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Nikumaroro
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Nikumaroro, formerly known as Gardner Island, is a remote coral atoll in the central Pacific, part of the Phoenix Islands in Kiribati. Currently uninhabited, the atoll is a key component of the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA), one of the world's largest marine protected zones and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island's interior is covered with dense Pisonia grandis forests, providing vital nesting grounds for thousands of migratory seabirds. Nikumaroro is particularly famous for its thriving population of giant coconut crabs (Birgus latro), the largest land-living arthropods in the world, which scavenge freely across the atoll. The site has also gained international fame due to the enduring mystery of Amelia Earhart; many researchers believe the aviator may have landed or sought refuge here after disappearing in 1937. The surrounding coral reefs are among the most pristine on Earth, featuring high densities of apex predators like reef sharks and an incredible variety of hard corals and reef fish.
- Location: Kiribati
- Top sights: Ritiati · SS Norwich City
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 | 147 | 209 | 138 | 113 | 95 | 78 | 74 | 75 | 51 | 53 | 63 | 118 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to explore Nikumaroro is the dry season from May to October, when giant coconut crabs appear and underwater visibility peaks. Rain and heavy winds reduce sightings from November to April.
Best time of day
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances to see giant coconut crabs foraging on the beach. Midday hours are well-suited for snorkeling over the coral reefs when sunlight penetrates the water clearly.
Etiquette
Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife, especially coconut crabs, and never touch or feed them. Do not remove any shells, corals, or marine life from the atoll. Follow all protected area regulations to preserve this fragile ecosystem.
What to bring
Pack a high-quality underwater camera and snorkel mask to capture the animated marine life. Wear reef-safe sunscreen and sturdy water shoes for walking on sharp coral rubble. Binoculars are useful for spotting seabirds from the boat.
Getting there
Nikumaroro is accessible only by expedition vessel or chartered boat from Tarawa or Fiji. Permits are required from the Kiribati government; arrange your trip through specialized wildlife tour operators well in advance.
What to expect
Wildlife encounters on Nikumaroro require genuine patience; you may not see giant coconut crabs every day. Take time to explore the pristine beaches and coral gardens, and appreciate the solitude of this remote paradise.
Geography
Facts
- Land area: 4.1 km²
- Lagoon area: 34 km²
- Highest elevation: 7 m
- Population: uninhabited
- US Army airstrip: 1943–1945
- Part of Phoenix Islands Protected Area since 2006
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 Nikumaroro (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Nikumaroro famous?
It is famous as the possible location where Amelia Earhart disappeared in 1937.
Can the island be visited?
Only with special permission and usually as part of scientific expeditions.
Are there water sources there?
No, lack of water was the main reason past settlement attempts failed.
What animals live there today?
The island is home to many crabs and is a paradise for seabirds.
Is the lagoon deep?
The lagoon is shallow and has no navigable access to the open sea.
Nikumaroro: where is it located?
Nikumaroro is located in Kiribati.
Nikumaroro: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ritiati, SS Norwich City.
Nikumaroro: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Nikumaroro: why is it worth visiting?
Nikumaroro, formerly known as Gardner Island, is a remote coral atoll in the central Pacific, part of the Phoenix Islands in Kiribati.
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This elongated coral atoll has a distinct reef rim and a central lagoon.
Orona Island
Orona Island, also known as Hull Island, is a large atoll with a shallow lagoon and numerous passes that allow constant water exchange.
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Manra is a nearly closed atoll in the Phoenix Islands.
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Manra Island is a circular atoll in the Phoenix group, featuring a hypersaline lagoon that is completely cut off from the sea.
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A series of historical stones (Te Kanawa) used by early inhabitants for celestial and maritime navigation between islands.
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A historical meeting house on Beru Island, considered the spiritual and political center of Kiribati culture.
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Te Animane Maneaba
One of the largest and most historically significant traditional meeting houses located on Tabiteuea North.
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Nikumaroro Island Park
Nikumaroro is a remote atoll with a deep central lagoon and lush vegetation.
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McKean is a small, uninhabited coral island in the Phoenix group, serving as a major avian sanctuary for thousands of seabirds.
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