Aranuka - Discovering Kiribati

Travelling to Aranuka

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Aranuka, a pretty good destination in Kiribati (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Aranuka and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Aranuka, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kiribati, here's everything to know about Aranuka for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Aranuka

Aranuka is a coral atoll located in the Gilbert Islands group of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean. It is comprised of several islets and has a total land area of approximately 13 square kilometers. The population of Aranuka is estimated to be around 2,100 people. The local economy revolves around fishing and copra production. Aranuka is known for its beautiful turquoise lagoon and white sand beaches, as well as its traditional crafts and dances. The best time to visit Aranuka is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to March.

What to visit in Aranuka

Aranuka is a stunning coral atoll located in the Central Pacific Ocean and it is famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise-blue waters, and diverse marine life. Here are some of the top tourist attractions of Aranuka: 1. Aranuka Island Beach - This is the most popular beach on the island and is known for its soft, white sand and warm, clear water. Visitors can swim, snorkel or just relax and enjoy the beautiful view.
2. Aranuka Island Lagoon - This lagoon is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful corals.
3. Maria Sagai Lookout - This scenic lookout point offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Visitors can climb to the top of the viewpoint and enjoy the stunning sunset and sunrise.
4. Betio War Memorial - This memorial commemorates the World War II Battle of Tarawa, which took place on nearby Betio Island and claimed the lives of more than 1,000 Americans and over 5,000 Japanese soldiers.
5. Aranuka Island Cultural Center - This cultural center showcases the history and traditions of the Kiribati people. Visitors can learn about the culture, art, music, and dance of the island's inhabitants.
6. Birdwatching - Aranuka is home to a variety of seabirds, including the red-footed booby, the brown noddy, and the black noddy. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching tours and sightings during their stay.
7. Fishing - Aranuka offers some of the best sport fishing in the world with a variety of fish species like marlin, tuna, and sailfish. Visitors can enjoy a day of deep-sea fishing and later, enjoy a delicious fish meal.
Overall, Aranuka is a great place to experience the beauty of the Kiribati islands, relaxing on the beach, participate in watersports, visit cultural centers, and enjoy the island's natural beauty.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kiribati, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Aranuka

The best time to visit Aranuka in Kiribati is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. This period is characterized by lower humidity levels and less rainfall, making it more comfortable to explore the island and enjoy its beaches and waters. The temperatures during this time usually range between 25°C to 30°C. However, please note that Kiribati is a tropical country, and even during the dry season, there might be occasional showers or thunderstorms.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Aranuka

Aranuka is one of the many beautiful islands of Kiribati, reachable by air and sea. Here are the two ways to get to Aranuka: 1. By Air: The two nearest airports to Aranuka are: - Marakei Airport (MZK), which is served by Fiji Airways and Air Kiribati.
- Abemama Airport (AEA), which can be reached by Air Kiribati.
From either of these, you will need to take a domestic flight operated by Air Kiribati to Aranuka Airport (AAK). The flight duration from Marakei to Aranuka is around 20 minutes, while from Abemama it takes around 30 minutes.
2. By Sea: You can also take a ferry from Betio in Tarawa, which can take up to 24 hours to reach Aranuka. The ferries are operated by the Ministry of Transport and Tourism Development and depart weekly.
It is important to note that schedules and transportation modes may vary, especially during the pandemic. Please check with the relevant authorities for the latest updates and requirements when visiting Kiribati.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Aranuka, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Aranuka

1. Te Kawe: This dish is made with mashed taro, grated coconut, and salt. The ingredients are mixed well and served in small coconut shells.
2. Kakai: Kakai is the Kiribati version of a kebab. It is made with chunks of meat, usually fish or chicken, interspersed with pieces of cassava, onion, and tomato. The skewers are grilled over an open flame and served with lime wedges.
3. Temanu: Temanu is a dish made with grated coconut and seafood, usually crab or sea urchin. The coconut is mixed with a special seasoning made of salt, chili, lime juice, and herbs, and then served on a banana leaf.
4. Maneke: Maneke is a traditional Kiribati side dish made from pumpkin or sweet potato. It is boiled with coconut milk and seasoned with salt and sugar or honey.
5. Rukau: Rukau is a dish made with taro leaves and coconut cream. The leaves are boiled and then mixed with the cream, salt, and onion, and served as a side dish.
6. Ika Mata: Ika Mata is a dish made with raw fish, coconut cream, lime juice, and chopped vegetables like tomatoes and onions. The fish is mixed with the other ingredients and served cold.
7. Kukiti: Kukiti is a sweet snack made from grated pumpkin, coconut milk, and sugar. It is simmered until it thickens and then molded into small pieces and served as a dessert.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kiribati here.

Is Aranuka an expensive destination for tourists?

Aranuka is one of the less-visited islands in Kiribati and therefore, it's not a popular tourist destination. However, prices for accommodation and food may be higher compared to other islands in Kiribati due to the limited availability of resources and the cost of transportation. It is important to keep in mind that in general, Kiribati is an isolated and remote country, and therefore prices for any goods or services may be relatively high compared to other countries. Nonetheless, the local people are very welcoming and the island offers a unique cultural experience for those who are interested in the traditional way of life in this part of the world.

Where to find accomodation in Aranuka

There are limited options for accommodation on Aranuka in Kiribati. The island has a limited number of guesthouses and bungalows where tourists can stay. The main areas where you can find these accommodations are in the villages of Buariki and Utiroa. Buariki is located on the northwestern tip of the island and Utiroa is located in the southern part. Both villages are close to the island's main attractions, so it is convenient to stay in either of these places. However, it is always advisable to check availability and make reservations in advance. Additionally, visitors to Aranuka should be aware that the island has limited facilities and infrastructure, so it is important to plan accordingly and bring necessary supplies with you.
You can check hotel prices at Aranuka here:
Booking.com

Is Aranuka a safe destination for tourists?

As a general rule, Kiribati is considered a safe travel destination. However, like any other country, crime can occur and visitors should always take the appropriate precautions to stay safe. Aranuka is a small island in Kiribati and is considered a safe place for tourists. While crime is relatively rare, visitors are advised to exercise caution, particularly when it comes to personal belongings and avoiding walking alone in isolated areas at night. As with any travel destination, it is always a good idea to research any potential safety concerns before visiting a new place.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kiribati here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Aranuka.

What type of travelers will enjoy Aranuka the most?

Aranuka in Kiribati is a serene and secluded island that would primarily appeal to couples and family travelers seeking relaxation and an escape from crowded tourist destinations. This island is not known for its nightlife and entertainment options, so it may not be the ideal destination for young people seeking party destinations. However, it is an excellent place for couples and families looking to unwind, spend quality time together, and explore the island's cultural and natural beauty.

How to get around Aranuka

In Aranuka, the most common mode of transportation for locals is walking or biking, as the island is small enough to be easily navigated on foot or by bicycle. However, visitors may also be able to hire a local driver to use a motorbike or car if they prefer not to walk or bike.

What to see around Aranuka

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Aranuka. Here are some of them: 1. Abaiang: A neighboring island to the north of Aranuka, Abaiang is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional-style houses, and cultural activities. You can take a short boat ride or flight to get there.
2. Betio: Betio, located on the island of Tarawa, is home to the largest World War II memorial in the South Pacific. It's a great place to learn about the history of the area and pay your respects to those who lost their lives in the war.
3. Maiana: Another neighboring island to the north of Aranuka, Maiana is known for its stunning lagoon and serene beach. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
4. Bairiki: Also located on Tarawa, Bairiki is the capital of Kiribati and offers many opportunities to learn about the culture and history of the country. You can visit the Kiribati National Library and Archives, the Betio Martyrs Memorial, and much more.
5. South Tarawa: The southern end of Tarawa has some beautiful beaches, including Buariki Beach and Ambo Beach. You can also visit the Teinainano Urban Council Government Office, which is a beautiful example of traditional Kiribati architecture.
For every travel information about Kiribati you can click here.

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