Perhaps the friendliest place in the world, Norfolk Island is a tiny dot in the South Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and Australia. This island has the world's tallest pine trees and jagged cliffs overlooking the ocean.
The natives here are the descendants of the mutineers, and they speak an amalgamation of old English and Tahitian.
There is plenty to do on this island with picturesque spots for having picnics or barbeques. It's a good place for nature enthusiasts to visit for stargazing, bird watching, or indulging in fun water activities. The Australian Convict Sites, spread across multiple locations in and around Australia, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Norfolk Island happens to have 11 historic sites that housed convicts who helped build the colonies for the British.
Whether you’re there for the scenery or the history, you’re sure to have a great time on Norfolk Island. But before you leave, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance as protection against unexpected illnesses, accidents, injuries, or incidents.
Norfolk Island Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
No matter how friendly people are, you never know when you might fall sick or get injured. Travel medical insurance can help cover most of your health expenses if you run into any health issues during your trip. Remember, if you face a serious health emergency, the nearest major medical center is in Australia.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Norfolk Island?
Legally, it is not mandatory. However, whenever you’re traveling abroad—and especially to a destination as remote as Norfolk Island—buying health insurance is just common sense. Poor health leaves you vulnerable, but having travel medical insurance will help support you in your hour of need.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Norfolk Island?
A low crime rate does not eliminate the possibility of crime. Buy Norfolk Island travel medical insurance and put your mind at ease to fully enjoy your much-anticipated trip.
Things to Do for Travelers in Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island's pristine air and zero traffic signals make it a tourist haven. The absence of street lights lends an ethereal feel to the nights of this beautiful island paradise.
- Mt. Pitt: It's a great point to enjoy a panoramic view of the whole island. You can drive up to this second-highest point on Norfolk Island and watch spectacular sunrises and sunsets. This area is also the base of many gorgeous walking trails in the National Park. A short walk further leads to Mt. Bates, the highest point on the island.
- Norfolk Island National Park: This National Park has some of the best natural landscapes of the island. Choose one of the many walking trails and breathe in a lungful of fresh air. The walking trails suit every kind of tourist. Mt. Pitt and Captain Cook Lookout are parts of this National Park. Phillip Island and Nepean Island are visible from the viewpoint here, as well.
- Captain Cook's Lookout: Soaring above the Copacabana Beach, Captain Cook's Lookout is a spectacular scenic viewpoint on the NSW Central Coast. This location is a great vantage point for watching humpback whales during their migration between late May and early August. The nearby Bouddi National Park is a good place for bird watching and bushwalking.
- Emily Bay: A lagoon with a sheltered reef system, Emily Bay is home to colorful fish and corals. The pristine water of the Bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Emily Bay is in the UNESCO World Heritage listed area of Kingston.
- Nepean Island: Less than half a mile from Norfolk Island, this small islet is a haven to thriving wildlife. It used to be the home of the marbled gecko, which unfortunately stands extinct. The island was a quarry site for convicted settlers a long time ago. Today, it remains devoid of human habitation.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Norfolk Island
Take the same precautions you would take for international travel anywhere. Pack some insect repellent and adequate emergency first aid, and stay alert while on foot.
- Vaccines: Do make sure you are up to date with your vaccines. Children, especially infants, should get vaccinated for measles, if they have not done so already. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are common problems among travelers. Contaminated food and contact with body fluids of an infected individual could cause these diseases. Typhoid and yellow fever also occur here.
- Food and Drinks: It goes without saying to not consume food or drinks from unhygienic sources. Adventurous eating and tap water consumption can increase your chances of a hospital visit. In case you end up at the clinic, be careful of used syringes.
- Crime: The crime rate is low here, but that doesn't mean you can’t still be an unfortunate victim. Take all necessary precautions as you would while traveling. Having an emergency medical kit with you is highly advised.
- Bug Problem: Home to a National Park, Norfolk Island has exotic bugs, wild animals, and mosquitoes. Apply bug repellent before venturing out, and keep a source of illumination with you at night. Street lights are absent on the island, and it's pitch black at night.
- Sanitation: Sanitation is poor, and if you face health issues here, you will have to visit mainland Australia for treatment. Steer clear of wild animals, and always keep your medical kit with you at all times.
Before You Travel to Norfolk Island…
Norfolk Island is an idyllic location for a vacation, but it is an island away from civilization. Be wary and keep your wits about you, especially at night.
Double-check to make sure you have all of your required documents with you. Your passport, visa, and other essential documents are vital.