Things To Do
in Kiribati
Kiribati is an island country located in the central Pacific Ocean, known for its spread-out collection of 33 atolls and reef islands, which are characterized by their abundant marine life, picturesque blue lagoons, and pristine beaches. It has a unique cultural heritage and is notable for its significant challenges related to climate change, particularly rising sea levels that threaten its low-lying islands.
The capital, South Tarawa, serves as both a political and cultural hub, capturing the essence of Kiribati's traditional and contemporary way of life amidst its environmental enigmas.
- "Mauri" - Hello
- "Aere raoi" - Goodbye
- "Ko na koaua?" - How are you?
- "Te mauri n te karere" - Thank you
- "Aito te ngaia" - I love you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic World War II sites on Tarawa. Explore the fascinating bunkers and memorials while learning about the area's rich history.
Enjoy a local lunch at a beachside restaurant where you can taste traditional Kiribatian cuisine. Spend your afternoon snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs, teeming with tropical fish.
Relax on the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky in beautiful hues. Dine at a cozy seaside café and experience local music performances.
Take a boat to some of the nearby islands, such as Abaiang and Nonouti. Experience the breathtaking views and pristine beaches that Kiribati has to offer.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on a secluded beach, surrounded by nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the island's flora and fauna, with opportunities for bird watching.
Return to Tarawa and unwind at your accommodation. Enjoy a traditional dinner and engage with locals for stories about island life.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional practices of the I-Kiribati people.
- A unique biodiversity found in its marine and terrestrial environments.
- A peaceful and laid-back lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
- Low crime rate, contributing to a safe living environment.
- Vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels potentially threatening its existence.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities and services.
- Isolated location leading to high transportation costs and limited trade opportunities.
- Challenges in economic development due to reliance on fishing and tourism.
- Limited educational resources and opportunities for higher education.
Best Activities in Kiribati
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse underwater marine life in the crystal-clear waters of Kiribati.
Enjoy deep-sea fishing or reef fishing in the abundant waters around Kiribati.
Relax on the pristine white sandy beaches and discover unique seashells and marine treasures.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kiribati with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kiribati
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views and great photo opportunities of the bird species and surrounding landscape.
Offers beautiful sunset views and photo opportunities by the sea.
Provides breathtaking views of the untouched natural beauty and pristine beaches, ideal for photography.
Food in Kiribati
Kiribati Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves with coconut cream and onion, traditionally cooked in an underground oven. Found at local gatherings and family feasts.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish, often served with breadfruit, a staple carbohydrate in Kiribati. Offered at traditional village events and local eateries near the coast.
Marinated raw fish, a common dish showcasing the freshness of the local catch. Available at traditional gatherings and coastal dining spots.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kiribati better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in South Tarawa, this bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks such as coconut cakes and fried breadfruit.
Found in Betio, these stalls offer an array of grilled seafood, taro, and other local delights, providing a vibrant street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for community leaders and willingness to participate in communal activities, such as dancing, singing, and storytelling, is highly valued in Kiribati.
Using polite language and showing respect towards elders and authority figures is important in Kiribati culture.
It is customary to give and receive gifts in Kiribati as a sign of respect and goodwill, particularly during social occasions and visits to someone's home.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kiribati with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kiribati
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Kiribati, and it is generally not expected in hotels, restaurants, or other service industries.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Kiribati, and credit card acceptance may be limited. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting the country.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kiribati.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Kiribati, as the weather is mostly dry and sunny. You can expect lower humidity, calm seas, and good visibility for diving and snorkeling.
During the wet season, Kiribati experiences higher humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. This can be a good time for bird watching as migratory birds arrive, but outdoor activities may be affected by the rain.
Kiribati at Night
Hiking in Kiribati
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A small uninhabited island near Kiribati, offering scenic views and opportunities for exploration on foot. While it's not a traditional hiking spot, its natural beauty and paths allow for light trekking.
Known for its lush vegetation and coastal trails, Makin Island provides a unique hiking experience alongside beautiful beaches and local wildlife.
The largest atoll in Kiribati features various walking paths where visitors can explore local villages, beaches, and nature.
An island that offers opportunities for walking and guided tours through its captivating landscapes and cultural sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kiribati through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Kiribati by plane.
Located in Nadi, Fiji, this is the main international airport serving the region and is a primary hub for flights to and from Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.
Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, this airport serves as a major gateway for international flights across the Pacific Ocean, including connections to Kiribati.
Located in Brisbane, Australia, this international airport is one of the main points for flights in and out of Australia, serving many international destinations.
Situated in Auckland, New Zealand, this airport is the largest and busiest in New Zealand, offering numerous international flights across the Pacific.
Located in Sydney, Australia, this is the primary international airport serving Sydney and is one of the busiest in the southern hemisphere.
Located in Suva, Fiji, this airport provides additional options for international travel, especially for flights from the Pacific Islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Kiribati, comprising the majority of the population.
A small percentage of the population, primarily consisting of expatriates and descendants of colonial settlers.
Includes individuals from neighboring Pacific island nations, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A minor demographic group, mainly consisting of immigrants from various Asian countries.
The Soul of Kiribati
Discover the essence of Kiribati through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Kiribati, played widely among both youth and adults.
Rugby is another favored sport in Kiribati, with local teams and tournaments held regularly.
Given its coastal environment, beach volleyball is a popular recreational activity and sport in Kiribati.
Swimming is a commonly practiced sport, encouraged among the youth for both fun and competition.
Basketball has gained popularity in Kiribati, attracting many players and spectators.
Netball is also played, particularly among women and girls, being a common sport in schools.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and fish are prevalent in Kiribati cuisine, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian options featuring fresh local produce, coconut, and taro.
Due to the reliance on staple crops like taro and breadfruit, gluten-free options are available at local eateries, with a focus on naturally gluten-free ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kiribati with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kiribati.