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Bonriki Plateau
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The Bonriki Plateau, located at the southeast corner of Tarawa Atoll, is a geographically and ecologically vital area for the Republic of Kiribati. As one of the widest sections of the atoll, it provides the necessary landmass for the Bonriki International Airport, the nation's primary link to the outside world. More importantly, the plateau sits atop the largest freshwater lens in South Tarawa, which is the most critical source of potable water for the densely populated atoll. The terrain is characterized by very low relief, typical of coral atolls, with elevations barely rising above sea level. This makes the plateau exceptionally vulnerable to climate change and rising sea levels, as saltwater intrusion poses a direct threat to the freshwater supply. The area is subject to strict environmental management and water conservation efforts. For visitors and researchers, the Bonriki area exemplifies the delicate balance of life on a low-lying atoll and the ongoing challenges of resource management in the central Pacific.
- Location: Kiribati
- Top sights: Bonriki Roman Catholic Church · KPC area · Mormon Church
- Nearby: Eita (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 212 | 157 | 220 | 171 | 103 | 136 | 119 | 107 | 92 | 95 | 95 | 208 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Bonriki Plateau is one of the widest landmasses on Tarawa. The area is publicly accessible, though parts are reserved for water extraction.
Typical hours
The plateau is walkable at any time as it is open terrain. There are no opening hours, but daylight use is recommended.
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere; the wide landscape and lush vegetation offer beautiful subjects. Watch for low sun for dramatic shots.
Time needed
Plan about 30 to 60 minutes for a walk across the plateau. Those wanting to study vegetation can spend more time.
Combine with
Combine the plateau with the nearby Bonriki Airport Terminal. The beaches south of the plateau are also worth a visit.
Getting there
The plateau is east of the airport and accessible on foot or by bicycle. Buses from the capital Bairiki serve the area.
Insider tip
Visit the plateau early morning when birds are active and the air is still cool. Wear sturdy shoes for the unpaved paths.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: 3 m
- Airport: Bonriki International (IATA: TRW)
- Opened: 1943 as military airfield
- Runway length: 2,422 m
- Passengers: over 250,000 annually
- Location: Tarawa Atoll
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bonriki Plateau (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is located on the Bonriki Plateau?
The international airport of Kiribati (Bonriki International Airport) is located there.
Why is the plateau important for water supply?
It houses an important freshwater lens that supplies South Tarawa with drinking water.
Is access to the area permitted?
Access to water protection areas is restricted, but the airport area is public.
Are there trees there?
Yes, there are many coconut palms and Pandanus trees in the vicinity.
How far is it to Bairiki?
It is about 30 km along the causeway, roughly 45-60 minutes' drive.
Bonriki Plateau: where is it located?
Bonriki Plateau is located in Kiribati.
Bonriki Plateau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bonriki Roman Catholic Church, KPC area, Mormon Church.
Bonriki Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Bonriki Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Bonriki Plateau, located at the southeast corner of Tarawa Atoll, is a geographically and ecologically vital area for the Republic of Kiribati.
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History & landmarks
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The terminal of Bonriki International Airport is the main gateway to Kiribati.
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The Parliament Building of Kiribati is located in Ambo on South Tarawa.
Bairiki Independence Site
The central square in Bairiki where the independence of Kiribati from the United Kingdom was officially proclaimed in 1979.
Bairiki National Stadium
The stadium in Bairiki is the largest sporting venue in Kiribati.
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Betio is a flat islet at the western end of Tarawa Atoll.
Nature
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Tarawa Lagoon
Tarawa Lagoon is the centerpiece of Kiribati's main atoll.
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Abaokoro Wetlands
The Abaokoro area in North Tarawa encompasses valuable wetlands crucial for the biodiversity of the Gilbert Islands.
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More places
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National Library and Archives
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Kiribati Fish Limited Facility
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Betio Shipyard
The shipyard in South Tarawa is the central facility for the maintenance and repair of the national commercial and fishing fleet.
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U.S. Marine Memorial
This memorial honors the soldiers of the U.S.
Betio Port
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Australian War Memorial
This memorial on Betio honors the Australian coastwatchers who were executed during World War II.