Wallis & Futuna Weather in January

January is one of the warmest months in Wallis and Futuna, falling squarely within the hot, rainy season. W

Temperatures Across Wallis and Futuna

Across both Wallis and Futuna, average daytime highs sit around 30°C (86°F), with nighttime temperatures hovering near 24°C (75°F). Annual temperature variation is minimal, so you can expect consistently warm, tropical conditions throughout the islands.

Sea Temperature in January

The ocean remains wonderfully warm in January, averaging around 29°C (84°F). These balmy waters make swimming, snorkelling and other marine activities especially enjoyable, provided you plan around occasional tropical showers and strong UV levels.

If you’re hoping to enjoy some sunshine in Wallis and Futuna in January, you can expect a mix of bright spells and tropical showers. The islands receive around 6 hours of sunshine per day on average, along with approximately 13 hours of daylight. While January sits in the hot, rainy season and cloud cover is common, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore between passing showers.

UV Levels During January

UV levels in Wallis and Futuna are extreme in January, frequently reaching 11+ on the UV index around midday. Sun protection is essential. Wear reef-safe, high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing, especially if you’re spending time at the beach or out on the lagoon.

For advice on what sunscreen to wear, see The Best Sunscreens for Wallis & Futuna + Sun Protection Tips.

Sunrise and Sunset in January

January has daylight hours lasting about 13 hours a day in Wallis and Futuna.

• Sunrise: 5:21 am at the beginning of January and 5:37 am at the end of January
• Sunset: 6:16 pm at the beginning of January and 6:19 pm at the end of January.

January marks the heart of the hot, rainy season in Wallis and Futuna and is typically one of the wettest months of the year. On average, the islands receive around 319 mm (12.6 in) of rainfall during the month, with approximately 18 days experiencing some precipitation.

Despite the frequent rain, showers are often heavy but short-lived, followed by clearer skies or light cloud cover. This pattern means there are still plenty of opportunities to explore the lagoons, villages and coastal scenery between rain spells, just be prepared for sudden downpours typical of a tropical climate.

If you need a rainy day backup for a couple of hours, check out the ideas in the 5 Things to Do in Wallis & Futuna on a Rainy Day.

January falls within the South Pacific cyclone season, which runs from November to April, making it a month with an increased risk of tropical storms in Wallis and Futuna. While the chance of a direct cyclone hit is generally low to moderate, the islands can experience periods of strong winds, intense rainfall and rough seas when systems pass nearby.

Historically, Wallis and Futuna have been affected by tropical cyclones during the wet season, sometimes resulting in flooding, coastal damage and temporary disruptions to infrastructure and transport.

If you prefer to minimise cyclone risk, consider travelling during the cooler, drier season from May to October.

However, if you plan to visit in January, it’s wise to monitor local weather updates, follow official advice and familiarise yourself with cyclone safety procedures through your accommodation or local authorities.

For those planning to travel during January, be aware of what to do if there is a cyclone alert by following our guide, Cyclone Safety in Wallis & Futuna.

Wallis and Futuna remains one of the South Pacific’s most untouched destinations, so even in January you’re unlikely to encounter crowds. As the month falls within the local school holiday period, you may notice more community gatherings and family outings at beaches and villages, adding a lively local atmosphere.

On Wallis (ʻUvea), explore the capital of Mata-Utu, home to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the royal palace, before heading to the island’s striking volcanic crater lakes such as Lake Lalolalo and Lake Lanutavake, which appear especially lush during the rainy season. The warm lagoon, averaging 29°C in January, is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and visiting the small offshore motu islets. History enthusiasts should also visit Talietumu (Kolo Nui), an ancient Tongan fort.

Over on Futuna, don’t miss the Saint-Pierre-Chanel Basilica in Poi, one of the territory’s most important religious landmarks. Adventurous travellers can hike Mt Puke for sweeping island views, while the coastal villages and forest trails reveal dramatic scenery and waterfalls flowing at their fullest during the wet season.

Be prepared for Wallis and Futuna in January by packing these few seasonal essentials:

• High-factor reef-safe sunscreen
• Light bamboo, linen or merino layers (we like the sustainable bamboo clothing of Moso Morrow)
• Light long-sleeved tops (to cover from sun and mosquitoes)
• Light pants/trousers (to cover the knees when appropriate – villages, church service, etc.)
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Swimwear
• Rash vest (we like the UV-protecting Sharkskin rashies)
• Closed walking shoes
• Flip-flops/jandals/sandals

Get more ideas on what to pack with our guide, What to Pack for Wallis & Futuna: Full Wallis & Futuna Packing List.