Kiribati Travel Guide

Kiribati is one of those tropical islands paradises ion the Pacific. It consists of three island groups. They are, from west to east the Gilberts Group (including Banaba island and known prior to western contact as Tungaru), the Phoenix Group and the Line Islands Group.

Kiribati has wild life sanctuaries on Kiritimati Island and on most of the southern Line Islands. Extensive populations of birdlife are found on Kiritimati.

Recent history is very apparent on some islands of Kiribati. The islands’ role in World War 11 is evident in the battle of Tarawa, during which thousands of American & Japanese lives were lost.The islet of Betio, where the above battle took place, offers a wealth of war history and many rilics. 

For an active holiday there are plenty of opportunities. There is a diving club in Betio and there is a diving resort in North Dakota. Bottle and weight belts are supplied, but divers should bring their own regulators, masks and fins. Advance booking is essential because the amount of rental equipment is limited. To privent coral cuts sandshoes should be worn when walking on the reef. A favourite swimming area in Tarawa is on both sides of the Dai Nippon Causeway around the area closer to the channel or off the small islets of North Tarawa. Your hotel will advise you how to access local swimming spots. There is a 36 Norman Cross trimaran with sail and auxiliary power available for charter by the day or for longer periods. It is fully equipped with all safety equipment and has a professional skipper. Its day capacity is up to 17 persons and overnight is eight. Advance booking is essential at Fax: (686) 28539. Facilities for the following holiday sports in Kiribati are availble: soccer, squash, tennis, fishing and other water sports.