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About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 236 countries and territories, and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is an Equatorial Guinea Travel Guide from taste2travel.com
Date Visited: March 2024
Introduction
Nestled along the coastline of Central Africa, Equatorial Guinea awaits the adventurous traveller with its lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and captivating history.
Malabo National Park, a manicured garden in the capital city, features eight zones for visitors to discover.
Despite being one of Africa’s smallest countries, this hidden gem boasts an array of experiences waiting to be discovered.
While gaining a tourist visa was once difficult, a change in government policy, and the introduction of an eVisa process has made it easier than ever to visit this once isolated tropical jewel.
I fully explain the new eVisa process in the Visa Requirements section below.
Located on Bioko Island, Malabo is the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
This guide covers my stay in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
To travel outside the capital, visitors are required to apply for a Travel Authorisation which is issued by the Ministry of Tourism and takes 3-4 business days to process.
Local tour companies will arrange this permit for paying clients.
Finca Sampaka produces very fine chocolate, a short drive from downtown Malabo.
In a bid to diversify its economy away from declining oil revenues, Equatorial Guinea has now opened its doors to tourism.
Now is the opportune time to visit, before the hordes arrive!
Location
Malabo, Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea is situated on the west coast of Central Africa, bordered by Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the east and south.
Its unique location places it just north of the equator, giving the country its name.
A view of the port in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea.
The country consists of a mainland region known as Rio Muni, along with several small offshore islands.
The largest of these islands is Bioko, also known as Fernando Po, located about 40 kilometres (25 miles) off the coast of Cameroon. Bioko is home to the capital city, Malabo.
One unique geographical feature is that the Equator passes through the country, specifically through the island of Corisco, making Equatorial Guinea one of the few countries in the world to be bisected by this imaginary line.
Overall, Equatorial Guinea’s location provides it with a diverse range of ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to dense rainforests, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring varied landscapes and biodiversity.
People
Artwork at the Equatorial Guinea Cultural Centre in Malabo.
The population of this small but culturally rich nation is a mix of different ethnic groups, each contributing to the country’s unique identity.
The country is home to several ethnic groups, with the Fang being the largest. The Fang people primarily inhabit the mainland region of Rio Muni.
Other major ethnic groups include the Bubi on Bioko Island, the Ndowe, the Bujeba, and the Annobonese on the island of Annobón.
Each group has its own traditions, languages, and cultural practices, enriching the country’s cultural landscape.
The official languages of Equatorial Guinea are Spanish, French, and Portuguese due to its colonial history.
However, there are also several indigenous languages spoken across the country. Fang, Bubi, and Igbo are among the most widely spoken native languages.
A view of the interior of Saint Elizabeth’s Cathedral, the main cathedral in Malabo.
Religion in Equatorial Guinea reflects its historical influences.
The majority of the population identifies as Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the predominant denomination.
However, there are also followers of indigenous beliefs and Islam, particularly among some of the ethnic groups.
The Equatoguinean Cultural Centre in Malabo promotes local arts and culture.
Despite its small size, Equatorial Guinea’s population is a testament to the richness and diversity of African cultures.
The people, with their strong sense of identity and community, contribute to the country’s colorful mosaic of traditions and customs.
Worth checking out is the Equatoguinean Cultural Centre, which is housed in a beautiful, yellow, colonial building on the main street in Malabo.
The centre promotes local arts and culture and is always full of students who take advantage of the free WiFi, which is available in the central atrium.
Flag
The flag of Equatorial Guinea.
The flag of Equatorial Guinea was adopted on October 12, 1968, upon gaining independence from Spain.
It consists of three horizontal bands of green, white, and red, with a bluetriangle on the hoist side of the flag.
The green band symbolises the country’s natural resources, particularly its lush forests and vegetation. Green is also often associated with agriculture and the country’s hope for a prosperous future.
The white band represents peace and unity. It signifies the country’s aspirations for harmony among its diverse population and its commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Thered band symbolises the sacrifices made for independence and the bloodshed of the country’s martyrs. Red is a common color in many African flags, often representing the struggles for freedom.
The blue triangle on the hoist side of the flag represents the sea, as Equatorial Guinea is a coastal nation. Blue is also a color associated with the ocean and maritime activities.
A tiny, barely visible, Equatorial Guinea flag, flying upon the tallest flagpole in Malabo at Plaza of Equatorial Guinea.
In the centre of the flag is the national coat of arms of Equatorial Guinea.
The coat of arms features a silk cotton tree (Ceiba pentandra), which is a symbol of national prosperity.
Above the tree, there are six yellow six-pointed stars, representing the country’s mainland and five islands.
Below the tree, there is a banner bearing the national motto “Unidad, Paz, Justicia” (Unity, Peace, Justice).
Currency
The currency of Equatorial Guinea is the Central African CFA franc, which is the official currency of six central African nations.
The currency of Equatorial Guinea is the Central African CFA franc, which has the international currency code of XAF.
This currency is used by six countries in the Central African region, including Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic, Congo-Brazzaville, and Gabon.
The CFA franc is pegged to the Euro, with a fixed exchange rate, providing stability in international transactions.
Currently, €1 = 655.96 CFA francs.
This peg has meant that travel costs in all countries in the CFA zone are much higher than costs on the non-CFA countries.
Almost a full set of (uncirculated) CFA franc banknotes – with the 2,000 missing!
Within Equatorial Guinea, the currency is issued and regulated by the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), which is the central bank for the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).
The bank is headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with the headquarters building featured on the front of all banknotes.
The CFA franc is denoted by the symbol “FCFA” or “XAF” and is available in both coins and banknotes.
Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 francs, while banknotes are issued in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs.
Banking Services
The currency of Equatorial Guinea is the Central African CFA franc, abbreviated as XAF.
Credit Cards
Like almost all other African countries, cash is king in Equatorial Guinea with credit cards rarely accepted.
It is advisable to have some local currency on hand for all transactions, as well as U.S. dollars or Euros for larger purchases or in case of emergencies.
ATMs
ATMs are available in major cities like Malabo and Bata, where you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards.
Like many other African countries, Visa card is widely accepted in ATMs while Mastercard is accepted by just a few banks – such as Eco bank and Société Générale.
Costs
Menu prices, displayed at a café in the Malabo National Park.
Travel costs in Equatorial Guinea are typical of central African countries and of the CFA zone – i.e. higher than in other African countries.
This is not a budget-friendly destination for budget travellers.
The beer of choice in this former Spanish colony is San Miguel, which is brewed in Malaga, Spain.
Daytrip tour of Bioko Island with Rumbo Malabo: €285
WiFi
Despite being one of the wealthier countries in Africa, Equatorial Guinea has one of the slowest WiFi speeds in Africa.
The most frustrating thing you can do in Equatorial Guinea is to waste your time trying to use the incredibly slow internet.
WiFi speed test in Malabo which shows a typical download speed in Equatorial Guinea.
While the rest of the world measures WiFi speed in Mbps (megabits per second), in Equatorial Guinea, speed is still measured in kbps (kilobits per second).
Nowhere in the country did I experience anything faster than 512 kbps – i.e. the speed offered by an old-fashioned dial-up modem.
I performed internet speed tests in a number of locations, including at my hotel, and normally received download speeds of less than half a megabit per second (as indicated in the above screenshot).
An article on the Africa Report website states that downloading a 5GB movie took 734 minutes in the Republic of Congo, 788 minutes in Sao Tome, 850 minutes in Ethiopia, 965 minutes in Niger and 1,342 minutes in Equatorial Guinea.
There are various reasons for the slow internet speeds throughout Africa, including a lack of investment in infrastructure and also a desire by autocratic regimes (i.e. dictators) to hobble something which they consider to be a major threat to their hold on power.
Sightseeing
The Plaza of Equatorial Guinea is located on the Paseo Maritimo in Malabo.
Travel Authorisation
A special consideration for anyone wishing to venture beyond the capital of Malabo is the Travel Authorisation.
At police checkpoints around Bioko Island, you, or your tour company, will need to show this authorisation which is issued by the Department of Tourism and has a processing time of 3-4 days.
If you are travelling with a tour company, such as Rumbo Malabo, they can organise the authorisation in advance.
Malabo
The capital city of Equatorial Guinea, Malabo (pop: 297,000), is located on the northern coast of Bioko Island.
It’s a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern buildings.
While the government has built showpiece boulevards (especially connecting the new airport to downtown Malabo) which are lined with modern, glitzy office towers and ministry buildings, just behind this façade lies sprawling urban slums where many locals live in poverty.
St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral
St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the city of Malabo.
This beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral in Malabo is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a first stop on most sightseeing tours of the city.
Named after St. Elizabeth of Hungary, the cathedral is built in a neo-Gothic style that emphasises its façade, flanked by two 40-metre-high (130 ft) towers, and a nave with two aisles.
A view of the interior of St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral in Malabo.
Its construction began in 1897 with donations from parishioners, commercial companies and the Spanish government, for it was one of its colonies.
Designed by the architect, Luis Segarra Llairadó, the cathedral was inaugurated in 1916. The cathedral was seriously damaged by fire on January 16, 2020 while restoration work was underway. It has since been fully restored.
The copper doors at St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral in Malabo.
For those interesting in photographing the beautiful interior, the cathedral is normally closed during the day, but opens for mass which is conducted each day at 12 noon.
A view of the beautiful interior of St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral in Malabo.
This is the only time for photographing the interior and its best to arrive around 11:45 am, before mass commences.
Plaza of Independence
A view of the cathedral from Plaza of Independence, Malabo.
Opposite the cathedral, the Plaza of Independence (Plaza de la Independencia) contains traces of the long period of Spanish colonialism.
At the centre of the plaza stands a fountain, made of Carrara marble, with a Ceiba tree (a national symbol) at its centre.
A view of one of the ten tiled benches in the Plaza of Independence in Malabo.
Surrounding the fountain is a series of ten tiled benches and tiled pergolas. These have been recently renovated using not Spanish – but Italian – handmade tiles.
Malabo National Park
A view of Malabo National Park, which is a large manicured garden built by the Chinese.
Built by the China Road and Bridge Corporation, Malabo National Park is not a national park but a manicured garden, which features 8 different zones.
This new park is next door to the airport, and covers an area of 870,000 sq metres. The park offers restaurants, a sports area, activities for children, a lake with jet-skis and boats and an art gallery.
A statue of Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the president of Equatorial Guinea, at Malabo National Park.
As can be expected from a Chinese project, homage, in the form of a statue, is paid to the autocratic leader of Equatorial Guinea – Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. The statue is installed just inside the main entrance gate.
The president is a former military officer who has served as the second president of Equatorial Guinea since 3 August 1979.
As of 2024, he is the second-longest consecutively serving current non-royal national leader in the world.
A very empty Malabo National Park provides an ideal retreat from bustling Malabo.
On the day of my visit, I was the only visitor in the park.
If you would rather not walk in the steamy tropical heat, you have the option to rent a bike and cycle around the park. There’s even a lake where you can rent a rowboat.
The sculpture plaza at Malabo National Park.
Of the eight zones – the Ethnic Customs Zone features a plaza lined with totem sculptures which depict local customs and beliefs.
Malabo National Park offers eight zones to explore plus a couple of cafes.
While the park is beautiful and pleasant to walk around, it’s somewhat soulless and surreal and reminded me of empty ‘showpiece’ parks in Turkmenistan!
Paseo Maritimo
A view along the Paseo Maritimo in Malabo.
Speaking of empty and soulless, the Paseo Maritimo is a wide paved Malecón which follows along the shore of the bay in Malabo.
Whenever I visited, I was the only one there!
There are a couple of empty cafés which serve meals and drinks.
Plaza of Equatorial Guinea
“I heart Guinea Equatorial” at the Plaza of Equatorial Guinea.
Installed at the centre of the Paseo Maritimo, the Plaza of Equatorial Guinea features the tallest flagpole in Malabo (with the smallest of flags fluttering somewhere at the top).
The (again empty) plaza features an “I heart Malabo” and “I heart Guinea Equatorial” signs.
Finca Sampaka
The driveway to Finca Sampaka is lined with towering palm trees.
Located on the southern outskirts of Malabo, Finca Sampaka is a cacao and coffee producing estate which dates from 1906.
Finca Sampaka was established on the outskirts of Malabo in 1906.
The name Sampaka is derived from the name of the original settler to the area, Samuel Parker, who emigrated from Liberia. The district in which the farm is located is called the Sampaka district.
Finca Sampaka export cacao and coffee beans around the world.
The farm, which has an area of about 1,000 hectares, is known for producing high quality cocoa and coffee.
The shop at Finca Sampaka, where you can purchase chocolate, coffee and even pepper, all of which is produced on the estate.
In the 1990s, the farm was incorporated into the CAMASA company who today produce high quality chocolate bars, coffee and even a local version of Nutella.
Cacao beans, in the processing laboratory at Finca Sampaka.
In the interest of research for this travel guide, I purchased a selection of chocolate products to sample. They were truly delicious!
Nothing beats the amazing aroma of freshly blended chocolate – seen here at Finca Sampaka.
Guided tours of the estate are available and should be booked through the Contact page of the company website.
The CAMASA company produce high quality chocolate bars, coffee and even a local version of Nutella.
One of their most versatile products is their Crema de Cacao which is a local version of Nutella and, as per the label, can be enjoyed on bread, with deserts and even with fruits. Nice!
Coffee beans for sale at Finca Sampaka.
While chocolate is the mainstay of the farm, they also have a coffee tree plantation which produces very flavourful beans, which can be purchased at the farm shop.
Accommodation
Malabo
Ibis Malabo
Suffering issues with dampness, the Ibis Malabo Hotel has been under renovation for more than one year, with the external cladding slowly being replaced.
Thanks to the many visiting oil and gas executives, Malabo is blessed with a good selection of hotels – most of which cater to visiting business travellers with hefty travel budgets!
My spacious and comfortable room at the Ibis Malabo Hotel.
During my time in Malabo, I stayed at the very nice Ibis Malabo Hotel.
Room rates start at €110 for a standard room without breakfast. Since there are no restaurants or cafes nearby, it’s best to add breakfast which is an additional €10.
The hotel, which suffers from issues relating to dampness, has been under renovation for more than a year, with its exterior cladding being replaced.
My spacious and comfortable room at the Ibis Malabo Hotel.
Like many hotels in Malabo, the Ibis is located in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by a few government ministry buildings and lots of green parkland.
To travel anywhere, you will need transport or you’ll need to flag a shared taxi from the road. A trip into the downtown area costs CFA 1,000,
All rooms feature the standard Ibis pod-bathroom.
Due to its isolated location, most guests tend to eat dinner in the hotel restaurant.
During my stay the hotel was empty so the restaurant most nights was empty.
The pool at the Ibis Malabo, which was never used.
The hotel features a pool and a large green garden but this too was always empty.
Eating Out
Malabo
Cafe Malabo
Located in the heart of Malabo, the comfortable and inviting Café Malabo serves good coffee and excellent food.
The standout restaurant in the downtown area is the comfortable and inviting Café Malabowhich is the preferred venue for locals, ex-pats and any tourists which have ventured to this remote corner of the world.
Café Malabo serves as a cafe, restaurant, winery and a concert space for local performers.
Cafe Malabo is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves a variety of international (with an emphasis on Spanish) and local dishes.
Another excellent Café con leche at Café Malabo.
Apart from its excellent cafe offerings, Café Malabo serves as a restaurant, winery and a concert space for local performers.
Visa Requirements
My immigration entry and exit stamps for Equatorial Guinea.
In the past, obtaining a visa to visit Equatorial Guinea was notoriously difficult.
However, this has now changed thanks to a change in policy by the Government of Equatorial Guinea who has implemented a policy of economic diversification as a result of falling oil revenues, the main source of income for the Equatorial Guinean economy.
Within the framework of this diversification of the economy, the tourism sector plays an important role.
To help boost tourist arrivals, a new eVisa website has been created which now allows visitors to apply online for a visa, which is usually granted, without fuss, in five business days.
Never has there been an easier time to visit Equatorial Guinea!
The Visa Policy map of Equatorial Guinea. Source: Wikipedia.
Applications for an eVisa for Equatorial Guinea, must be made at the eVisa website which was developed by VFS global, a Swiss company. As can be expected from anything created by the Swiss, the website functions very efficiently.
the application process is very straight-forward and will require you to upload the following:
A scan of the photo page of your passport.
A return flight ticket (all eVisa holders must arrive at Malabo International Airport). Note: your visa will be made valid for the dates of your flights only.
A confirmed hotel reservation covering all the nights of your stay in the country.
Finally, you must pay, online, the processing fee of US$75 which is non-refundable.
A copy of my eVisa payment receipt.
Once submitted, you will receive a receipt via email (as shown above).
After a processing time of 5-days you should receive your eVisa via email. This should be printed and presented upon arrival at Malabo International Airport.
When you arrive at Malabo airport, you will be simply stamped into and out of the country.
You will not receive a full-page visa in your passport.
Getting There
Departure board at Malabo International Airport.
Air
Malabo Airport
All international flights arrive at Malabo International Airport, or Saint Isabel Airport, (IATA: SSG) which is located on the island of Bioko. The airport is located 9 kilometres (5.6 mi) to the east of Malabo.
All eVisa holders must arrive at Malabo International Airport.
If you are arriving from a neighbouring African country, you can’t help but be impressed by the new modern, shiny terminal building with its 6 air-bridges which was built by a Chinese company, ABC Construcciones WEI.
Although there is plenty of retail space allocated inside the terminal, there are currently no shops and no cafes at the airport. You should bring any food and drinks you might need prior to your flight.
Test your knowledge with this currency quiz from taste2travel.
How well will you score? Your result will be displayed at the bottom of the quiz.
Good luck and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
01. The Central African CFA franc is the official currency of how many central African countries?
Correct!Wrong!
There are six central African countries which form the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
02. If you were shopping in Paro, Bhutan, and spending the local currency, which would you be using?
Correct!Wrong!
Bhutan's unit of currency is called Ngultrum (BTN). A Ngultrum has the same value as the Indian rupee, which is also legal in Bhutan.
03. Which is the official currency of the island of Niue?
Correct!Wrong!
Niue, a country in free association with New Zealand, uses only one official legal tender currency, which is the New Zealand dollar.
04. Which official currency would you be spending if you were visiting Easter Island?
Correct!Wrong!
A region of Chile, the official currency on Easter Island is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
05. Which local currency would be be using if you were paying a restaurant bill in Warsaw?
Correct!Wrong!
The word “zloty” means “golden” in Polish.
06. Which is the unit of currency of Barbados?
Correct!Wrong!
The official currency in Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD).
07. Which is the unit of currency of Mauritania?
Correct!Wrong!
The ouguiya at one time spelled "ougiya", is the currency of Mauritania.
08. Which local currency would you be spending if you were holidaying on the island of Boracay?
Correct!Wrong!
The Philippine peso (PHP), or 'piso' in Filipino, is the official currency of the Philippines.
09. Which local currency would you be spending if you were visiting Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname?
Correct!Wrong!
The Surinamese dollar (SRD) has been the currency of Suriname since 2004.
10. Which is the official currency of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon?
Correct!Wrong!
The Euro is the official currency of this French territory which is located off the east coast of Canada.
11. On which island is the Eastern Caribbean dollar the official currency?
Correct!Wrong!
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the official currency of eight Caribbean island countries: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
12. Which is the unit of currency of Angola?
Correct!Wrong!
13. Which is the official currency of Libya?
Correct!Wrong!
The Libyan Dinar is the official currency of Libya.
14. Which currency would you be spending if you were holidaying on Norfolk Island?
Correct!Wrong!
A territory of Australia, the official currency of Norfolk Island is the Australian dollar.
15. Which currency would you be spending if you were visiting Ushuaia, the world's most southerly town and the gateway to Antarctica?
Correct!Wrong!
16. Which is the unit of currency of Curaçao?
Correct!Wrong!
The Netherlands Antillean guilder is the currency of Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
17. Which currency would you be spending if you were visiting Andorra?
Correct!Wrong!
Andorra signed a Monetary Agreement with the European Union on 30 June 2011. As a result, Andorra can use the euro as its official currency and issue its own euro coins.
18. Pictured here are the 5,000 and 10,000 franc banknotes from which country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Comorian franc is the official currency of the African island nation of Comoros. The Comoros franc (KMF) is pegged to the euro at an effective rate of 492 KMF to 1 EUR.
19. Which is the official unit of currency of Iran?
Correct!Wrong!
The Iranian rial is the official legal currency of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Although the rial is the official currency, Iranians use the toman in everyday life.
20. Which is the official currency of the British overseas territory of Pitcairn Islands?
Correct!Wrong!
The Pitcairn Islands is a British overseas territory which uses the New Zealand dollar as its primary currency. However, the territory has issued commemorative Pitcairn Islands dollar coins since 1988.
Travel Quiz 72: Currency Quiz
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My name is Darren McLean, I’m the owner of taste2travel and I love travel trivia and I certainly enjoy creating travel quizzes.
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All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 233 countries and territories, and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is a Comoros Travel Guide from taste2travel.com
Date Visited: February 2024
Introduction
Tucked away in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, off the coast of east Africa, the Comoros Islands beckon travellers with their untouched beauty and captivating allure.
An octopus collector on Grand Comore, hunting for octopus at low tide.
Largely undeveloped and totally off the tourist radar, this unknown and hidden archipelago is a tapestry of volcanic landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, waiting to be discovered.
The Comoros Islands, consisting of Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan, and Mayotte, each offer a unique charm waiting to be explored.
The French administered Mayotte separately from the remainder of the Comoros beginning in 1975, when the three northernmost and predominantly Muslim islands of the Comoros declared independence, and the Muslim and Christian inhabitants of Mayotte chose to remain with France.
Mayotte Travel Guide
Mayotte, which is the most easterly of the four islands of the Comoran archipelago, is an overseas department of France, which is still claimed by the government of Comoros.
Having an outpost of the European Union located in close proximity to one of the poorest countries on the planet ensures that Mayotte is beset by a plethora of social issues which are the result of numerous Comoran refugees who travel illegally to the island by boat.
The main island. Grande Comore, is home to the capital, Moroni, and the only international airport in the country.
The island is dominated by the towering Mount Karthala (2,361 metre / 7,746 feet), an active volcano which occasionally erupts, covering the island in jet-black lava boulders.
A view of Maloudja Beach on Grand Comore.
In between the black lava flows lie stunning, white sand beaches, which are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
Comoros is a true paradise which still remains largely undeveloped. While the neighbouring island nations of Seychelles and Mauritius have fine-tuned their tourism offering, tourism remains undeveloped on Comoros. There are just five hotels listed on Booking.com on the main island of Grande Comore.
Comoros is home to many large Baobab trees.
Beyond the natural beauty of the islands lies the heart of the Comoros – its people.
Comoros is a safe and welcoming destination.
The warm smiles of locals welcome you as you delve into the rich tapestry of Comorian culture, which has been influenced from centuries of trade with Africa, Arabia and Asia.
Despite the entire island being covered in black volcanic lava, there are plenty of white sand beaches on Grand Comore.
The Comoros Islands offer an authentic Indian Ocean travel experience that is as captivating as it is unforgettable.
It’s a destination which is ideal for intrepid travellers who seek to get off the well-worn tourist circuit, and of course for the country-counters who are determined to visit all 193 UN countries.
Location
Moroni, Comoros
The Comoros Islands are located about 320 km (200 mi) off the eastern coast of Africa, in close proximity to Tanzania, Mozambique and Madagascar.
An archipelago nation, the Comoros consist of four main islands.
Grande Comore
Mohéli
Anjouan
Mayotte (an overseas department of France, geographically part of the Comoros but politically distinct)
A view of Grande Comore Island, which is covered in black lava.
The islands are of volcanic origin, with Mount Karthala on Grande Comore being an active volcano and one of the tallest peaks in the Indian Ocean.
People
The people of the Comoros, known as Comorians (population: 820,000) are a diverse and culturally rich population with a unique ethnic blend of African, Arab, and Malagasy, which reflects the islands’ history of trade and settlement.
The official languages of the Comoros are Comorian, French, and Arabic. Comorian is widely spoken among the population, with different dialects spoken on each of the main islands.
Islam is the dominant religion in the Comoros, with the majority of Comorians adhering to Sunni Islam. The practice of Islam plays a central role in daily life, culture, and traditions.
Flag
The flag of the Comoros.
The flag of Comoros was officially adopted on January 7, 2002, following a national referendum. The current design was chosen to better reflect the unity, history, and aspirations of the Comorian nation.
A souvenir Comoran flag.
The flag design consists of a white crescent with four white five-pointed stars inside of a green triangle.
The flag has four stripes, representing the four main islands of the nation: yellowfor Mohéli, white for Mayotte (a French department claimed by the Comoros), red for Anjouan and bluefor Grande Comore.
The four stars on the flag also symbolise the four islands. The star and crescent, as well as the colour green on the flag, symbolise the main religion of the country – Islam.
Currency
The Comorian franc is the official currency of the Comoros.
The official currency of Comoros is the Comorian franc (FC), which has the currency code of KMF.
The Comorian franc is issued and regulated by the Central Bank of the Comoros, which is the country’s central monetary authority.
It is used for all financial transactions within the country, including daily purchases, business transactions, and banking operations.
Credit cards are rarely accepted on the Comoros.
A view of the obverse side of Comoran franc banknotes, which feature Arabic script.
Banknotes, which are printed by the Bank of France, are issued in denominations of 500 FC, 1,000 FC, 2,000 FC, 5,000 FC, 10,000 FC.
Coins are issued in denominations of 25 FC, 50 FC, 100 FC, 250 FC.
Credit Cards
In the few places on Comoros where credit cards are accepted, only Visa card is accepted.
Like so many countries in Africa, credit cards are rarely accepted on the Comoros. Cash is king!
This lack of credit card acceptance is due to the fact that 95% of Africans do not have a bank account and hence, do not own any plastic bank cards. All transactions are conducted in cash!
The only businesses which accept credit cards are a couple of the better hotels which deal with foreign tourists.
Throughout Comoros, whenever credit cards are accepted, only Visa card is accepted.
If you are using Mastercard, American Express or any other card, you will find your card is not accepted.
A very frustrating experience!
BFC bank in Moroni provides the one ATM in the Comoros which accepts Mastercard and American Express.
The one lifeline, for non-Visa card holders, is the single ATM which is installed at the Moroni branch of Banque Fédérale des Commerce (BFC), which is the main commercial bank on the Comoros Islands.
Because they are the main business bank for the country, they feel it is appropriate that they accept all major credit cards.
The only ATMs on Grand Comore are located in downtown Moroni.
There are no ATMs at the airport. It is essential to arrive on the Comoros with either EUR or USD cash!
Costs
Travel costs on Comoros are the highest of any country in eastern Africa!
Sample costs:
Cappuccino? – I found nowhere on Comoros which offered barista-made coffee.
Can of Coke/ Sprite: €1.50
Small bottled water: €0.50
Imported Beer: €7.50
Meal at a mid-range restaurant: €10
Meal at the Golden Tulip Hotel: €15
Hotel room at the Golden Tulip Hotel: €130
Daytrip tour with Adore Comore tour company: €80 per person (minimum of 2 people)
Tour Companies
My guide, from Adore Comore, at Lac Salé.
While on Grand Comore, I toured the island with an excellent guide from the Adore Comore tour company.
The company offers a range of daytrips which are priced from €80 per person (minimum 2 pax).
As a single pax, I had to pay €160 for a day trip which makes for an expensive outing.
During our day trip, our car suffered a punctured tire which was not surprising considering the terrible condition of the roads.
Sightseeing
Grand Comore, also known as Ngazidja, is the largest and most populous island in the Comoros archipelago. It offers a diverse range of sights and attractions for visitors to explore.
The island is dominated by Mount Karthala, an active shield volcano and the highest point in the Comoros. It stands at approximately 2,361 metres (7,746 feet) above sea level.
Moroni
A view of Moroni harbour and the historic Friday Mosque.
Moroni, the capital of the Comoros, lies in the shadow of Mount Karthala, on the west coast of Grand Comore.
The iconic view of Moroni is of the (heavily polluted) harbour and the Friday Mosque (Mosquée de Vendredi), which was constructed in 1427, without a minaret. It wasn’t until 1921 that a minaret was finally added.
As the main commercial centre on the Comoros, chaotic Moroni is home to a bustling market.
Lac Salé (Salt Lake)
A view of Lac Salé, where the water colour fluctuates between blue, brown and green.
A highlight of Grand Comore is Lac Salé, or Salt Lake, a unique geological formation located on the north coast of Grand Comore.
The lake’s high salinity creates striking contrasts of colors, with the water colour fluctuating (throughout the day) between blue, brown and green.
The colour of the lake water contrasts strongly with the turquoise waters of the adjacent Indian Ocean.
Dos du Dragon
“Dos du Dragon,” or the dragon’s back, looks like a mythical creature, resting by the sea.
Located a short drive beyond the Salt Lake, Dos du Dragon, or the “dragon’s back” is a rocky protrusion jutting out into the Indian Ocean.
Mitsamiouli Beach
A view of beautiful Mitsamiouli Beach.
Located on the northwest coast of Grande Comore, beautiful MitsamiouliBeach is home to a pretty stretch of white-sand, surrounded by black volcanic lava and backed by a line of palm trees.
A Comoran family, enjoying a day out at Mitsamiouli Beach.
The government of Qatar, through the Qatar National Hotels Company, is currently building a new beachside resort in Mitsamiouli.
For this reason, the road between the airport and Mitsamiouli has been completely resurfaced and is currently the best road anywhere in the Comoros.
Sada Beach
A view of Sada Beach at low tide.
Sada Beach is home to a small community of expat holiday houses.
Most of the large homes that line the coast are boarded up since most of the residents are only in-country for a few weeks at a time.
Giant Baobab Tree
The giant Baobab tree.
Located near the airport, a huge, hollow, Baobab tree makes for an interesting stop while driving along the west coast.
My guide, from Adore Comoros, providing a sense of scale for this giant Baobab tree.
A large opening at the base of the tree allows access into a lofty, hollow, chamber which provides an interesting perspective on the world.
A view inside the hollow of the giant Baobab tree.
Accommodation
There is a very limited number of accommodation options on the Comoros, with bookimg.com listing just 5 properties on Grande Comore.
Golden Tulip Hotel
The Golden Tulip Hotel offers the best accommodation on the Comoros.
The only international chain hotel on the Comoros is the Golden Tulip Hotel which offers the best accommodation in the country.
The hotel is located on the west coast of Grande Comore, 10 km south of the airport and 10 km north of the capital, Moroni.
A public taxi from the airport to the hotel costs 5,000 KMF (€10) while the hotel charges 15,000 KMF (€30) for an airport shuttle.
Apart from its comfortable rooms, the hotel offers a very good restaurant which attracts both guests and visiting locals who come for all sorts of functions and events.
The hotel offers the best restaurant on the island and the only conference/ meeting room facilities, which ensures a steady stream of corporate guests.
My spacious and comfortable room at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Comoros.
A standard room on booking.com costs around US$130 with payment options at the hotel limited to cash or Visa credit card.
The hotel does not accept Mastercard or American Express.
One way to stay at the hotel, and pay with any credit card, is to book a room through expedia.com and select the option to ‘Pay in Advance‘. This will allow you to pay with any credit card via Expedia.
The hotel offers spacious and comfortable, albeit slightly dated, rooms which overlook the palm-tree studded garden and unbeatable views of the Indian Ocean.
A view of the garden, and the Indian Ocean, from my room at the Golden Tulip Hotel.
The hotel also features its own private beach and a family of giant tortoises which act as lawn mowers, gradually grazing their way around the hotel lawn.
The lawn at the Golden Tulip Hotel is kept in good order thanks to a family of grazing tortoises.
Reverse Money Exchange:
Comoran francs cannot be exchanged outside of the country and it can be difficult to change excess francs back into hard currency at the end of your trip.
I was able to exchange excess francs, for both EUR and USD, at the reception desk at the Golden Tulip Hotel.
A great service for departing guests.
Hôtel La Grillade
A view of the Hôtel La Grillade, which is located a short drive north of Moroni.
Also located on the west coast, 1 km north of Moroni, the mid-range Hôtel La Grillade offers very average rooms for about €80 per night.
I would rate the hotel as 1-2 stars and not worth the money that is being charged.
Payment is either cash or Visa card only!
The hotel has a decent restaurant which offers reasonable food.
A public taxi from the airport to the hotel costs 5,000 KMF (€10) while the hotel charges 10,000 KMF (€20) for an airport shuttle.
Eating Out
Every day at low tide, hordes of locals search for octopus in tidal rock pools.
The cuisine of Comoros reflects influences from Africa, Arabia, Madagascar and beyond. As can be expected on an island nation, seafood dominates the diet with fish, octopus and lobster especially popular.
Golden Tulip Hotel
Breakfast, with a view of the Indian Ocean, at the Golden Tulip Hotel.
The outdoor, ocean-front, restaurant at the Golden Tulip Hotel is one of the most popular restaurants on Grande Comore.
The best breakfast, anywhere on Grande Comore, is served on the balcony of the restaurant, with a front-row seat overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
A delicious, seared-tuna, salad, served at the Golden Tulip Hotel.
Specialties include lobster and a very tasty seared-tuna salad which is made from freshly caught tuna.
Hotel La Grillade
The restaurant menu at the Hotel La Grillade features locally caught lobster, which is very affordable at €12.
While the rooms at Hotel La Grillade are very average, the food served in the restaurant by the friendly staff is anything but average!
Their lobster meal, which costs just €12, is an absolute bargain.
I also recommend their fillet steak, which is served with a creamy pepper sauce! Delicious!
Highly recommended!
Sada Beach Restaurant
My lunch stop at Sada Beach during a trip to the north of Grande Comore.
During a trip to the north coast of Grande Comore with Adore Comoros, I had lunch at a rustic beachfront restaurant at Sada Beach.
My tasty, and spicy, freshly caught, tuna curry lunch at Sada Beach.
Owned by a Comoran couple, the husband used to work as a chef in a nearby resort, until the resort closed.
I was treated to a beautiful tuna curry with salad, rice, plantains and more. Very nice!
Visa Requirements
My Comoros Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) which was issued without fuss at Moroni International Airport.
The Visa Policy of Comoros is wonderfully simple.
All nationalities require a visa which can be purchased on arrival at Moroni International Airport.
Visas cost €30, or US$50, for stays of up to 45 days.
Free of charge visas are issued to transit visitors with a stay for a maximum of 24 hours
All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months and return or onward tickets.
My visa was issued, without fuss, by friendly immigration officers in about 10-minutes.
Getting There
Ethiopian Airlines flies daily from Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) to Moroni, via Dar es Salaam (Tanzania).
Air
All visitors arrive at Moroni International Airport, aka Prince Said Ibrahim International Airport (IATA: HAH), the only international gateway to the Comoros.
The airport is located on the west coast of Grande Comore, 20 km (12 mi) north of Moroni.
The following airlines provide service to/ from Moroni:
Air Austral – flies to/from Saint-Denis de la Réunion
Air Madagascar – flies to/from Antananarivo, Majunga
Test your knowledge with this map quiz from taste2travel.
How well will you score? Your result will be displayed at the bottom of the quiz.
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05. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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06. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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07. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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08. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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09. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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10. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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11. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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12. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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13. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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14. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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15. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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16. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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17. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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18. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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19. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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20. Which country is highlighted on the map?
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Travel Quiz 71: World Map Quiz
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Flags
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This is a Commonwealth Country Flags Quiz from taste2travel!
How well do you know your Commonwealth country flags? Are you a true vexillologist?
Test your knowledge with this flag quiz from taste2travel.
How well will you score? Your result will be displayed at the bottom of the quiz.
Good luck!
01. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The design of the flag of Namibia consists of a white-edged red diagonal band, creating two triangles - the upper blue triangle is charged with a yellow sun with 12 rays, and a lower green triangle.
The sun is to represent life and energy, red for heroism of the people and their determination to build a future of equal opportunity. Green is for agricultural resources, blue is for the sky and the ocean, white for peace and unity.
02. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The design of the flag of Uganda consists of two sets of black, yellow and red horizontal bands.
The black is for the African people, yellow for the African sunshine, and red being the colour of the African brotherhood - being the colour of blood, through which all African people are connected.
In the centre of the field is a white disc charged with the national emblem, which is a grey crowned crane, facing the hoist side.
The cranes raised leg is for the forward movement of the country.
03. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The flag of Canada consists of a red field with a white square at its centre, positioned inside which is an 11 pointed red maple leaf. Due to this distinctive design feature, the Canadian flag is sometimes referred to colloquially as the "Maple Leaf".
04. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
Although Rwanda never had any historical ties to the United Kingdom, it chose to join the Commonwealth of Nations in 2009 to take advantage of the diplomatic and economic ties that membership would bring.
This Rwandan flag design consists of a tri-colour of blue, yellow and green, with the blue stripe being the widest and the yellow and green of equal size. The blue stripe is charged with a yellow sun situated in the upper right corner of the fly side.
Symbolically, the blue band is for happiness and peace, the yellow band economic development and the yellow sun for enlightenment. The lower green band is for the hope of prosperity. The design of the Rwandan flag was adopted in 2001 and was chosen to avoid any connotations to the genocide in 1994. The new design as a whole is said to represent national unity, respect for work, confidence in the future and heroism.
05. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The design of the flag of Sierra Leone is a tri-colour of green, white and blue with the green symbolising the country's natural resources, agriculture and the mountains. White is for unity and justice, and blue is for the harbour of Freetown, the Capital city of Sierra Leone.
06. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
This design of the New Zealand flag was adopted in 1902 and consists of a blue field with a Union Jack in the upper left corner of the hoist side (the Canton) and 4 red stars, bordered with white on the fly side of the flag - these are based on the Southern Cross.
The stars of the Southern Cross represent the country's location in the South Pacific Ocean while the Union Jack recognises NZ's historical origins as a British colony.
07. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
When Belize became Independent in 1981, this flag design was adopted. The Belize flag consists of a blue background, red borders top and bottom, and Coat of Arms in the middle.
The Coat of Arms is said to represent the logging industry that first lead the British to settle there. The colours represent the country's national parties, the red being added after the United Democrats Party objected to the flag only being blue and white originally as that was the People's United Party's representatives colours.
08. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
Although Mozambique never had any historical ties to the United Kingdom, it chose to join the Commonwealth of Nations in 1995 to take advantage of the diplomatic and economic ties that membership would bring.
This flag of Mozambique was adopted in 1983 and consists of a tri-colour flag of green, black and yellow stripes edged with white. On the hoist side there is an isosceles triangle in red with a yellow star in the centre. Superimposed on the star is an AK-47 with a bayonet attached to the barrel crossed over a farming mattock over an open book.
Green stands for the riches of the land, the white edging for peace. Black is for the African continent, yellow for the countries mineral and red the struggle for independence. The rifle stands for defense and vigilance, the open book for the importance of education, the hoe represents the country's agriculture. The star symbolises Marxism and internationalism.
09. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
An iconic flag - the Union Jack consists of the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England, which also represents Wales), edged in white, superimposed on the saltire of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland), also edged in white, which are superimposed on the saltire of Saint Andrew (patron saint of Scotland). Wales is not represented in the Union Flag by Wales's patron saint, Saint David, because the flag was designed whilst Wales was part of the Kingdom of England.
10. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Zambian flag's colours and emblems are rich in symbolism. Each of the four colours represents an aspect of Zambia: green for the country's natural resources and vegetation; red for its struggle for freedom; black for its people and orange for its mineral wealth (primarily copper).
The eagle is an African fish eagle, which also appears in the national coat of arms and represents the people's ability to rise above the nation's problems.
11. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Tanzania flag was adopted in 1964 when Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged and the current flag design was created to replace the two individual flags. This design incorporates elements of both of the former flags - it consists of a black diagonal stripe edged in yellow, dividing the upper green triangle from the lower blue triangle.
The green represents the natural vegetation and agricultural resources of the country. The black is to represent the Swahili people who are native to Tanzania. The blue is for the Indian ocean and numerous lakes and rivers of the land. The thin yellow stripes represent the mineral wealth of Tanzania.
12. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The colours of the flag of the Bahamas carry cultural, political, and regional meanings.
The gold alludes the shining sun – as well as other key land-based natural resources – while the aquamarine epitomises the water surrounding the country. The black symbolises the vigour, and force of the Bahamian people, while the directed triangle evokes their "enterprising and determined" nature to cultivate the abundant natural resources on the land and in the sea.
13. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
This current design of the Guyana flag was adopted in 1966 and is known as the 'golden arrowhead'.
This design came about when Guyana became independent from the United Kingdom.
The design consists of a green field with a black edged red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side, on top of a larger yellow triangle with a white border.
The symbolism of the colours of the Guyana flag are as follows - green for the agricultural and forests, white for many rivers of the country. Gold for the mineral wealth, red for zeal and sacrifice in nation-building, and black represents perseverance.
14. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The design of the flag of South Africa consists of a horizontal red stripe on the top, and an equal blue stripe on the bottom. These stripes are divided by a green band running towards the hoist side of the flag, where it splits into a wide horizontal Y shape.
The green band is bordered by thin white stripes running along the top and bottoms sides. Inside the Y shape is a black isosceles triangle edged with narrow yellow stripes.
The colours themselves are noted to 'not have any essential meaning' however the colours come from different sources. Black green and yellow are from the African National Congress while the blue white and red are found in both the former flag of South Africa and the flag of the United Kingdom.
15. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The colours and symbols of the Tongan flag carry cultural, political, and regional meanings. The red cross alludes to Christianity, the religion practiced by approximately 97% of the country's population. It is one of 28 national flags to contain overtly Christian symbols.
The white epitomizes purity, while the red evokes the sacrifice of the Blood of Christ, which was shed during the Crucifixion.
16. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
This flag was adopted after a competition was held in 1967 to design a new flag, to mark the achievement of self-government.
The colours of the Antigua and Barbuda flag represent different elements, with the yellow, blue and white standing for the sea, the sun and the sand, while the black and red represent the African ancestry of the people, and red for energy or the life of the people. The blue also represents the Caribbean sea, while the V shape of the design represents Victory.
17. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Malawi flag design consists of a horizontal tri-band of black, red and green stripes. The black stripe has a red rising sun with 31 rays. Symbolically, the 31 rays represent that Malawi was the 31st African nation at the time to gain independence.
The black is for the indigenous people of the land, red for the blood of their struggle and green to represent nature.
18. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The red field on the Singapore flag symbolises "universal fellowship and equality", while the white filed symbolises "pervading and everlasting purity and virtue".
The crescent moon represents a "young nation on the ascendant". The five stars stand for the nation's ideals of "democracy, peace, progress, justice and equality".
The crescent symbol is also seen by the nation's Muslim activists to represent Islam.
19. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Islamic green of the flag of Pakistan represents the Muslim-majority populace of Pakistan while the white stripe on the hoist-end represents its various religious minorities i.e. Non-Muslims, such as Hindus, Christians, Sikhs, Zoroastrians and others.
The combined star and crescent serve as a symbol of Islam, with the crescent representing progress and the five-pointed star representing light and knowledge. The flag symbolises Pakistan's commitment to both Islam as well as the rights of religious minorities.
20. This is the flag of which Commonwealth country?
Correct!Wrong!
The flag of the Seychelles consists of five different coloured bands (blue, yellow, red, white, and green) starting from one end and diverging towards the other end.
The oblique bands symbolise a dynamic new country moving into the future. The colour blue depicts the sky and the sea that surrounds the Seychelles. Yellow is for the sun which gives light and life, red symbolises the people and their determination to work for the future in unity and love, while the white band represents social justice and harmony. The green depicts the land and natural environment.
Travel Quiz 70: Commonwealth Country Flags Quiz
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Welcome to taste2travel!
My name is Darren McLean, I’m the owner of taste2travel and I love travel trivia and I certainly enjoy creating travel quizzes.
There are a total of 80 different travel quizzes on taste2travel, with each quiz containing 20 questions.
That’s a total of 1,600 trivia questions waiting to challenge you.
You’ll find a range of quizzes covering such topics as:
Currencies
Flags
Capital Cities
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
World Museums
Map Quizzes
Continent-specific Quizzes
World Islands
Landlocked Countries and much more!
Don’t forget to share these quizzes with your family, friends and community using the social media buttons at the top of the quiz.
Apart from excellent travel quizzes, you’ll also find other outstanding content on taste2travel – such as travel guides, photo galleries and feature articles which provide tips on booking cheap flights and much more.
To read about this destination, please refer to my Niue Travel Guide.
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About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 230 countries and territories, and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
Affectionally known as ‘The Rock’, the tiny Pacific Ocean island of Niue is a charming, remote, off-the-beaten track destination.
A raised limestone reef with no beaches, but plenty of cliffs and reef, Niue is affectionally known as ‘The Rock’.
With a small and friendly population of 1,620 Polynesians, tiny Niue is full of surprises. The name Niue (pronounced ‘Noo-ay‘) translates as ‘behold the coconut’.
A raised slab of limestone reef, the profile of Niue is similar to that of a ‘top hat’, with sheer cliffs rising up 20 metres from the sea, forming the sides of the hat.
Colourful Niuean design.
The top of the hat is a large flat plateau, while the ‘rim’ of the hat is a fringing reef which surrounds the entire island. There are just a few places where narrow channels through the reef allow locals to access the sea.
Niue is entirely surrounded by a fringing reef.
The entire population lives on the plateau, with everyone living along the coast, while the empty interior of the island is uninhabited and occupied by forest and taro fields.
Niue Blue! Another perfect day in paradise!
A 62 km (38 mi) ring road around the coast links all of the island’s communities. Two cross-island roads link the west and east coast, a drive of just 19 km (12 mi).
Artwork in Alofi.
Most of population lives on the west coast (the leeward side of the island), in and around the main town, and administrative centre of Alofi.
The east coast (the windward side of the island) is sparsely populated, being home to a few sleepy villages.
A hidden gem – tiny Tamakautoga Beach is one of the few beaches on Niue.
Being surrounded by a fringing reef, Niue lacks the sandy beaches which might otherwise attract the tourist hordes. However, what the island lacks in beaches, it makes up for in other ways.
A view of Talava Arch, a highlight of Niue.
The entire coast is lined with dramatic limestone caves, chasms, arches and other geological wonders.
Well maintained sea tracks provide access to turquoise-blue swimming holes where a rich array of tropical fish can be found. There are many snorkeling opportunities on the island.
Close to the shore, the water depth is around 50 metres, while a few kilometres from shore, the water depth is 2,000 metres.
Beyond the reef, the island slopes away quickly, with water depths ranging from 50 m (165 ft) near the shore, to a depth of over 2,000 m (6,560 ft) within a few kilometres of shore.
Update: August 2024 – “Protecting Paradise: The Story of Niue”
A recently released National Geographic documentary, “Protecting Paradise: The Story of Niue”, captures the spirit of the Niueans and the beauty of this special paradise island.
Scuba Diving conditions on Niue are perfect! With an absence of sand and a lack of rivers on the island, there is nothing that disturbs the incredible clarity of the sea water. Water visibility is excellent up to 85 metres.
With excellent underwater visibility, Niue is a scuba diver’s paradise.
There is one scuba diving shop on the island – the excellent and professional Niue Blue. I did a 2-tank dive with them which was a highlight of my trip. For more information, please refer to the ‘Scuba Diving‘ section below.
Enjoying scuba diving on Niue with Niue Blue.
While not a cheap destination (please refer to the ‘Costs‘ section below for more information), Niue is a charming, surprising and engaging destination.
With a small and friendly local population, this tiny island will surprise and delight with all it offers.
A view of the north coast of Niue at Uluvehi.
In just over 3-hours flying time from Auckland, New Zealand, visitors to Niue will find themselves transported to another world. With its Jurassic-like geological formations and crystal-clear waters, Niue is like no other destination!
Highly recommended!
Location
Niue is a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is situated about 2,400 kilometres (about 1,500 miles) northeast of New Zealand, within the triangle formed by the Cook Islands, Tonga, and Samoa.
Niue is known as a raised coral atoll, and its terrain is characterized by limestone cliffs, caves, and a central plateau.
A view of the reef which completely encircles Niue.
The island has a total land area of about 260 square kilometres (100 square miles).
The coastline features a fringing reef which is backed by rugged cliffs.
Not a place for a beach holiday, Niue is a raised limestone rock, completely surrounded by reef.
The capital and largest village is Alofi, located on the western coast of the island.
While Niue is a relatively small and isolated island, it is surrounded by the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, making it a remote but scenically beautiful destination.
Sunset on Niue.
The island’s isolation and unique geography contribute to its distinct cultural and environmental characteristics.
A noticeboard on Niue illustrates cyclone intensity levels. Watch what happens to the tree at each level.
Niue is located in the Pacific cyclone zone and has been battered by severe cyclones in the past.
In 2004, Cyclone Heta, a Category 5 cyclone, caused massive damage to Niue, with huge waves breaking on top of the (20 metre high) sea cliffs.
People
The 1,620 inhabitants of Niue are predominantly Polynesians.
The people of Niue are known as Niueans. Home to a small, close-knit community of 1,620 souls, the population is, predominately, of Polynesian descent.
Due to its small population and close-knit community, social relationships are often tightly woven, and individuals often have multiple roles within the community.
Religion, particularly Christianity, is also an important aspect of Niuean life, and the majority of the population is affiliated with various Christian denominations.
Niueans are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community.
Colourful artwork adorns a small wooden building in Alofi.
The culture places a high value on respect for elders and a communal approach to decision-making. Traditional customs and practices, such as dance, music, and art, play a significant role in Niuean life.
The Niuean language, closely related to other Polynesian languages, is an essential part of their cultural identity.
In recent years, Niue has faced challenges related to depopulation, with some Niueans migrating to New Zealand and other countries for better economic opportunities.
However, efforts are being made to preserve and promote Niuean culture and identity both on the island and within the diaspora.
Niuean Hiapo
Hiapo art work on display at the Niue Visitors Centre in Alofi.
Traditional bark cloth painting is something which is found throughout the islands of the south Pacific.
On Niue this lost art form, which is known locally as Hiapo, is being revived by Niuean artist Cora-Allan Wickliffe.
Hiapo art work on display at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Examples of Hiapo art adorn the walls of the Niue Visitors Centre and the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Flag
The flag of Niue.
The flag of Niue was adopted on 15 October 1975. It consists of the Union Jack in the upper left corner with a star in the middle of the Union Jack and four stars forming a diamond around it.
It is very unusual for a flag based on a British ensign design, in having not only a yellow background, but also a defaced (edited) Union Jack in the canton.
The flag of Niue, flying on Niue.
The flag was designed by Patricia Rex, the wife of the then-Premier Robert Rex.
The design elements of the flag include the Union Jack, which symbolises the protection granted by the United Kingdom in 1900 after petitioning by the Kings and Chiefs of Niue.
The yellow field symbolises “the bright sunshine of Niue and the warm feelings of the Niuean people towards New Zealand and her people.”
The association with New Zealand, which took over responsibility and administration of Niue in 1901, is also represented by the four small stars that depict the Southern Cross.
The flag of Niue.
Finally, the blue disc containing a larger star represents the deep blue sea surrounding the self-governing island of Niue
Currency
The official currency of Niue is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
The official currency of Niue is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Niue does not have its own separate currency and has chosen to use the New Zealand Dollar as its official legal tender.
The colourful New Zealand dollar banknotes are printed on polymer.
This arrangement is part of Niue’s status as a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand.
As a result, the New Zealand Dollar is widely used for everyday transactions, and the Reserve Bank of New Zealand is responsible for issuing and regulating the currency in Niue. The coins and banknotes used in Niue are the same as those used in New Zealand.
Exchange Rates
The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is the official currency of Niue.
As of December 2023, the exchange rate between the NZD and USD was:
$1 NZD = $0.60 USD
To check the current exchange rate, please click here.
The bank also serves as the one branch of the Niue Post Office.
ATMs
While there are no ATMs on Niue, cash can be accessed at the one branch of the Niue Development Bank in Alofi.
There are no ATMs on Niue, but you can withdraw cash at the one branch of the Niue Development Bank which is located in Alofi.
Credit Cards
Credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted on Niue.
Most merchants on the island have EFTPOS terminals and prefer cashless payments.
Rarely did I need to use cash, however, it’s prudent to carry some cash from New Zealand for emergencies.
While your home bank will most likely charge you an ‘exchange’ fee for any overseas credit card transactions, businesses on Niue will additionally charge you a credit card usage fee, which is typically around 3-5% on each transaction.
Philately
The stamps of Niue are popular with philatelists around the world.
Niue is known for issuing a variety of colourful and thematic postage stamps.
Stamps are often issued to commemorate special occasions, anniversaries, and international events, making them not only a means of postage but also a form of cultural expression and representation for the people of Niue.
The stamps of Niue showcase local culture, history, fauna and flora.
These stamps often feature unique designs that showcase the natural beauty, culture, history, and important events related to Niue.
The themes of Niuean stamps can vary widely, including marine life, endemic flora and fauna, cultural symbols, historical figures, and significant events.
The stamps of Niue feature scenes from this beautiful Pacific island.
Niue is part of the wider philatelic community and often collaborates with other countries on joint stamp issues. These joint issues may commemorate shared historical or cultural connections.
Niue Philatelic and Numismatic Corporation
The office of the Niue Philatelic and Numismatic Corporation (NPNC) is in a small shopping complex behind Swanson’s supermarket.
While on the island, stamps can be purchased from either the one branch of Niue Post which is housed inside the Niue Development Bank branch in Alofi or from the Niue Philatelic and Numismatic Corporation (NPNC), which is in a small shopping complex, behind Swanson’s supermarket.
Niue First Day Covers (FDC’s) at the Niue Philatelic and Numismatic Corporation.
Also available from the NPNC are specially issued Niue commemorative coins, which are produced by the New Zealand Mint.
Folders of Niue stamps at the NPNC.
The staff at the NPNC can be contacted for any overseas orders.
The stamps of Niue feature local flora, fauna, landscapes and cultural and historical themes.
Internet Services
Telecom Niue is the only telecom service provider on the island.
One of the first stops for many visitors to Niue is the office of Telecom Niue, the sole provider of telecom services on the island.
Telecom Niue does not have any international roaming agreements with foreign operators; therefore, you cannot use roaming while in Niue.
The Visitor SIM package from Telecom Niue.
If you wish to have internet connection while on Niue, you will need to buy a Visitor SIM card, which can be purchased from theTelecom Niue office which is located in the Alofi Commercial Centre.
All services are provided on a fast 4G network. However, if there is a power outage in Alofi (as happened several times during my stay), internet is lost across the entire island.
A Visitor SIM costs NZ$50, is valid for 14 days and includes 6GB of data, plus unlimited local calls, and 10 minutes of calls to Australia or New Zealand.
Costs
The menu at the popular Fana Cafe.
Most people visit Niue for 7 nights, which coincides with the flight schedule. With a 2nd weekly flight now operating, it is possible to visit for 3 nights.
The cost of a holiday on Niue isn’t cheap, with the biggest expenses being flights, accommodation, car rental and food. Everything really!
Sample Costs:
Coca Cola (1.5 litre bottle) at Swanson’s: NZ$7.50 (US$4.70)
Water (0.33 litre bottle): NZ$1.80 (US$1.13)
Can of beer at Crow’s Nest: NZ$5.00 (US$3.13)
Cafe Latte at the Crazy Uga Cafe: NZ$5 (US$3.13)
Scrambled eggsbreakfast at Fana Cafe: NZ$15 (US$9.40)
Fish and chip meal at Crow’s Nest: NZ$11 (US$6.90)
Meal at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue: NZ$30+ (US$18.80+)
Room at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue: NZ$250+ (US$156+)
Airbnb cottage (David’s Fale): NZ$160 (US$100)
Return flights to Niue from Auckland with Air New Zealand: NZ$800 return (USD$500)
Shopping
Niue sarongs for sale at Niue International Airport.
Tahiono Art Gallery
Ahi Cross, who, along with her husband, artist – Mark Cross – operate the Tahiono Art Gallery in Alofi.
As can be expected on a tiny, remote island, shopping opportunities are limited. There are a couple of shops in Alofi which sell locally produced artworks and handicrafts.
Despite its small population, the people of Niue are especially creative and talented. There are several artists living on the island, who produce magnificent works of art which make for ideal souvenirs.
The artwork of Mark Cross can be purchased at the Tahiono Art Gallery in Alofi.
One of the most prominent artists on the island is Mark Cross, a New Zealander who is married to a Niuean – the wonderful Ahi Cross (pictured above).
Mark and Ahi run the Tahiono Art Gallery which is located in the Alofi Commercial Centre.
The walls of the gallery display Mark’s paintings which depict Niuean scenes which are interpreted in his unique style.
Kauhi Krafts
The Kauhi Kraft shop is owned by Niuean artist Olga Wilson who is known for her floral artwork which is applied to a variety of materials, including textiles.
Also located in the Alofi Commercial Centre is Kauhi Kraft.
This gallery/ ice cream shop is owned and operated by Niuean artist, Olga Wilson, and her husband, Alan Wilson, who is originally from Perth, Western Australia.
Olga is known for her floral artwork which she applies to a variety of materials, including textiles. If you are staying at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, you will dine on table runners which have been designed by Olga.
The specialty at Kauhi Kraft are hand-painted tea towels, table runners, cushion covers, sarongs and more.
The shop also serves ice cream, which is also served in the form of delicious milkshakes.
Swanson Supermarket
Swanson Supermarket is the only supermarket on Niue.
The only supermarket on Niue is Swanson Supermarket, which is housed in the Swanson Commerical Centre.
Due to shipping costs, groceries on Niue are very expensive with a 1.5L bottle of Coca Cola at Swanson Supermarket costing NZ$7.50.
Offering a limited range of groceries, everything at Swanson’s is expensive due to high shipping costs. Everything arrives by container on the monthly supply ship from Auckland.
By the time all shipping costs are included, everyday items end up being priced as luxury items.
As an example, a 2L bottle of Minute Maid apple or orange juice costs NZ$13, while a 1.5L bottle of any soft drink costs NZ$7.50.
A large box of cereal for NZ$18.20! Due to shipping costs, all groceries at Swanson Supermarket are very expensive.
If you are going to be self-catering while on Niue, it’s much cheaper to carry any packaged food items from Auckland, within your luggage allowance.
The giant Uga Crab at the Swanson Commerical Complex.
It’s hard to miss the Swanson Commerical Complex, thanks to the giant Uga Crab which has been installed on the street corner, in front of the complex.
Niue Bond Store
Next door to Swanson Supermarket is the Niue Bond Store which is the one liquor shop on the island.
Naturally, this is one of the most popular shops on the island, and sells a variety of NZ wine and beer, along with international brand spirits.
The shop also serves as Niue’s only duty-free alcohol store, with flight passengers able to shop prior to their flight back to Auckland.
K-Mark
The K-mark store is the closest thing you’ll find to a real K-mart on Niue.
Also located in the Swanson Commerical Complex, K-Mark is the closest thing you’ll found on Niue to a real K-Mart store.
This veritable Aladdin’s Cave stocks all sorts of merchandise from toys, games, clothing, homewares and so much more.
Niue Visitor Information Centre
The Niue Visitor Information Centre is located in Alofi.
The Niue Visitors Information Centre in Alofi is operated by the friendly staff from Niue Tourism.
The “Tourism” license plate.
Two essential items which are available from the visitors’ centre are a map of the island plus the weekly guide which outlines the opening hours of all restaurants and cafes on the island.
Niue souvenirs for sale at the Niue Visitor’s Information Centre.
Apart from dispensing information, the visitors centre is a great place to find Niue souvenirs.
A display, at the Niue Visitors Centre in Alofi.
The visitors centre also includes informative cultural displays and a small display of artworks by local artists.
It’s worth picking up a free Niue map from Niue Tourism.
The sightseeing section lists the sights of Niue, travelling around the island, in a clock-wise direction from Alofi.
A ‘Welcome to Niue’ sign, outside Niue International Airport.
Alofi
Tomb Point
A view of the port and the northwest coast of Niue from Tomb Point.
Located across the road from the Alofi Commercial Centre, Tomb Point is a pleasant place to relax and take in the stunning views of the port and the west coast of Niue.
Views along the southwest coast of Niue from Tomb Point.
Given its close proximity to the takeaway food shops across the road, Tomb Point is an ideal place to relax with a picnic lunch while you take in the panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
A memorial stone at Tomb Point pays tribute to 150 Niuean soldiers, who departed from the port on the 13th of October 1915, to serve alongside New Zealand soldiers during WWI.
The gravestone of King Tui Toga (died 13th of June 1887), the 6th King of Niue who was also the island’s first Christian King.
Tomb Point serves as a graveyard for prominent Niueans, including two former Kings.
The first gravestone, as you enter the cemetery, belongs to King Tui Toga (died 13th of June 1887), the 6th King of Niue who was also the island’s first Christian King.
The gravestone of Fata-a-iki (died 1896), the 7th King of Niue.
Another prominent gravestone at Tomb Point is that of KingFata-a-iki(died 1896), the second Christian Niuean monarch.
One of his first acts as patu-iki in 1877 was to send a letter to the British monarch Queen Victoria, requesting that Niue be made a protectorate of the British Empire, to protect the island from other imperial powers, although his letter (and another sent in 1895) received no replies.
Niue was finally ceded to the British Empire on 21 April 1900 by the 8th King of Niue, KingTogia-Pulu-toaki.
From 1900 to 1901, Niue was ruled by the United Kingdom.
In 1901, the island was annexed by New Zealand, which administered it in the name of the British Empire.
On 26 September 1907, New Zealand attained the status of dominion, becoming the Dominion of New Zealand, and the British monarch from then on reigned over Niue in his or her capacity as monarch of New Zealand.
The current monarch of Niue is King Charles III.
Taoga Niue Museum
The very worthwhile Taoga Niue Museum tells the story of the history and culture of Niue.
Taoga Niue Museum is a national museum and cultural centre located in the new government complex in Alofi heights.
The only museum on Niue, it is located next door to the new parliament building – the Fale Fono II, and includes a small number of engaging displays which tells the story of Niue.
If you wish to gain a better understanding of the history and culture of Niue, the Taoga Niue Museum is a compulsory stop.
Access
Entry Fee: $10.00 (Kids & Students FREE)
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
Closed: Saturdays, Sunday & Public Holidays
Coastal Niue
Palaha Cave
A view of the large cavern at Palaha Cave, one of many sea caves on Niue.
A short, clearly signposted, sea track in Tuapa village leads down to this shoreline cave.
Palaha Cave is a large, multi-level, cavern which opens out onto the pounding sea. The cave is full of stalactites and stalagmites in various vivid colours, thanks to the presence of different minerals.
The view out to sea from inside the Palaha Cave.
Namukulu Boat Ramp
A view of the northwest coast of Niue from the Namukulu boat ramp.
Located in the northwest corner of Niue, the Namukulu boat ramp is one of just two such ramps on the island.
Thanks to a small channel in the reef, local fisherman are able to launch their boats from this spot!
Limu Pools
Limu pools offers magical snorkeling.
A short drive further north along the coast, a clearly marked sea track leads down to the magical and enchanting world of the Limu Pools.
This is a popular place for snorkeling, which can be done in small, protected, turquoise-coloured pools.
The well-maintained sea track which leads down to Limu Pools.
Most of the coastal sights on Niue are accessed via short (200-metre-long) sea tracks. These ‘tracks’ are well-maintained walking paths with hand-rails and grip pads to prevent slipping.
Matapa Chasm
A view of the spectacular Matapa Chasm.
Further north along the coast, the next sight of interest is the spectacular Matapa Chasm.
The chasm is accessed via a flat, 200-metre-long sea track which leads from the road, through an ancient chasm to the coast.
Matapa Chasm is a mix of cooler, fresh water – which sits on top of warmer sea water. While swimming, you can feel the cooler fresh water cooling the top of your body, while the warmer sea water warms your legs.
The chasm is a great place for swimming and snorkeling, although on incoming and outgoing tides, the movement of water from the sea can cause strong currents inside the chasm.
Talava Arches
A view of Talava Arch, a highlight of Niue.
Also, from the same car park as Matapa Chasm, a longer, 1.5 km walk leads to the awesome sight which is the Talava Arches.
The track to the arches requires sturdy walking shoes and is uneven in places. The total walking time is around 45 minutes (return journey) so a bottle of water should be carried.
A view of Talava Arch from inside a sea cave.
The track ends at yet another spectacular sea cave which offers dramatic views of the arch. In order to fully explore the cave, you will need to use a rope to descend down towards the sea.
Although not a technical climb, the ropes are there to aid balance and to prevent slipping.
The perfectly framed limestone formations at Talava Arches.
It is at Talava Arches that you can best appreciate the fact that Niue is a raised limestone reef. Everywhere, you are surrounded by cliffs of ancient seabed, and everywhere you walk, you are stepping on fragments of fossilised coral.
Mutalau
At the northern tip of Niue sits the lonely and isolated outpost of Mutalau.
In an unfortunate incident in 1863, the village was raided by a Peruvian slave-ship, and many men were kidnapped and taken to Callao (the port city near Lima, Peru).
Vanilla is an important export product for Niue.
The village has more than 12,000 vanilla vines, which is about 33 percent of Niue’s total.
Uluvehi
A view of the north coast of Niue from inside one of the caves at Uluvehi.
A good, drivable, sea track leads a short distance from the village of Mutalau to the coastal cliffs at Uluvehi.
The cliffs are lined with quiet, lonely caves which look out across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
A view of the north coast of Niue at Uluvehi.
Locals store their canoes safely, high up on the cliffs, away from the raging surf below.
Liku
A view of the east coast from a sea cave at Liku.
Continuing around the island in a clock-wise direction from Mutalau, the coastal road turns south and heads along with very lonely and mostly uninhabited east coast, passing through the sleepy settlements of Lakepa, Tautu and Liku.
A sea track leads through a cave an onto the reef at Liku.
At Liku, a hidden, drivable sea track leads to yet more dramatic coastal cliffs.
To find the sea track, you should drive across the grassy field behind Liku church and look for an opening in the forest. The unsealed road runs for about 1 km before reaching a parking area at the coast.
From here a track leads down to a cave which provides access to the reef.
Hikulagi Sculpture Park
The centerpiece of the Hikulagi Sculpture Park is the ‘Protean Habitat’.
Also, in Liku is the rather bizarre Hikulagi Sculpture Park which features sculptures which have been made from recycled junk.
The centrepiece of the park is the monumental sculpture called ‘Protean Habitat’ which epitomises the ideals behind the Hikulagi Sculpture Space. It’s a continuous, interactive, work-in-progress, which does not have any perception of a finite conclusion.
Based on a wooden substructure, Protean Habitat is an assemblage sculpture which is decorated with any sorts of objects found on the island. Everyone is encouraged to contribute to the artwork by attaching their found objects to the structure.
Sculptures at the Hikulagi Sculpture Park in Liku.
Huvalu Forest Conservation Area
A lonely road leads through the Huvalu Forest Conservation Area on Niue.
Continuing south of Liku, the coastal road enters into the uninhabited Huvalu Forest Conservation Area, which covers a large part of the southeastern corner of Niue.
Bee hives, which are owned by the folks from Niue Honey, inside the Huvalu Forest.
Hidden away inside the forest are the many beehives which are owned by Niue Honey, a company which produces what must be considered one of the purest honeys in the world.
Hakupu
The east coast village of Hakupu lies at the southern boundary of the Huvalu forest.
The east coast village of Hakupu lies at the southern boundary of the Huvalu forest. The village is known for its ebony carvings.
From the main road a sea track leads to the coast where you’ll find the Anapala Chasm.
Avatele Beach and Boat Ramp
A view of Avatele Beach.
Avatele beach is home to a small stretch of sand which makes it almost unique on this rocky island.
A channel provides access through the reef for local fishing boats.
Tamakautoga Beach
A hidden gem – tiny Tamakautoga Beach is one of the few beaches on Niue.
Signposted off the main coastal road in the village of Tamakautoga is a hidden gem – a small patch of sandy beach!
After a super short walk down the Togulu Sea Track, you’ll find a tiny cove, Tamakautoga Beach.
The beach is ideal for paddling, walking and snorkelling at low tide.
A small swimming hole under a rock overhang is a great place to relax during low tide.
The Okioki Mai cafe serves delicious food and cool drinks.
Located alongside the Tamakautoga beach carpark, the Okioki Mai cafe serves take away food and refreshingly cool drinks from a lime green shipping container.
Niue Golf Course
Located opposite the airport, the Niue Golf Course offers a 9-hole course with a club house.
The Niue Golf and Sports Club has a well-maintained, 9-hole golf course, which is across the road from Niue International Airport.
Visitors are welcome to play at any time and clubs can be hired from the Vaiolama Cafe (who also have a miniature golf course on the clifftop next to the restaurant).
Inland Niue
Two cross-island roads link Alofi to the east coast villages of Liku and Lakepa.
A couple of cross-island roads pass through the barely inhabited interior of the island, linking Alofi to the east coast settlements of Liku and Lakepa.
The 19 km drive from Alofi to Liku, and the 16 km drive from Alofi to Lakepa, passes through lush rainforests.
It is here where the few birds on Niue can be found.
There is one parrot on Niue – the Blue-crowned lorikeet which is found throughout the islands of the South Pacific.
The lorikeets are very elusive on Niue, although I did see one flash of green as I was driving across the island.
A painting of a Blue-crowned lorikeet, by artist Olga Wilson, displayed at the Kauhi Kraft shop in Alofi.
The closest I came to seeing one of these lorikeets was at the Kauhi Kraft shop in Alofi, where artist Olga Wilson has a painting of one of these elusive birds.
The barely used cross-island road between Alofi and Lakepa passes through verdant rainforest.
When you travel across the interior, it becomes clear that everyone on Niue lives on the coast. The interior is very empty and totally quiet.
The interior of Niue is used to grow Taro, a key staple on the island.
The interior of Niue features no population centres, but is home to large tracts of primary forest with the occasional clearing occupied by fields of taro or banana and papaya trees.
Scuba Diving
The highly recommended, ‘Niue Blue’, is the sole scuba diving operator on Niue.
Scuba diving on a raised limestone island, with an absence of sand, and an absence of rivers dumping ground water into the sea, ensures excellent visibility. Underwater, visibility on Niue can be almost up to 100 metres. It is crystal clear!
The crew from Niue Blue, lowering our dive boat into the water.
Added into the mix are interesting underwater formations such as caves, caverns, coral-encrusted bommies, ridges, channels and much more.
There is just one dive operator on the island – the highly recommended Niue Blue, who are located next door to the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Due to the excellent conditions, almost every day is a dive day on Niue with diving trips (for up to 5 divers) heading out each morning at around 7:30 am.
A two-tank dive, with full equipment rental, costs NZ$295. Not cheap, but highly worth it!
Due to the fact that there is no safe harbour on Niue, the dive boat is lowered into the sea using a crane which is installed at the main wharf.
Note: All photos from my scuba diving have been provided by Niue Blue.
During my stay on Niue, I did a two-tank dive which I would highly recommend.
Dive # 1
The first dive took us into ‘Dome Cave‘, a shoreline cave which is only accessible from underwater.
A sea snake, sleeping in the entrance of Dome Cave.
To access the cave, we swam through a beautiful blue opening (which is a favourite hangout for friendly and curious sea snakes), and used our torches to work our way up to the surface inside this dark cavern.
Scuba Diving at the amazing ‘Dome Cave’ with Niue Blue.
The walls of the cave are home to many large coconut crabs, while large schools of fish take refuge inside the cave entrance.
Diving inside ‘Dome Cave’ with Niue Blue.
A small crack in the roof of the cave lets a little air in, so we were able to remove our regulators and breathe in the fresh air.
The water at the surface is cool, fresh water which we could drink.
Once we re-submerged, we passed through a thermocline (which plays tricks with your vision as the water is blurry and shimmery) back into the warmer sea water which sits below the fresh water.
Being a raised limestone reef, with no sand, or fresh water runoff from the island, water visibility is excellent on Niue.
We then exited the cave, waving good bye to a sleeping sea snake, then continued our dive.
An amazing experience!
Dive # 2
Our 2nd dive took us around some spectacular underwater bommies and ridges.
Between the ridges were open areas of sea bed where we saw one large stingray feeding.
Due to Niue’s reef, the monthly supply ship, Olomana, must moor offshore, and transfer its containers, one at a time, to a small barge.
Almost everything on Niue has been bought to the island by the monthly supply ship, MV Olomana, which sails between Auckland and Niue.
During my visit, the supply ship was in town, unloading its valuable cargo. Goods are bought ashore at the shallow wharf in Alofi, which can be used only by flat-bottomed, smaller, vessels.
Containers from the MV Olomana are craned onto a smaller barge which transports them to shore.
Due to the presence of the reef, the supply ship must moor about 400 metres offshore. A small barge is used to transfer containers to and from the ship.
Because of this slow process, the supply ship must remain in port for several days, while full containers are offloaded and empty containers are loaded.
A view of the MV Olomana, which calls at Niue every month.
Shipping services to Niue are operated by the Matson Shipping Company, who provide shipping services throughout the Pacific. The Olomana sails every three weeks from Auckland to Rarotonga and Aitutaki in the Cook Islands and then Niue.
During the time the ship is in port, the main road in front of the port is lined by a high wall of shipping containers.
Accommodation
The only hotel on Niue is the very good ‘Scenic Matavai Resort Niue’ which is perched on top of a coastal cliff, south of Alofi.
Tiny Niue offers a small selection of accommodation, most of which can be viewed on the accommodation page of the Niue Tourism website.
Christmas time at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, the only hotel on the island.
While the regular online travel sites (Booking.com, Hotels.com etc.) offer few accommodation options, Airbnb offers five different cottages.
During my time on the island I stayed at David’s Fale, an Airbnb property, and at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, the only hotel on Niue.
Scenic Matavai Resort Niue
Great views of the coast of Niue from the pool area at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Part of the New Zealand owned and operated, Scenic Hotel Group, the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue enjoys a spectacular location, perched on the edge of a clifftop, overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific.
A view of the west coast from the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
The resort is located 5 km from Niue airport and 7.5 km southeast of Alofi village.
While the resort offers complimentary airport transfers, it is recommended that you hire a car during your stay on Niue.
There is no other way to explore the island other than with your own means of transport.
My spacious and comfortable ‘Superior’ room at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
The resort offers 56 rooms with balconies, with most rooms offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
The spacious rooms include an ensuite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities, minibar, LCD TV (with just 3 channels which aren’t worth watching), an in-room safe, bathrobes and slippers. Everything for the discerning traveller!
Standard rooms at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue start from NZ$250 per night.
Standard ‘Ocean View’ rooms start at NZ$250 per night, with ‘Superior rooms’ costing NZ$300 per night.
All room rates include a buffet breakfast.
At certain times of the year, a minimum booking of 7 nights must be made, which coincides with the flight schedule.
You can book rooms directly through the hotel website or through booking.com
Rooms at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue include ensuite bathrobes, slippers and bathrobes.
As for dining options – the restaurant at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue is the only full service restaurant on Niue and is the only restaurant on the island which is open seven days a week.
For more on the restaurant, please refer to the ‘Eating Out‘ section.
Scenic Matavai Apartments and Villa
Apartments at the Scenic Matavai Apartments and Villa complex are perched on top of the sea cliffs.
In addition to the main resort, the Scenic group also offer the Scenic Matavai Apartments and Villa which is located 1.7 km north of the main resort.
A walkway onto the reef, in front of Scenic Matavai Apartments and Villa.
Like the main resort, this property enjoys a spectacular cliff-top location and apartments have a very pleasant ocean outlook. There is a sea-track down to the reef which gives access to the reef at low tide.
A view of the reef from the Scenic Matavai Apartments and Villa.
David’s Fale
During my stay on Niue, I spent 4 nights at David’s Fale, a cosy Airbnb cottage.
My first 4 nights on Niue were spent in a cosy and comfortable Airbnb cottage – David’s Fale.
The living room at David’s Fale in Alofi.
The cottage included one bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a bathroom with washing machine, a living room and a kitchen which allowed me to self-cater.
The cottage is located in Alofi, amidst the swaying coconut palms, just north of the wharf.
My bedroom at David’s Fale.
The cottage, which costs about NZ$160 per night (excluding the usual Airbnb fees), must be booked for a minimum of 4-nights.
An invaluable resource on Niue is the restaurant schedule which is issued each week by Niue Tourism.
With a population of just 1,620 souls, dining options on Niue are very limited.
An invaluable resource for any visitor to Niue is the restaurant schedule which is issued each week by Niue Tourism.
This schedule lists restaurants which are open for meals on any given day. At certain times, on certain days, the only dining option might be the restaurant at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Restaurants on the island tend to close early, with some restaurants closing their kitchens by 8 pm. Opening hours are also indicated on the schedule.
Before venturing out to any restaurant, it’s best to consult the restaurant schedule!
Restaurants/ Cafes
Scenic Matavai Resort Niue
An amazing sesame-encrusted, seared tuna which I enjoyed for lunch at the Dolphin Restaurant at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
The only restaurant on Niue which is open 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner is the Dolphin Restaurant at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue.
Served for dinner at the Dolphin Restaurant, Ika Mata, a popular dish across the Pacific, consists of raw fish in coconut cream.
Main courses at the Dolphin Restaurant average NZ$30, with beer battered fish & chips costing NZ$29.
In the evenings, the restaurant provides entertainmentwhich includes coconut husking demonstrations, Uga (Coconut crab) demonstrations, music and much more.
The Dolphin restaurant is normally the liveliest and busiest place in town.
Crazy Uga Cafe & Bar
Scrambled eggs and coffee at the Crazy Uga cafe in Alofi.
My go-to place for breakfast was the popular Crazy Uga Cafe which is always buzzing with locals and tourists who enjoy great coffee, good food and sweeping views of the west coast from the cafe’s balcony.
The view of the west coast of Niue, from the balcony of the Crazy Uga Cafe.
What sets this cafe apart is that they have a proper espresso machine – something almost unique on Niue.
My morning Cafe Latte at the Crazy Uga Cafe in Alofi.
The coffee at the Crazy Uga Cafe was the best I tasted on Niue.
This excellent cafe is open most days until 2 pm.
Fana Cafe
Serving food made from local ingredients, Fana Cafe is popular with locals and tourists.
Located in the Swanson Supermarket Complex, this popular eatery serves amazing food using mostly local produce.
One of many delicious sandwiches which are served at the Fana Cafe.
I highly recommend anything which includes their signature papaya relish.
Due to its popularity, food often sells out early, so it’s best not to turn up for a late lunch. On at least two visits, I was served the last bread roll.
Vanilla Cafe
A delicious fish curry, made from local tuna, at Vanilla Cafe in Alofi.
Located in the Alofi Commercial Centre, next door to Niue Telecom, Vanilla Cafe serves very good Indian curries, which are prepared by the Indian chef.
I especially recommend the fish curry which is prepared using local, fresh fish. One of the more cosmopolitan offerings on the island!
Vanilla Cafe in Alofi serves delicious Indian curries.
Crow’s Nest
The menu at Crow’s Nest fish and chips shop in Alofi.
Located in the Alofi Commercial Centre, behind the Niue Development Bank, Crow’s Nest serve amazingly fresh fish and chips, using local fish.
The whole place closes each Saturday so that the owners can go fishing to restock the freezer. You can check out your next meal on the Facebook page of one of the owners, who also runs a fishing charter company.
Hio Cafe & Bar
The Hio Cafe & Bar serve amazing wood-fired pizzas, with the Hawaiian pizza being a popular choice in this part of the world.
Located on the northwest coast, in the village of Tuapa, the Hio Cafe & Bar serve amazing wood-fired pizzas, with the most popular being the Hawaiian pizza.
Vaiolama Cafe
Located on the clifftop in Alofi, this popular cafe serves fish and chips and excellent hamburgers, although it can sell out early!
Kai ika
Located in Alofi, this Japanese restaurant offers everything from sushi, sashimi, fish and chips and much more. Kitchen closes at 8pm!
Uncle John’s Niue Hamburgers
Available at Alofi market on Fridays, Uncle John’s ‘Niue Hamburger’ features slices of grilled papaya.
A special mention should be made for the delicious Niue hamburgers which are served by Uncle John at the Alofi market every Friday.
Unlike its Hawaiian counterpart, the Niue hamburger features slices of grilled papaya rather than pineapple.
Papaya on a hamburger? Who would have thought!
Very tasty!
Bars
The mixologists at ‘All Relativf Cocktail Bar’ serve amazing cocktails.
There are a few bars on Niue, including at the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, which is all things to all people.
Tucked away at the back of the Swanson Commercial Complex is the All Relativf Cocktail Bar whose mixologists serve amazing cocktails.
Also in the same shopping centre, the Niue Bond Store is the only liquor store on the island and serves also as the island’s one duty-free store.
The Inu Hake Brewery has the distinction of being the only brewery on Niue. Located in Alofi, this craft beer brewery uses local ingredients, such as Niue honey, vanilla and coconut to create tasty craft beers which can be sampled at the brewery on certain evenings.
Visas are required for all visitors to Niue, except for nationals of New Zealand who are Niueans or descendants of Niueans and nationals of other countries who are bona fide visitors staying 30 days or less.
Visitors must have sufficient funds for the length of their stay together with a confirmed reservation for accommodation and those not holding return or onward tickets could be refused entry.
Despite these requirements, I was never asked any questions by immigration upon arrival. I was simply stamped into the country – a process which took about one minute.
Since the only way to reach the island is on a flight from New Zealand, travellers wanting to visit Niue from outside of New Zealand must meet the border entry requirements for both New Zealand and Niue.
Diplomatic Representation
The only diplomatic missions on Niue are the New Zealand and Australian High Commission which share the same facility.
Getting There
Air New Zealand provide a twice weekly service to Niue from Auckland International Airport.
Air
Niue International Airport, which is also known as Hanan International Airport.
All flights to Niue arrive at Niue International Airport (IATA: IUE), which is also known as Hanan International Airport.
My Air New Zealand boarding pass for my flight from Auckland to Niue.
The airport is named after Ralph Hanan, who was formerly a New Zealand Minister of Island Affairs.
The airport sign, which contains a spelling mistake – the airport is named after Ralph HANAN, who was a New Zealand Minister of Island Affairs.
Located just a 5-minute drive from the main town of Alofi, the airport is only used by Air New Zealand, who fly twice per week between Auckland and Niue, a 3.5-hour flight which crosses the International Date Line.
First views of Niue, from my Air New Zealand flight.
This is one flight for which it is worth requesting a window seat as the views of Niue during landing and takeoff are breathtaking.
The terminal building at Niue International Airport.
Flights depart Auckland every Saturday and Wednesday, crossing the International Date Line, arriving on Niue the previous day.
The same flight then departs Niue on Friday and Tuesday, arriving 3.5-hours later in Auckland, on the following day.
All arriving and departing passengers to Niue are required to complete an arrival/ departure card.
On plane days, market stalls are set up alongside the airport terminal, selling everything from taro chips to hand-painted sarongs and other souvenir items.
The waiting lounge at Niue International Airport.
Did you know?
While New Zealand and Niue share the same time, they are 24 hours apart!
New Zealand and Niue are on the same time but located on either side of the International Date Line.
When it’s 12 noon in Auckland on Saturday, it’s 12 noon in Niue on Friday.
Departing Niue on my Air New Zealand flight.
Airport Transport
There is no public transport on Niue.
Arriving visitors should organise either an airport transfer with their accommodation provider or a car rental from the airport.
The Scenic Matavai Resort operate a shuttle bus to and from the airport for arriving guests.
Sea
The only way to reach Niue by sea is on one of the three cruise ships which call at the island each year – the MS Volendam, the MS Zaandam and the Seaborn Quest.
Due to the coral reef which surrounds the island, ships must moor at sea, with passengers transported ashore via tender boats.
Driving distances in Niue are short and the roads are always free of traffic.
As mentioned, there is no public transport on Niue.
If you wish to explore the island, the only option is to rent a vehicle – either a car or a motorbike. There are several well-established rental car companies with safe, well maintained vehicles for hire.
Niue boasts 64 km of (mostly) sealed road and it takes roughly 2 hours to drive around the island.
Speed limits on Niue are 40km/hour in villages and 60km/hour in open areas.
A ring road around the island’s coast is the main road, which connects all villages.
In Niue, driving is on the left-hand side of the road!
Taxi
The one taxi which did exist on Niue has ceased operation due to the driver entering retirement.
The Scenic Matavai Resort operate a shuttle bus to and from the airport for arriving guests.
Rental Car
Exploring Niue in my Kia rental car, which I hired from Niue 4×4 Rentals.
With no public transport on the island, the only sensible way to explore Niue, and maximise your time on the island, is with a rental car.
On an island of 1,620 inhabitants, you can be sure that traffic is always light. Driving is very relaxed, and most of the time I had the road to myself.
One very nice habit on the island is that all passing motorists’ wave at each other. Everyone knows everyone and tourists are always made to feel welcome.
Driving on Niue is very relaxed, with lots of scenic lookouts, little traffic and very friendly drivers.
While I was on the island, the Chinese government, as part of its ‘China Aid’ program, was busy upgrading roads and installing footpaths, and gutters in Alofi.
While most roads are sealed, some of the back roads (especially on the sparsely inhabited east coast) are heavily potholed.
The license plate on my rental car.
There are a number of car rental companies on Niue, including the following:
I used the services of Niue 4×4 Rentals which is owned by the very friendly ‘Willie’ who is also supported by his very competent daughter.
Upon arrival at Niue Airport, I was met by Willie’s daughter, who pointed out my rental car on the other side of the airport car park. The keys were left in the ignition and the car was unlocked. Never do you need to worry about theft on tiny Niue.
Rental Car Costs
Exploring Niue, in my comfortable Kia Sportage, which I rented from the wonderful Willie at Niue 4×4 Rentals.
As for charges, my very nice Kia Sportage cost NZ$60 per day. I was told I could make payment anytime during my stay on the island.
Willie’s daughter works at the Crazy Uga Cafe where I often ate breakfast. The cost of my car rental was simply added to my breakfast bill one morning with everything paid with credit card at the cafe. Easy!
At the end of my stay, I left the car, unlocked, in the airport carpark with the key in the ignition.
A very nice and relaxed rental experience!
I would highly recommend Niue 4×4 Rentals for your rental car needs.
Niue Driver’s License
My Niue Driver’s License – a great souvenir from the island and a valid photo ID.
Under Niue law, anyone driving a vehicle on the island needs to hold a valid Niue Driver’s License.
The Niue Police coat of arms is displayed inside the Niue Police Station.
You can apply for a license, from Monday to Thursday, at the one Niue Police station, which is across the road from Swanson’s supermarket.
A license costs NZ$22.50 and takes about 5 minutes to issue – including having your photo taken.
Fuel Station
The Central Services Petrol Station is the only fuel station on Niue.
The Central Services Petrol Station is the one and only fuel station on Niue. It is open Monday to Saturday, 7 am to 7 pm, and Sunday, 4 pm to 7 pm.
The fuel station also sells some basic groceries such as bread, pies and milk.
Fuel is shipped to the island on the monthly supply ship from Auckland.
At the time of my visit (December 2023), one litre of unleaded fuel cost NZ$3.50 (US$2.18).
During my week of driving on Niue, I used less than a tank of fuel.
That’s the end of my Niue Travel Guide. If you wish to leave feedback you can do so using the form below or via the contact page.
Safe Travels!
Darren
Further Reading
Following is a list of other taste2travel content from the region:
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01. This is the flag of which Australian state?
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02. Famous for its many beautiful beaches, the city of Newcastle is located in which state?
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03. Approximately, what percentage of Australians live on the coast?
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The large deserts of central Australia mean that the vast majority of the population live on the shores of this enormous country. All capital cities, except for Canberra, are located on the coast.
04. In which town would you be if you were viewing the 'Super Pit', one of the world's largest gold mines?
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The 'Super Pit' is approximately 3.5km long, 1.5km wide and 600m deep. The structure is big enough to be seen from space. The Super Pit was the biggest open gold mine in Australia until 2016, when it was surpassed by the Boddington gold mine, also in western Australia.
05. With a land area of 7,692,024 km2, where does Australia rank, worldwide, in term of country size?
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Australia is the world's sixth largest country, after Russia, Canada, China, the USA, and Brazil. While it is the smallest continental land mass, it is the world's largest island.
06. What was the nationality of Jørn Utzon, the designer of the iconic Sydney Opera House?
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07. Home to 897 souls, Flinders Island is a part of which state?
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08. Which statement is true of Australia?
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While Australia is located in the tropics, the country is 70% desert and the Australian Alps receive more snowfall than the Swiss Alps. However, there are no active volcanoes in Australia.
09. The black swan is the bird emblem of which state?
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The black swan has been used as the emblem of Western Australia since the 1830s, although there is no record of any early official confirmation. It was officially confirmed as the state bird in 1973!
10. A group of emus is known as a what?
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11. This is the flag of which Australian territory?
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12. Which is the capital of Western Australia?
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13. The ACT (Australian Capital Territory) is entirely surrounded by which state?
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14. What is the approximate length of the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world?
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Stretching for 2,300 km, over an area of approximately 344,000 square kms, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world.
15. In which state would you be if you were visiting Bruny Island ?
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16. Cape Leeuwin, the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, is located in which state?
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17. What is the name of the central bank of Australia?
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18. The outback town of Bourke is located in which state?
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19. Which is the capital of Tasmania?
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20. Finally, this is the flag of which Australian territory?
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Travel Quiz 69: Australia Travel Quiz
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I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 230 countries and territories, and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
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