Kiribati isn’t polished. It’s raw, remote, and unforgettable. Scattered across the central Pacific Ocean, this island nation is made up of 33 coral atolls and reef islands that span more than 3 million square kilometers of ocean. It straddles the equator and stretches across both the International Date Line and all four hemispheres: north, south, east, and west.
Most travelers arrive via Fiji, Australia, or Hawaii, with international flights landing at Bonriki International Airport on South Tarawa, the country's main hub. It takes time to get here, but that’s part of what makes it feel like another world.
Sunlight shimmers across vast lagoons, and coconut palms lean over white coral sand. Here, life is shaped by tides and time zones. In fact, Kiribati is the first country on Earth to greet each new day. But there’s no rush. Time moves gently on these islands. Children play by the shore, fishermen mend nets in the shade, and the sound of the ocean is constant, soft, steady, and grounding.
Why Go to Kiribati?
Because it’s one of the most remote, untouched, and culturally authentic places left on the planet. Kiribati sees only a small number of tourists each year, and most of the country remains far from modern development. What you’ll find instead is community, tradition, and a deep connection to the ocean.
If you want to get far away from busy cities, crowded beaches, and the constant buzz of modern life, then Kiribati is exactly what you need. This is the kind of place where there’s no traffic, no stress, and no schedule. Just ocean, sky, and time to breathe.
There’s no packaged tourism here. No chain hotels or curated excursions. What you get is real: handmade canoes, singing in open-air churches, and the kind of warm welcomes that come not from training, but from culture.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise over a glassy lagoon, joining locals for a dance under the stars, or simply enjoying the quiet, Kiribati invites you to slow down and see what life looks like when it’s built around nature, not speed.
Must-See Spots in Kiribati
South Tarawa
The capital and busiest part of the country. Visit the Parliament building, the WWII relics at Betio, and the national museum to learn about Kiribati’s history and culture. Expect bustling markets, simple guesthouses, and warm conversations.
Abaiang Atoll
Just north of Tarawa, Abaiang offers a slower pace, beautiful lagoons, and welcoming villages. Explore mangroves, swim in calm waters, and experience true island hospitality.
Kiritimati (Christmas Island)
The world’s largest coral atoll. Famous for birdwatching, salt flats, and bonefishing. It's remote, wild, and incredibly peaceful, with wide open skies and endless sea.
Butaritari Atoll
Known for its lush vegetation, WWII history, and friendly communities. It’s one of the greener and more scenic islands, with quiet beaches and colorful traditions.
Outer Islands
Places like Tabiteuea, Nonouti, and Beru offer deep cultural immersion. Time seems to pause out here, and travel becomes more about connection than sightseeing.
What to Eat in Kiribati
Te bwabwai
A local taro dish, usually steamed or boiled and eaten with coconut cream. Dense, earthy, and traditional.
Fish with coconut sauce
Fresh-caught fish simmered in thick, rich coconut milk with hints of ginger and onion. Served with rice or breadfruit.
Toddy bread
Made from fermented coconut sap. Sweet, slightly tangy, and served during special occasions.
Raw clam or fish salad
Marinated in lime juice and coconut, similar to ceviche. Refreshing and full of island flavor.
Coconut everything
From fresh juice to sweet desserts and cooking oil, coconut is everywhere and in everything.
Essential Travel Tips for Kiribati
Best Time to Visit
Dry season: April to October — less rain and calmer seas
Wet season: November to March — more humidity and potential storms, especially on the atolls
Money & Payments
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Cards: Rarely accepted, even in the capital
Cash: Essential, especially on outer islands
Tipping: Not expected or customary
Getting Around
Inter-island travel is by boat or domestic flight, often weather-dependent
On Tarawa, minibuses and shared taxis are common
On outer islands, travel is mostly on foot, bicycle, or by small boat
Staying Safe
Kiribati is safe and peaceful
Drink bottled or boiled water
Be respectful of local customs, especially when entering villages or religious spaces
Staying Connected in Kiribati
Connectivity in Kiribati is limited. Internet is available in parts of South Tarawa, but it’s often slow and unreliable. On outer islands, access can be extremely limited or unavailable altogether.
Local SIMs exist, but they may require registration, and run out of credit quickly. Service coverage is patchy, and support options are minimal.
JetSet eSIM makes it easy.
Activate your Kiribati JetSet eSIM before you travel, and stay connected where coverage is available. Whether you're booking inter-island transport in Tarawa, checking the tides, or sending a message home from a quiet beach, JetSet eSIM gives you reliable data without the hassle.
No SIM card lines, no complicated setup. Just a simple, quiet connection, just like Kiribati itself.
