coastal road averages 17 km/h during peak times. South Road project underway to alleviate congestion between Pa'ea and Papeete.

Internet Speed
6.8/10

French Polynesia has one of the most advanced telecom infrastructures in the Pacific region with growing fiber optic deployment in urban areas. Connectivity varies between islands with better coverage in Tahiti and Society Islands.

Avg: 75+ Mbps • Expanding in Papeete and major urban centers, limited in outer islands

Airport Connectivity
7.6/10

Strong airport network with 54 total airports and 45 paved runways supporting domestic and international connectivity. Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport serves as primary hub with 40% increase in international flight capacity in recent years. Major carriers include Air France, Air Tahiti Nui, Delta, and United. Second international airport planned for Nuku Hiva in Marquesas Islands.

Hubs: Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport (PPT), Bora Bora Airport (BOB), Moorea Airport (MOZ)

Transportation Costs

Metro Pass
N/A (no metro system)
Bus Trip
Approximately €1.50-2.50 per ride (RTC bus system)
Taxi
N/A (specific rates not publicly detailed)
High-speed Train
N/A (no rail network)

Mobile Network

5G Coverage: Limited 5G deployment, primarily in Papeete urban areas with expansion planned
4G Coverage: Extensive 4G/LTE coverage in major islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora), limited in outer islands

French Polynesia maintains reliable mobile networks through major carriers with good 4G coverage in populated areas. 5G infrastructure is emerging in urban centers with gradual expansion expected through 2026.

Driving License

IDP required

International Driving Permit (IDP) required for foreign nationals. French Polynesia follows French driving regulations with right-hand traffic. Visitors may drive with valid foreign license and IDP for temporary stays. License conversion not required for short-term visitors.