Kiribati Islands: where they are, when to go and what to see

There are places in the world unknown to most people, but which offer riches from a natural point of view. These include the Kiribati Islands, a place of exceptional wonders. In recent times, these islands have been taken by storm by tourists of all kinds, who come to relax and enjoy an unforgettable holiday. Indeed, travellers to the Kiribati Islands can be sure of visiting enchanting destinations and places that remain crystallised in their hearts.
Here, then, is where they are, when to go and what to see.

Travel information: useful info

• Inhabitants: 110,136

• Capital: South Tarawa

• Languages: English, Gilbertese

• Local currency: Australian Dollar (€1.00=1.60 AUD)

• Climate: tropical, medium-high temperatures

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever

• Entry requirements: Passport, return ticket.

• Distance from Italy: 14,118 km (15-20 hours flight time)

Where to find us

The Kiribati Islands are located to the east of Australia and New Zealand. Geographically, these islands are part of the oceanic continent. Politically, on the other hand, the set of islands represent an independent presidential republic.

How to get there

• FromMilan or Rome: there are no direct flights from Italy to the Kiribati Islands. To get to these territories, the best route to take is via Australia. It is therefore necessary to take a flight from Rome or Milan to Brisbane, with a stopover in Hong Kong, perhaps with the Cathay Pacific company. Once in Brisbane it is then necessary to take a flight operated by Fiji Airways or Solomon Air to Bonriki Airport in South Tarawa. Flight duration, including stopovers, can exceed 20 hours.
  Flights fromRome to Tarawa from €2,659.00 - Flights from Milan to Tarawa from €2,768.00

• Frommajor European capitals: it is recommended to start from London. From Heathrow airport, it is then necessary to take a flight with the Emirates company and make a stopover in Dubai. From there it is then possible to take a flight with a stopover in Australia, specifically Sydney, which then terminates at Bonriki Airport.

When to go? Info on climate and best time

• Climate: the type of climate in the Kiribati Islands is tropical. Temperatures are generally very high and average 29 degrees. In a calendar year, precipitation reaches 226 days / 1,940 mm. The sea has a high temperature, with an average of 28 degrees, which allows for long bathing sessions.

• Best period: May to November. Temperatures are high and during this time there is less precipitation than usual.

• Period to avoid: December to April. This period is, on the whole, pleasant, but there is a high probability of continuous heavy rain.

• Tips: the Kiribati Islands are a wonderful seaside destination. Therefore, it is necessary to pack everything you need for swimming in total relaxation. In addition, because of the strong sun and high temperatures, it is advisable to always be hydrated and have your skin protected with appropriate sun creams and moisturising lotions. Comfortable, light clothing is also recommended.

Which island to go to?

The Kiribati Islands consist of several archipelagos. In detail, there are three main archipelagos, the Gilbert Islands, the Equatorial Sporades and the Phoenix Islands. In these three archipelagos, the most important islands where to stay are:

1. Tarawa: the main atoll in terms of connections and importance of the Kiribati Islands. On Tarawa is the capital of the republic, namely South Tarawa. Also on this island is Bonriki Airport, one of the main methods of connection with the outside world. Tarawa belongs to the Gilbert Islands.

2. Christmas Island: perhaps one of the best known destinations in the Kiribati Islands. Certainly, Christmas Island is a popular tourist destination. For this reason, tourist services are the order of the day. The climate is optimal and anyone who visits the island remains extremely satisfied.

3. Nonouti: an island that contains numerous services for inhabitants and tourists. It is no coincidence that this territory is home to the town of Deras, the second most populous town in the whole of Kiribati. This island is part of the Gilbert Islands archipelago.

5 things to see: beaches and places of interest

1. South Tarawa: the capital is definitely a place to visit. In this city centre, you can see the difference between the islanders and the people of the West, comparing the relaxed routine of the locals.

2. Banaba: a remote Kiribati island belonging to the Gilbert Islands archipelago. Excursions can be organised to visit the island's incredible beauty and be amazed.

3. Ambo Island: white beaches and extremely soft sand. Ambo Island, one of the atolls surrounding the large island of Tarawa, is definitely a must-see for those who love the sea.

4. Betio: a small island located in the northern part of the large island of Tarawa. Here you can admire a lagoon where there are tanks and equipment used by the Japanese during World War II.

5. Christmas Island: the previously mentioned island is ideal for swimming in pristine waters and admiring the pure, unspoilt wilderness.

How much does a holiday in Kiribati cost? Prices, offers and tips

As a far-flung holiday destination, a holiday in the Kiribati Islands is extremely expensive. Just for the flights alone you have to spend around €2,000 per person. If you also have to combine this with a resort for accommodation, which is a wise choice, then you can end up spending a total of €3,000 per person. For a couple, therefore, a flight + accommodation package would be worth a total of €6,000. It has to be said that life on the various islands is not very expensive. However, if you want to visit the most remote corners of Kiribati and see all the small atolls at least once, you need to have a high financial budget.

• Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €47.00 per room

• Low cost flights: from €2,659.00 - look at the offers

• Flight + hotel packages: A/R flight + 15 nights/14 days from €6,023.00 per person - look at the offers