You might have not even heard about Kiribati, the island nation situated in the Pacific Ocean, until now! It is, actually, one of the world’s least visited island nations. However, experts have predicted that the island won’t be able to survive, as the sea level is rising due to climatic changes. Now that the end is near, Kiribati has become a hot travel destination for all the travellers. Keeping this in mind, we present the best places to visit in Kiribati.
1. Tarawa
Tarawa, the capital city of Kiribati, is known for the Battle of Tarawa, during the World War II. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, it consists of white sand beaches and its abounding marine life. Though heavily populated, you will find its beaches untouched and clean, making it the perfect place to get a tan or have some wine with your better half. This magnificent city is full of vegetation including breadfruit, papaya, banana and coconut trees.
How to Reach: You can take a flight from New Delhi to Tarawa.
Where to Stay: Lagoon Breeze Lodge, The George Hotel, Tad’s Guesthouse
Places to Visit: Ambo Island, Sacred Heart Cathedral, Abokoro
Places to Eat: Japanese Curry House, Taotin Restaurant, Chatterbox Café
2. Maiana
Maiana is the perfect place to explore the Kiribati culture and lifestyle. Full of open air museums, you can also indulge in water sports, such as swimming, snorkelling, free diving and surfing at the beaches. And what can I say about the beaches! Spotless with crystal clear water, you can spend some romantic time with your partner or just laze around, exploring the vegetation. Apart from the beaches, you can visit its temples as well and capture its beauty in your camera.
How to Reach: Take a flight from Tarawa to Maiana
Where to Stay: There are no hotels in Maiana so you should travel back to Tarawa and take accommodation there.
Places to Visit: Tumon Beach, Encore Theatre, Fish Eye Marine Park
Places to Eat: Jamaican Grill Tumon, Soi, Table 35
3. Abaiang
A photographer’s dreamland, Abaiang is not only famous for its magnificent scenic beauty, but also its alluring blue lagoon. The land of historical landmarks, it is the first place in Kiribati to have a church. All tourists are welcomed with open arms in Abaiang, showering them with their traditional welcome. You can rent motorbikes or even trucks to take a round of the beach. Visiting the historical and cultural sites is a must for everyone here. You can even opt for a boat ride at the beach in this remote island.
How to Reach: You can use a ferry service from South Tarawa to reach Abaiang
Where to Stay: Otintaaie Hotel, Teirio Beach Resort, Ouba Islet Resort
Places to Visit: Taburao village, Beiamatekaai, Tekarano village
Places to Eat: You will be served food at the villages itself or at the hotel where you stay.
4. Marakei
Marakei is full of natural and cultural beauty, with a deep blue lagoon in the middle of it. The people of Marakei live a simple life without many amenities that you find in big, developed cities. Closer to the natural environment, you can just sit at a beach, absorbing in, the beauty surrounding you and you will find yourself unwinding and relaxing to the core.
How to Reach: You can take a ferry service from Abaiang to Marakei
Where to Stay: Marakei Island Council Guest House
Places to Visit: Nei Reel, Temotu, Buota
Places to Eat: You can have your meals at the villages or eat at the hotel
5. Abemama
If you are a history buff then Abemama is the right place for you, as you can find physical evidences of the American and Japanese War during the World War II. It is a famous weekend getaway destination for the people of Tarawa and fishing is quite common there. The people are very friendly in Abemama so you can indulge with them in dancing, local weaving and experiencing their lifestyle.
How to Reach: Reach this remote island by air from Marakei
Where to Stay: There are no hotels in Abemama so travel back to Marakei and stay the night there
Places to Visit: Beaches, historical places, villages
Places to Eat: Have your meals at the villages, prepared by the locals
I’m sure after getting to know about the history and culture of Kiribati, you would want to check this place out, at least once. Don’t wait guys and make the best of the memories here.
