Things to do in Kiribati

There are many adventures to be had on and around the islands that make up the nation of Kiribati. In a nation with the biggest water to land ratio in the world, water is a dominant feature in the lives of the I-Kiribati, and for all visitors.

Fishing is world class – centred on Kiritimati (Christmas) Island, one of the few places in the world you can saltwater fly fish, for the mighty fighting bone fish! The deeper waters around Kiritimati and the Gilbert Islands are also great places for record breaking game fishing.

For those looking for some culture, there is plenty to see and do around the island. Culture in Kiribati is still very uncommodified – the best way to experience a relatively untouched culture is to take a domestic flight or ferry across to an outer island and meet the ever friendly local people. If you come at the right time of year you may also be able to witness local celebrations, in religious holidays such as Easter or Christmas; or national celebrations such as Kiribati Independence. If you would like to take a bit the culture home with you, there amazing handicrafts for sale, still made the traditional way.

The Gilbert group of islands host a number of World War II historical sites. Tarawa, Makin (now called Butaritari), Abemama (also the ocean island of Banaba) were invaded by the Japanese in 1941, just after they bombed Pearl Harbour. After the Japanese fortified the atolls, In 1942 and 1943 US Marines conducted a number of large scale raids to remove the Japanese presence. Today, relics of the battles and forts can be visited.

Kiribati is also host to the Phoenix group of islands – including the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA), the world’s largest marine protected area. For bird lovers, this area hosts nesting and feeding grounds for 19 species of wild sea birds. For those that like it underwater, a vast playground hosting a rich diversity of fish (509 identified species) and other marine life (mammals, sharks, invertebrates, plant life) in plentiful numbers in windward, leeward and lagoon habitats.

If you like it on top of the water, there is amazing surf breaks off Fanning island.

We also have a number of tours and other outdoor activities – if your in Kiribati on business or just wanting to explore, there is a range of day and weekend package tours available. Why not let others organise the schedule, and let a local show you around!