Pitcairn Island

Things to Do in Pitcairn Island

Step ashore the world's most remote inhabited volcanic outpost.

  • CapitalAdamstown
  • CurrencyNew Zealand Dollar (NZD)
  • LanguagePitcairnese, English
  • Time zoneUTC-8
  • EmergencyVHF Channel 16

Why visit Pitcairn Island?

Pitcairn Island, a tiny volcanic speck in the vast southern Pacific Ocean, remains one of the world's most isolated inhabited territories. Famous as the refuge of the HMS Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions in 1790, this British Overseas Territory is home to fewer than fifty residents, most of whom are direct descendants of those historic figures. Visiting Pitcairn is not a casual vacation; it is a true expedition requiring meticulous planning, a spirit of adventure, and a willingness to disconnect entirely from modern mass tourism.

There is no airstrip on Pitcairn Island. Access is strictly by sea, primarily via the dedicated passenger and supply vessel, the Silver Supporter, which sails from Mangareva in French Polynesia. Visitors step ashore at Bounty Bay via longboats, immediately entering a tight-knit community centered around the single settlement of Adamstown. Here, life moves to the rhythm of the ocean swells, the arrival of supply ships, and the shared duties of the islanders.

Beyond its human history, the Pitcairn archipelago offers pristine, untouched natural environments. The main island features dramatic volcanic cliffs, fertile valleys, and a marine reserve that stands as one of the largest fully protected marine areas on Earth. For the rare traveler who makes the journey, Pitcairn offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience life at the absolute edge of the map.

Bounty Bay Landing

Christian's Cave

St. Paul's Pool

The Pitcairn Island Museum

Pitcairn Marine Reserve

Pitcairn Island Cemetery

Popular regions

Pitcairn Island

Pitcairn Island

Henderson Island

Henderson Island

Oeno Island

Oeno Island

Ducie Island

Ducie Island

When to visit Pitcairn Island

Based on average conditions in Pitcairn Island.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature24°25°25°24°22°21°20°20°20°21°22°23°
Rain12d10d11d12d13d14d14d13d12d11d11d12d
CrowdsMedMedLowLowLowLowLowLowLowMedMedHigh
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Pitcairn Island

The Supply Ship Route

12 to 14 Days

The Expedition Cruise Stop

1 to 2 Days

The Resident Homestay

4 to 11 Days

The Marine Specialist

By special charter only

Getting around Pitcairn Island

The Silver Supporter

Quad Bikes (ATVs)

On Foot

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Essential homestay

    150-200 NZD per day

  • Private chalet

    250-350 NZD per day

  • Transit Costs (Essential)

    5,000-6,500 NZD round-trip

Food & drinks

  • Pitcairn Pure Honey (highly sought export)15 NZD per jar
  • Fresh caught local Wahoo or tuna dinner35 NZD
  • Home-baked bread and local fruit preserves10 NZD
  • Imported New Zealand pantry items (Co-op Store)12 NZD

Practical

  • Entry Permissions

  • Medical Evacuation Insurance

  • Connectivity Limits

  • Getting Ashore

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Pitcairn Island

How do you travel to Pitcairn Island? +

There is no airport. You must fly to Tahiti, catch a domestic flight to Mangareva, and then board the scheduled supply ship, the Silver Supporter, for a 32-hour ocean voyage.

How many days should I spend on Pitcairn Island? +

Visits are dictated by the supply ship schedule, typically allowing for either a 4-day or 11-day stay on the island before the return voyage.

What is the best time of year to visit? +

The dry, cooler months from May to October offer the most comfortable weather for hiking and lower chances of heavy rain disrupting the clay roads.

Is it safe to swim on Pitcairn Island? +

The open ocean currents are incredibly strong and hazardous. Swimming is restricted to safe zones like the natural St. Paul's Pool.

What currency is used on Pitcairn? +

The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are generally not accepted, so you must bring physical cash.

Are there hotels on Pitcairn Island? +

There are no hotels. Accommodation is arranged through local homestays or private chalets booked directly via the Pitcairn Island Tourism website.

Can I visit Henderson or Oeno Islands? +

These outer islands are uninhabited and highly protected. Access requires special government permits and charter vessels, which are difficult to secure.