You are currently viewing Top Tourist Destinations in Kiribati & Things To Do

Top Tourist Destinations in Kiribati & Things To Do

  • Post category:Australia
  • Post last modified:April 17, 2023

Discover the Hidden Gems of Kiribati: A Guide to the Top Tourist Destinations in Kiribati

Kiribati Trip

The Republic of Kiribati is made up of a group of islands that are found in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It consists of 33 coral atolls and reef islands spread over 3.5 million square kilometers. Despite its small size, Kiribati boasts a rich and diverse culture and some of the world’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. If planning a trip to Kiribati, check out the best tourist places. This blog post will explore some of Kiribati’s top destinations and the things you can do there. Whether you Are interested in culture, history, natural beauty, or adventure, there are destinations in Kiribati for every type of traveler.

Beautiful Tourist Attractions in Kiribati

Tarawa: One of the Best Places to Visit in Kiribati

Tarawa is the capital of Kiribati, located on the main island of the Gilbert Islands chain. It is home to about half of Kiribati’s population and serves as the center of the country’s government, economy, and culture. Despite its small size, Tarawa offers plenty of things to do. There are several museums and cultural centers showcasing Kiribati’s history, traditions, and markets where you can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Tarawa also boasts some of the best beaches in Kiribati, perfect for swimming, Snorkeling, and sunbathing. The city is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Kiribati for tourists.

Things to Do in Tarawa(Destinations in Kiribati)

1. Visit the Kiribati National Museum, displaying a range of artifacts and exhibits on Kiribati’s history and culture.

2. Explore the Bairiki National Stadium, home to the Kiribati national football team and host to various sporting events and concerts.

3. Visit the Tebunginako Aba, a traditional Kiribati village preserved for visitors to learn about the Gilbertese way of life.

4. Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the Betio Market, where you can find everything from woven baskets and traditional clothing to local produce and seafood.

Kiribati Culture(Destinations in Kiribati)

Kiribati’s culture is unique and diverse, a result of the country’s history of migration and settlement.

Traditional Villages and Customs

Many of Kiribati’s outer islands host small villages that maintain traditional customs and lifestyles. These villages often sit on stilts over the lagoon, connected by causeways used for transportation during high tide. Visitors to these villages can learn about Kiribati’s traditional culture and lifestyle, including fishing, farming, and daily life. These are the Destinations in Kiribati

Kiribati practices many traditional customs and rituals, including the te kainite, a greeting in which people press their noses together to show respect and friendship, and the bwai, a traditional dance performed at ceremonies and festivals. The te wannabe is a communal meeting place where important decisions are made.

Dance, Music, and Handicrafts

Kiribati boasts a rich tradition of dance and music, often used to celebrate important events and ceremonies. Traditional dance performances feature intricate footwork and hand gestures, accompanied by music played on instruments like the bamboo flute and coconut shell drum.

Handicrafts are essential to Kiribati culture, with skilled artisans creating beautiful and unique items using traditional techniques. These include woven baskets, mats, hats made from pandanus leaves, wooden carvings, and other decorative items.

Beach Vacations In Kiribati(Destinations in Kiribati)

Tourist destinations in Kiribati to explore

Kiribati boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and palm treesDestinations in Kiribati. These beaches make for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, with plenty of activities like swimming, Snorkeling, and sunbathing to keep you busy.

The Best Beaches in Kiribati(Destinations in Kiribati)

Tarawa’s beaches are some of the best in Kiribati, perfect for swimming and Snorkeling. The waters are crystal clear and turquoise, with plenty of coral reefs and marine life to explore. Some top beaches in Tarawa include Betio Beach, Bikenibeu Beach, and Eita Beach.

Kiribati’s outer islands offer even more remote and unspoiled beaches, perfect for a peaceful and secluded vacation. Some top beaches on the outer islands include Marakei Beach, Abaiang Beach, and Nonouti Beach.

Top Things To Do in Kiribati

Snorkeling and Diving

Kiribati is home to various marine life, offering many opportunities for Snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs surrounding Kiribati host a range of fish, coral, and other marine life ready for exploration. Several dive operators in Kiribati offer guided tours and equipment rentals, allowing you to easily explore Kiribati’s underwater world.

Birdwatching(Phoenix Islands)

Kiribati is home to a wide range of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The islands of Kiribati host many migratory birds and several endemic species found nowhere else in the world.

The Diversity of Kiribati’s Birdlife

Kiribati is home to over 100 species, including seabirds, shorebirds, and land birds. Some common species in Kiribati include the red-footed booby, the great frigatebird, and the white-tailed tropicbird. Kiribati has several endemic bird species, such as the Kiribati fruit dove and Gilbert’s rail.

Top Birdwatching Spots

Some top birdwatching spots in Kiribati include the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, home to a range of seabirds and shorebirds, and Kiritimati Island, home to many migratory species.

Kiribati’s main islands also host several bird sanctuaries, like the Bonriki Lagoon Sanctuary and the Tarawa Lagoon Sanctuary, home to rare and endangered bird species.

World War II History

Kiribati played a significant role in World War II, with several historical sites and landmarks commemorating this period. The most well-known is the Battle of Tarawa, a significant battle fought in 1943 between the United States and Japan.

The Battle of Tarawa

The Battle of Tarawa took place on Tarawa Island in November 1943, fought between the United States and Japan. It was a crucial battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II and resulted in a decisive victory for the United States after three days of fighting.

War Memorials and Museums

Kiribati hosts several war memorials and museums commemorating the Battle of Tarawa and other events of World War II. These include the Tarawa War Memorial honoring soldiers who died in the battle and the Betio Military Museum displaying a range of artifacts and exhibits related to the war.

Coconut Palms and Atoll Lagoons(Destinations in Kiribati)

Coconut Palms and Atoll Lagoons

Kiribati’s natural landscape, characterized by coconut palms, atoll lagoons, and crystal clear waters, is one of its most striking features. These elements make Kiribati a perfect destination for eco-tourism, with many opportunities to explore and appreciate the islands’ natural beauty.

The Natural Beauty of Kiribati(Phoenix Islands)

Kiribati boasts some of the most beautiful And unspoiled landscapes in the world. Its islands are covered in coconut palms and surrounded by atoll lagoons, home to a wide range of marine life. The waters around Kiribati are crystal clear and turquoise, perfect for swimming and Snorkeling.

Eco-tourism Opportunities(Destinations in Kiribati)

Kiribati is an excellent destination for eco-tourism, offering many opportunities to explore and appreciate the islands’ natural beauty. Several tour operators in Kiribati offer guided tours of the islands and activities like birdwatching, Snorkeling, and hiking. Kiribati also has several eco-lodges that offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to experience the islands.

Other Attractions in Kiribati(Destinations in Kiribati)

In addition to its cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Kiribati has many other things to do and see. A few of the top attractions include:

Fishing and Boating(Destinations in Kiribati)

Kiribati is home to a wide variety of fish and is a popular destination for fishing and boating. You can hire a tour operator for guided fishing and boating trips or rent your boat or kayak to explore Kiribati’s waters.

Hiking and Trekking

Kiribati has numerous hiking and trekking trails offering stunning views of the islands and waters. These trails range from easy and scenic to challenging and strenuous, suitable for all fitness levels. Some top trails in Kiribati include the Mount Kiribati Trail on Kiritimati Island and the Bikenibeu and Eita trails on Tarawa.

Sports and Adventure Activities

Kiribati is an excellent destination for sports and adventure enthusiasts, with many activities to keep you busy. These include water sports like surfing and windsurfing and land-based activities like golf and tennis. Kiribati has several sports clubs and facilities offering organized sports and fitness programs.

Accommodation and Transportation(Destinations in Kiribati)

You’ll need to consider your accommodation and transportation options when planning your trip to Kiribati.

The following are some things that should be kept in mind:

Where to Stay in Kiribati

Kiribati offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, eco-lodges, and camping sites. Some top places to stay in Kiribati include the Pacific Resort Kiribati, the Kiribati Village Hotel, and the Tarawa Beach Bungalows.

Getting Around Kiribati(Destinations in Kiribati)

Kiribati is a small country and easy to get around. The primary mode of transportation is the bus, running regular routes around Tarawa and the outer islands. Kiribati also has taxis and rental cars, and many outer islands can be reached by boat or plane.

Conclusion

Kiribati is a unique and unforgettable destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Kiribati has something to offer if you’re interested in culture, history, or natural beauty. The best tourist places in Kiribati include Tarawa, the capital of Kiribati, and the outer islands, home to traditional villages, beautiful beaches, and rich birdlife. With its crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and coconut palms, Kiribati is a paradise for beach lovers and an excellent destination for eco-tourism. If you’re planning a trip to Kiribati, include some of these top tourist destinations in Your itinerary.

There are many other things to see and do in Kiribati, so be sure to leave plenty of time to explore and experience this beautiful and diverse country. Whether traveling solo, with a group, or with your family, Kiribati has something for everyone. Remember to bring your camera and capture Kiribati’s stunning landscapes and culture, and make sure to try some of the delicious local cuisines while you’re there. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Kiribati is a truly unique and unforgettable destination.