Where is Micronesia Located?
Where is Micronesia located on the map? Federated States of Micronesia is an independent nation located in Micronesia. Check out the following images to see location of Micronesia on maps.
Micronesia Location in World Map
The “Federated States of Micronesia ” are located in the South Pacific. They include 607 islands, including the Carolines. Only the archipelagos around Palau are not included, because they form their own state.
The land area of the islands is 702 square kilometers. The sea surface is much larger, it covers 3 million square kilometers. There is no national border with other countries. Incidentally, Micronesia means “small islands”, a description that is absolutely correct. The islands are largely of volcanic origin and some are densely forested.
The main islands are called Pohnpei, Kosrae, Chuuk and Yap. The first three belong to the East Carolina, Yap and the independent state of Palau form the West Carolina. The four states into which the South Pacific state is divided are of the same name. The length of the coast is 6112 kilometers. From Korae in the far east to the Yap group in the west you travel 2500 kilometers.
The highest mountain in the Federated States of Micronesia is called Mount Nahna and is located on the island of Pohnpei. It reaches a height of 798 meters. The longest river is the Malem River.
The largest city is called Weno, is on the island of Moen and is located on the Chuuk Atoll. The capital Palikiris on the island of Pohnpei and here is also the seat of the government of the Federated States of Micronesia.
On the map you can see the location of the many small islands and, above all, how far they are spread out in the Pacific Ocean.
Location Information of Micronesia
Latitude and Longitude
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean, part of the larger Micronesian region. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 6.779° N latitude and 158.249° E longitude. Micronesia is an archipelago consisting of four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, which are spread across a vast area of ocean, covering around 2.6 million square kilometers (1 million square miles).
Micronesia is located to the northeast of Papua New Guinea, about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) from the Philippines and 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) from Hawaii. Its proximity to the international shipping routes and its location in the Pacific Ocean make it strategically significant, though its remoteness limits its accessibility.
Capital City and Major Cities
Capital City: Palikir
The capital of Micronesia is Palikir, located on the island of Pohnpei, the largest and most populous of the four states. Palikir serves as the political, administrative, and economic center of the country, with government buildings and embassies based in the city. It has a relatively small population, estimated at around 4,000 people. Despite its modest size, Palikir is a hub for the Federated States of Micronesia’s federal government. The capital is surrounded by lush forests and offers beautiful views of the island’s natural beauty, including waterfalls and mangrove swamps.
Major Cities
- Kolonia: Located on the island of Pohnpei, Kolonia is the largest city in Micronesia, with a population of approximately 10,000. It is the commercial and economic center of Pohnpei and hosts the largest port and airport in the country. The city is located on the western shore of Pohnpei Island and is the main entry point for international travelers.
- Weno: The capital of Chuuk State, Weno is located on the island of Weno in the central Pacific Ocean. It is the largest urban center in the Chuuk Lagoon and has a population of about 15,000 people. Weno is the main economic hub of the Chuuk state, with services, trade, and transport services that connect the state to the rest of Micronesia.
- Yap Proper: The capital of Yap State, Colonia, is situated on the island of Yap. The state capital serves as the political and economic hub for the island and the surrounding Yap islands. Yap Proper has a population of around 5,000 people. The state is famous for its unique culture, particularly its stone money, which is still used in some traditional transactions.
- Tofol: The capital of Kosrae State, Tofol is located on the island of Kosrae, which is the smallest of the four states. The capital is the center for local governance and has a population of approximately 6,000 people. Kosrae is known for its natural beauty, including coral reefs, mountains, and waterfalls.
Time Zone
Micronesia spans across several time zones, primarily falling within the UTC +10:00 to UTC +11:00 range. The country does not observe daylight saving time. Specifically:
- Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk operate on Chuuk Time (UTC +10:00).
- Yap State operates on Yap Time (UTC +10:00), which is the same as the time in Pohnpei and Kosrae.
All states of the Federated States of Micronesia are within the same time zone with no changes for daylight saving time. This consistency in timekeeping helps facilitate coordination across the country’s dispersed islands.
Climate
The climate of Micronesia is generally tropical, with year-round warmth and humidity. The islands experience two main seasons: a wet season and a dry season.
- Wet Season (May to October): The wet season is characterized by high humidity and frequent rainfall. Micronesia lies within the path of tropical cyclones, which can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas, especially in the months of August and September. These cyclones, however, tend to be less severe compared to other Pacific islands like Fiji or Hawaii. The wet season brings an average rainfall of 3,000 mm (118 inches) annually, depending on the location.
- Dry Season (November to April): The dry season experiences lower rainfall and cooler winds, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. Temperatures remain warm, typically around 28-30°C (82-86°F), but the humidity is less oppressive than during the wet season. This season is also the peak tourist period when more travelers visit the islands.
- Temperature: The temperature in Micronesia is fairly consistent throughout the year, with average highs around 30°C (86°F) and lows around 22°C (72°F). Nights are usually cooler, especially on the higher elevations of the islands.
- Humidity: The humidity level in Micronesia is high, ranging between 75% to 90% throughout the year. This contributes to the lush vegetation and dense rainforests that are common on the islands.
Economic Status
Micronesia has a small but stable economy, heavily reliant on foreign aid, agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The country has limited natural resources, but its strategic location in the Pacific provides access to international shipping lanes.
1. Foreign Aid and Government Assistance
Micronesia has a Compact of Free Association with the United States, which provides financial assistance to the country. This agreement, which grants the U.S. military access to Micronesian territory, has historically been a significant source of income for the FSM government. The compact is set to expire in 2023, and discussions for renewal and additional aid are ongoing.
2. Agriculture
Agriculture is an important sector in Micronesia, with traditional crops such as coconuts, taro, breadfruit, and bananas being grown for both local consumption and export. However, the agricultural sector is relatively small, with the country relying heavily on imports for food and other essential goods.
3. Fishing
Micronesia’s extensive exclusive economic zone (EEZ) allows it to tap into rich marine resources. Commercial fishing, particularly tuna, is one of the primary sources of income. The government of Micronesia is involved in international fishing agreements, particularly with Japan and Taiwan, to manage tuna stocks and generate revenue from licensing and royalties.
4. Tourism
Tourism plays an increasingly important role in Micronesia’s economy, with many travelers coming for the pristine beaches, scuba diving, and cultural experiences. The islands are home to some of the world’s most unspoiled coral reefs, making them ideal for underwater exploration. Major tourist activities include diving, snorkeling, and cultural tourism. The islands of Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Yap attract visitors due to their unique history and natural beauty.
5. Challenges
Micronesia faces several economic challenges, including high dependency on foreign aid, limited infrastructure, and vulnerability to climate change, particularly rising sea levels. Efforts are being made to diversify the economy, but the small population and geographic isolation pose obstacles to large-scale development.
Tourist Attractions
- Chuuk Lagoon The Chuuk Lagoon (also known as Truk Lagoon) is one of the most famous scuba diving destinations in the world. It is the site of a World War II shipwreck site, where over 50 sunken vessels, aircraft, and other relics from the war are preserved underwater. The lagoon is a mecca for wreck diving enthusiasts, and the clear waters and rich marine life make it an ideal destination for divers.
- Nan Madol Located on the island of Pohnpei, Nan Madol is an ancient stone city built on a lagoon. Often referred to as the “Venice of the Pacific,” it features megalithic structures and was once the ceremonial and political center of the island. It is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate site and attracts visitors interested in archaeology and history.
- Yap Stone Money Yap is known for its traditional stone money, large discs made from limestone, which were historically used as currency in transactions. Visitors can learn about this unique form of money and explore Yap’s traditional villages and cultural heritage.
- Kosrae Known as the “Jewel of Micronesia,” Kosrae offers beautiful coral reefs, lush rainforests, and hiking trails. Attractions include the Lelu Ruins, the ancient capital of Kosrae, and the Kosrae State Museum, which displays artifacts related to the island’s history.
- Pohnpei Pohnpei is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, mangrove forests, and scenic mountains. Visitors can explore Sokehs Rock, a 600-meter-high basalt formation, or take a trip to Pohnpei’s waterfalls, such as Wonei Waterfall.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens do not require a visa to visit the Federated States of Micronesia for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining and may be required to provide proof of onward travel or sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
Distance to New York City
The distance from New York City to Palikir, the capital of Micronesia, is approximately 10,500 kilometers (6,500 miles). Flights from New York to Micronesia generally require one or two layovers, typically through major Asian hubs like Tokyo or Seoul.
Distance to Los Angeles
The distance from Los Angeles to Palikir is approximately 8,500 kilometers (5,280 miles). Direct flights are not available, and travelers typically transit through airports in Hawaii, Guam, or other Pacific islands. Flight durations vary but generally take between 12 and 14 hours, depending on the number of layovers.
Micronesia Facts
| Size | 702 km² |
| Residents | 104,000 |
| Languages | Korean, Pohnpean, Yapese, Chuukes, Ulith, Woleaian and English |
| Capital | Palikir |
| Longest river | Malem river |
| Highest mountain | Mount Nahna |
| Currency | U.S. dollar |
