UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Kiribati's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, eco-tours, and experiences across Kiribati.
Phoenix Islands Protected Area
Discover the world's largest marine protected area with pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Ideal for diving expeditions, offering untouched underwater ecosystems and rare species sightings.
Tarawa Atoll Historic Sites
Explore WWII remnants and traditional maneaba meeting houses in the capital atoll.
A blend of colonial history and I-Kiribati culture with guided cultural tours.
Christmas Island Bird Sanctuaries
Visit lagoons and forests home to migratory birds and endemic species.
Protected areas perfect for birdwatching and eco-education programs.
Banaba Phosphate Legacy Sites
Uncover mining history and restored landscapes on this unique raised atoll.
Combining industrial heritage with emerging eco-tourism initiatives.
Abaiang Cultural Heritage
Experience traditional villages and ancient artifacts on this northern atoll.
Less visited, providing authentic insights into Kiribati's pre-colonial past.
Tabiteuea Atoll Traditions
Delve into southern island customs with stone fish traps and oral history sites.
Fascinating for cultural immersion and sustainable fishing heritage.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Phoenix Islands Reefs
Dive into vibrant coral gardens teeming with sharks and manta rays, ideal for advanced snorkelers.
Remote paradise for multi-day liveaboard trips with unparalleled biodiversity.
Kiritimati White Sand Beaches
Relax on endless shores with turquoise lagoons and palm-fringed coastlines.
Family-friendly spots for shell collecting and sunset picnics in the Line Islands.
Christmas Island Lagoons
Explore vast inland seas by kayak, spotting sea turtles and bonefish.
Serene haven for fishing enthusiasts and nature photographers alike.
Nonouti Atoll Mangroves
Wander coastal forests and tidal channels, perfect for easy eco-hikes and bird spotting.
This Gilbert Island offers a quick nature escape with protected wetlands.
Butaritari Lagoon Waters
Paddle through calm inner lagoons with stunning sandbars and marine nurseries.
Hidden gem for scenic boat tours and island-hopping adventures.
Remote Atoll Turtle Nesting Sites
Observe green sea turtles on secluded beaches with guided night watches.
Conservation-focused tours connecting to Kiribati's marine heritage and biodiversity.
Kiribati by Region
🏝️ Gilbert Islands (Central)
- Best For: Cultural immersion, urban vibes, and accessible atolls with traditional villages like Tarawa.
- Key Destinations: Tarawa, Abaiang, and Butaritari for historic sites and vibrant community life.
- Activities: Lagoon snorkeling, cultural dances, market visits, and cycling along causeways.
- Best Time: Dry season (May-Nov) for calm seas and events, with warm 25-30°C weather.
- Getting There: Well-connected by domestic flights from Tarawa, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🌊 Phoenix Islands (East)
- Best For: Pristine marine adventures and remote eco-tourism as a UNESCO hotspot.
- Key Destinations: Kanton and Nikumaroro for diving and uninhabited atoll exploration.
- Activities: Scuba expeditions, wildlife spotting, research vessel tours, and coral reef surveys.
- Best Time: Year-round, but trade winds (June-Oct) for optimal diving conditions and fewer rains.
- Getting There: Tarawa Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🏜️ Line Islands (South)
- Best For: Vast lagoons and birdwatching, featuring the expansive Kiritimati atoll.
- Key Destinations: Kiritimati (Christmas Island), Tabuaeran, and Teraina for nature and fishing.
- Activities: Fly-fishing, beachcombing, bird sanctuaries, and salt flat tours in arid landscapes.
- Best Time: Wet season (Dec-Apr) for migratory birds and summer for lagoons (25-32°C).
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote areas and villages.
🌋 Banaba (West)
- Best For: Unique geological features and mining history with a raised coral island vibe.
- Key Destinations: Banaba for plateau hikes and restored ecosystems.
- Activities: Guided heritage walks, cave explorations, and community interactions.
- Best Time: Dry months (May-Nov) for hiking, with mild 26-29°C and low humidity.
- Getting There: Boat or charter flights from Tarawa, with limited access for authentic experiences.
Sample Kiribati Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Kiribati Highlights
Arrive in Tarawa, explore WWII sites, visit the National Museum for cultural insights, sample local seafood, and relax on lagoon beaches.
Ferry to Abaiang for village tours and snorkeling, then head to Butaritari for traditional crafts and lagoon kayaking.
Fly to Kiritimati for lagoon fishing and birdwatching, with a day trip to inland seas and eco-lodges.
Final day in Tarawa for market shopping, cultural performances, and departure, ensuring time for island cuisine tastings.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Tarawa city tour covering historic causeways, maneaba visits, museum exploration, and local food markets.
Abaiang for cultural sites including village stays and mangrove hikes, then Nonouti for reef snorkeling and traditional dances.
Kiritimati for beach relaxation and fishing charters, then explore nearby atolls for salt flat tours.
Return to Tarawa for Phoenix Islands briefing, eco-tours, and preparation for marine adventures with local guides.
Boat to Banaba for heritage sites and plateau walks, before returning to Tarawa for final lagoon relaxation.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Kiribati
Comprehensive Tarawa exploration including museums, food tours, WWII relic walks, and community interactions.
Abaiang for villages and crafts, Butaritari for lagoons and history, Nonouti for mangroves and snorkeling.
Kiritimati lagoon kayaking, birdwatching experiences, and fishing in vast inland seas.
Phoenix Islands day trips for reefs, followed by Banaba for mining heritage and cave explorations.
Tabiteuea for southern customs and stone traps, final Tarawa experiences with last-minute shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Scuba Diving Expeditions
Dive into Phoenix Islands' reefs for encounters with sharks and pristine corals.
Available year-round with liveaboard options offering advanced PADI courses.
Bonefish Fly-Fishing
Cast lines in Kiritimati lagoons targeting elusive bonefish with expert guides.
Learn sustainable techniques from local fishers in world-class flats fishing.
Cultural Dance Workshops
Join I-Kiribati performances and learn traditional dances in Tarawa villages.
Immerse in oral histories and rhythmic te katei with community elders.
Lagoon Boat Tours
Navigate Tarawa's inner lagoons spotting turtles and visiting sandbars with rentals widely available.
Popular routes include atoll circuits and sunset cruises with calm waters.
Birdwatching Safaris
Spot migratory species at Kiritimati sanctuaries and remote atoll forests.
Guided tours highlighting frigatebirds and endemic rails with binoculars provided.
Snorkel & Kayak Adventures
Explore Abaiang reefs and mangroves by kayak for underwater and coastal views.
Many sites offer gear rentals and guided paddles for immersive eco-experiences.