Where is Kiribati Located?

Where is Kiribati located on the map? Kiribati is an independent nation located in Micronesia. Check out the following images to see location of Kiribati on maps.

On this map of Kiribati you can see the location of the many small islands in the Pacific.

Location Information of Kiribati

Kiribati is a small island nation located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 33 coral atolls and islands scattered over an expansive area, straddling the equator and the International Date Line. The country’s geographical location places it in a region of the Pacific known for its unique environmental and cultural characteristics. Kiribati is one of the most remote countries in the world, known for its fragile ecosystems and rich marine biodiversity.

Latitude and Longitude

Kiribati is spread across a vast area between approximately 1° N and 5° S latitude and 157° W and 173° E longitude. The nation is composed of islands and atolls that are located both on the eastern and western sides of the International Date Line. Kiribati is thus positioned uniquely to span both the eastern and western hemispheres, with some of its islands located just west of the Date Line, while others are to the east.

The capital city, Tarawa, is situated in the central part of the country, while the nation’s other islands are scattered in different locations across the Pacific Ocean.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital of Kiribati is Tarawa, located on an atoll in the central Pacific. While Tarawa is the most populous and developed part of Kiribati, other islands in the nation also have significance in terms of population and cultural importance.

Tarawa (Capital City)

Tarawa is the most populous and urbanized area in Kiribati, home to around 60,000 people, approximately half of the nation’s total population. The atoll consists of two main islands—South Tarawa and North Tarawa—with South Tarawa being the political, administrative, and economic center. The city is the site of Kiribati’s main port, government offices, and commercial activities. South Tarawa is also the location of Bairiki, the seat of the country’s government.

South Tarawa has the most infrastructure development in Kiribati, including roads, hospitals, schools, and markets, but still faces challenges such as overcrowding and limited resources. The population density on South Tarawa is relatively high compared to other parts of Kiribati, creating pressures on local services, water, and sanitation.

Other Major Islands

While Tarawa dominates in terms of population and development, Kiribati has several other islands and atolls that play important roles:

• Christmas Island (Kiritimati): Located in the eastern part of the country, Kiritimati is the largest island in Kiribati and the world’s largest coral atoll. It is sparsely populated but is significant for its role in the fishing industry, agriculture, and tourism.
• Banaba Island: Located to the west of Tarawa, Banaba is another significant island in Kiribati. Historically, it was mined for phosphate, and it remains an important location for the country’s history and its people.
• Tabiteuea, Butaritari, and Abemama: These islands are also significant for their historical and cultural value. They are less developed than Tarawa, but they are vital parts of Kiribati’s cultural identity.

Time Zone

Kiribati operates on Gilbert Island Time (GILT), which is UTC +12:00. This time zone places Kiribati on the same time as regions like New Zealand and Fiji. However, the International Date Line cuts across the country, so some parts of Kiribati, like Kiritimati Island, operate on a slightly different time zone, UTC +14:00. This time zone difference is one of the unique characteristics of the nation, as it straddles the line that separates one day from the next.

Climate

Kiribati experiences a tropical climate, with consistently warm temperatures throughout the year. The climate is influenced by the equator, and the islands are typically humid and subject to seasonal rainfall. The country’s geographical spread also results in slight regional variations in climate.

Year-Round Warmth

Temperatures in Kiribati are consistently warm, with average highs ranging from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F) year-round. Nights are usually cooler, with temperatures averaging around 23°C (73°F). The islands’ tropical nature means there is little seasonal variation in temperature, although humidity can be quite high.

Rainfall and Wet Season

Kiribati has a pronounced wet season, typically from November to March. During this period, the islands receive heavy rainfall, especially from the central to western atolls. However, the rainfall is often erratic and varies greatly from island to island. The wet season is accompanied by occasional storms and cyclones, particularly in the southern islands. From April to October, the country experiences a drier period, although brief showers can still occur.

Cyclone Season

While not as prone to cyclones as some other Pacific island nations, Kiribati can still be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes. Cyclone season generally runs from November to April, and these storms can cause flooding, high winds, and damage to infrastructure, especially in low-lying areas.

Economic Status

Kiribati is one of the world’s least developed nations, with a small and fragile economy. The country is highly dependent on foreign aid and remittances, and its primary sources of income come from fishing, agriculture, and the export of copra (dried coconut meat). The government has also sought to diversify its economy through tourism and the sale of fishing licenses to foreign companies.

Key Economic Sectors

• Fishing and Marine Resources: The fishing industry is the most significant sector in Kiribati’s economy. The country has one of the world’s largest exclusive economic zones (EEZ), which includes abundant fish stocks, particularly tuna. The government sells fishing rights to foreign fleets, which is one of its largest sources of revenue. Local fishing provides food for the population, but the country’s dependence on this industry also makes it vulnerable to global price fluctuations and overfishing.
• Agriculture: Agriculture in Kiribati is limited due to the small size of the land available for farming. The soil on most of the islands is not fertile, and the nation’s agricultural output is therefore limited to crops such as coconuts, pandanus, breadfruit, and taro. The country is also known for its production of copra, which is exported for the production of coconut oil.
• Tourism: Kiribati has made efforts to develop its tourism sector, capitalizing on its pristine beaches, marine biodiversity, and the unique culture of its islands. However, due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, tourism has yet to become a major driver of economic growth. Nevertheless, places like Kiritimati Island, with its beautiful coral reefs, attract eco-tourists and diving enthusiasts.
• Foreign Aid: Due to its economic limitations, Kiribati relies heavily on foreign aid, particularly from Australia, New Zealand, and international organizations. This assistance supports various social programs, infrastructure projects, and government operations.

Tourist Attractions

Kiribati is known for its natural beauty, especially its coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and marine life. However, its remote location and lack of infrastructure mean that it is not a mainstream tourist destination, and the number of visitors is relatively small. Nonetheless, for adventurous travelers and those seeking a pristine natural environment, Kiribati offers unique experiences.

Kiritimati Island (Christmas Island)

Kiritimati Island is the largest and most visited island in Kiribati. It is known for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The island’s remote location also makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching, as it hosts several species of seabirds. Kiritimati is also famous for its fishing, both for sport and commercial purposes.

Tarawa Atoll

Tarawa Atoll, the capital region, offers a mix of cultural experiences and historical sites. The British colonial government buildings, traditional villages, and World War II memorials provide insight into the nation’s past. Visitors can also explore the nearby beaches and engage with local communities to learn about the Kiribati way of life.

Abaiang Island

Abaiang is a picturesque island that is known for its pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and coral reefs. It is one of the more tranquil spots in Kiribati, offering an escape from the busier areas like Tarawa. The island is a good destination for eco-tourism, where visitors can experience traditional I-Kiribati culture and explore the lush, natural environment.

Birdwatching

Kiribati is home to numerous bird species, particularly on its uninhabited islands. Places like Birnie Island and Malden Island are significant for their seabird colonies. These islands are protected areas, and birdwatchers can see species such as the Tongan megapode, green sea turtles, and a variety of sea birds nesting.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens wishing to visit Kiribati must obtain a visa prior to arrival. However, in many cases, U.S. citizens can visit Kiribati as tourists for up to 30 days without requiring a visa. For stays longer than 30 days or for other purposes like business, a visa must be obtained through the Kiribati Embassy or consular services. The following documents are generally required for a visa application:

• A valid U.S. passport (with at least six months of validity beyond the planned departure date)
• A completed visa application form
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of travel arrangements (e.g., flight itinerary)
• Proof of accommodation in Kiribati
• Proof of sufficient financial means to support the stay

Travelers are advised to check with the Kiribati government or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

• From New York City to Kiribati (Tarawa): The flight distance is approximately 15,300 km (9,500 miles). Direct flights are not available, so travelers must make multiple stopovers, often in destinations such as Hawaii, Fiji, or New Zealand. The flight duration can vary greatly, but it typically takes between 24 to 30 hours, depending on layovers.
• From Los Angeles to Kiribati (Tarawa): The flight distance is approximately 13,800 km (8,600 miles). Similar to flights from New York, travelers must take connecting flights, typically via Hawaii, Fiji, or New Zealand, with a total travel time of around 20 to 25 hours.

Kiribati Facts

Size	811 km²
Residents	103,000
Languages	Gilbertian and English
Capital	South Tarawa
Longest river	–
Highest mountain	80 m
Currency	Kiribati dollars and Australian dollars