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Kiribati
Kiribati is a remote paradise of pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant marine life. Explore the Gilbert Islands, Tarawa, and enjoy the charm of a serene Pacific island getaway.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Did you know?
First to See the New Year – Kiribati is the first country to see the New Year every year due to its position on the International Date Line.
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September, 10. October, 11. November, 12. December, 01. January, 02. February, 03. March
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
50-100mm, 100-150mm
Safety
Dangerous
Continent
Oceania
Currency
Australian dollar
Languages
Gilbertese, English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Kiribati is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period features more stable weather with lower humidity and less rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the islands.
- May to October: Offers milder temperatures, clearer skies, and lower humidity. This is the most favorable time for enjoying Kiribati’s beautiful atolls and lagoons, and engaging in outdoor and water activities.
The wet season, from November to April, brings higher humidity, frequent heavy showers, and the possibility of tropical storms. While the weather can be less predictable, this period can still be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind occasional rain.
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Plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Climate Data
Peak Season (May to October)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 8 to 9 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rare, with mostly dry conditions.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour.
Intensity: Light.
Duration: Short showers.
Off-Peak Season (November to April)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 6 to 8 hours.
Rain Frequency: Frequent, with heavy tropical showers.
Rainy Hours per Day: Around 2 to 3 hours.
Intensity: Heavy.
Duration: Rain can last several hours, especially during storms.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: CRU Time Series v4.07
https://catalogue.ceda.ac.uk/uuid/5fda109ab71947b6b7724077bf7eb753
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-October (Dry Season)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food, cafes).
Activities: $5-20/day (beaches, outdoor activities).
Transportation: $5-15/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-150/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (mid-range hotels, beach resorts).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants).
Activities: $15-30/day (guided tours, water activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport).
Other Costs: $5-15/day (shopping, extra activities).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (exclusive experiences, private tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Rainy Season)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local meals, cafes).
Activities: $5-15/day (beach activities, free attractions).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-130/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (mid-range accommodations).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $10-25/day (tours, activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($130+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
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You can find accomendations that fit your trip and budget on Booking.com, Vrbo and Hotels.com
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Tarawa
- The capital city and largest urban area in Kiribati, known for its historical significance during World War II and attractions like the Japanese gun emplacements and the Bonriki Conservation Area.
2. Kiritimati (Christmas Island)
- The largest atoll in the world, known for its beautiful beaches, fishing opportunities, and unique wildlife.
3. Betio
- A major town on South Tarawa, known for its bustling markets and as a key commercial and administrative center.
4. Abaiang
- An island with cultural sites and traditional villages, offering a more authentic experience of Kiribati life.
5. Butaritari
- Known for its picturesque lagoon and traditional Kiribati culture, it provides a more secluded and tranquil setting.
Tarawa
Photo By Government of Kiribati https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:South_Tarawa_from_the_air.jpg
Did you know?
Disappearing Islands – Due to rising sea levels, Kiribati could be one of the first countries to disappear completely due to climate change.
Islands
1. Tarawa
- The capital atoll, known for its historical sites and central role in the country's administration.
2. Kiritimati (Christmas Island)
- The largest island in the Pacific, famous for its stunning beaches and fishing opportunities.
3. Butaritari
- Known for its beautiful lagoon and traditional culture.
4. Abaiang
- An island with traditional villages and cultural experiences.
5. Tabiteuea
- Offers a glimpse into traditional Kiribati life and scenic beauty.
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Find the perfect place to stay in any of these top cities and islands with Booking.com, Hotels.com and Vrbo – offering entire homes and apartments for a comfortable and private experience.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Tarawa Atoll
- Explore the largest atoll in Kiribati, featuring historical WWII sites, traditional villages, and vibrant coral reefs.
2. Banaba Island
- Visit this island known for its historical phosphate mining and unique cultural heritage, along with stunning coastal scenery.
3. Kiritimati Atoll
- Enjoy the world’s largest coral atoll with its pristine beaches, abundant marine life, and opportunities for fishing and snorkeling.
4. Makin Atoll
- Discover the beautiful lagoons, coral reefs, and traditional island culture on this remote atoll.
5. Abaiang Atoll
- Explore the traditional island lifestyle and natural beauty of this less-visited atoll, with its lagoons and coral reefs.
6. Nonouti Atoll
- Experience the tranquil and picturesque environment of this atoll, known for its traditional communities and pristine beaches.
Cultural Attractions
1. Bairiki Village
- Visit the administrative and cultural hub of Tarawa, where you can learn about local customs and traditional crafts.
2. Te Umanibong Monument
- See the monument dedicated to Kiribati’s independence and historical struggles, located in Tarawa.
3. Traditional Dance Performances
- Witness traditional Kiribati dance and music, showcasing the cultural heritage and communal spirit of the islands.
4. Kiribati National Museum
- Learn about Kiribati’s history, culture, and artifacts, including traditional navigation tools and historical relics.
5. Local Craft Markets
- Explore markets offering handmade crafts and souvenirs, reflecting the island’s unique artistic traditions.
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The best way to explore major cities and must-see attractions is by booking guided tours.* They offer convenience, local insights, and often save time when visiting popular sights.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Kiribati is made up of many islands, and domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between them. Air Kiribati operates flights between the main islands, including Tarawa, Kiritimati (Christmas Island), and the outer islands. Flights are infrequent, so it's essential to plan ahead.
2. Boats and Ferries
- Inter-island travel is often done by boat, especially for reaching the outer islands that do not have airports. Regular ferry services operate between some islands, but schedules can be unpredictable, and journeys may take several hours or days depending on the distance.
3. Taxis
- On the main island of South Tarawa, taxis are the most common way to get around locally. They are generally shared, so you may be traveling with other passengers. Fares are usually affordable.
4. Buses
- In South Tarawa, minibuses run along the main road and are a cheap way to travel between villages and key areas. However, they can be slow and crowded.
5. Walking or Cycling
- Given the small size of many islands, walking or cycling is often the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore locally. Some guesthouses or hotels offer bicycle rentals.
For inter-island travel, domestic flights and boats are essential, while taxis, buses, and walking are convenient for short distances on the main islands.
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You can find great car rental deals for your vacation on Expedia *
Did you know?
Scattered Across the Pacific – Kiribati is made up of 33 atolls spread over a massive area, larger than the size of India!
What to eat
1. Palusami
- Taro leaves baked in coconut cream, often served as a side dish.
2. Ika Mata
- Fresh fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, mixed with onions and peppers, a refreshing dish.
3. Te Kaokao
- A dish made with baked breadfruit and coconut, showcasing local ingredients.
4. Tuna
- Freshly caught tuna often prepared in various ways, including grilling or sashimi-style.
5. Kiritimati Fish
- Fish caught in the waters around Kiritimati Island, enjoyed grilled or cooked with coconut.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Bonriki International Airport (TRW)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €1,000 to €2,000.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,500 to $2,500.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,000 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: February to March and October.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: March to May and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months.
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You can find the best flight deals with Skyscanner or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Most travelers, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, do not need a visa for short visits.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens from several countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Kiribati visa at a Kiribati embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Visitor Visa: Usually valid for short stays, typically up to 30 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to several weeks, so it’s advisable to apply in advance if required.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 30 days; visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are accepted in urban areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 240V, and plug types I (three flat pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is not customary, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Digicel. They can be purchased at stores.
6. Driving Side
- In Kiribati, people drive on the left side of the road.
Souveniers
1. Handwoven Pandanus Mats & Fans
- Traditionally woven from pandanus leaves, these mats and fans are used in Kiribati’s daily life and ceremonies.
2. Shark Tooth Daggers
- A unique and historical souvenir, these daggers were once used by Kiribati warriors and are now crafted as decorative pieces.
3. Handmade Shell Jewelry
- Kiribati’s stunning shell jewelry reflects the island’s strong connection to the ocean and is a perfect keepsake from the Pacific.
Shark Tooth
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
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