Overview
Butaritari offers one of the most authentic remote island experiences in Kiribati, with evidence of WWII battles between Japanese and US forces still visible in bunkers, pontoons, and war memorial sites. The island was briefly home to Robert Louis Stevenson in 1889, and cultural shrines dedicated to Te Binekua (calling of whales) and Kaobunang remain accessible.
Culture · History · Island · Nature
Before you go
Culture
Leave offerings of tobacco or cigarettes at each shrine you visit. Traditional dancing performances may require perfume to be applied to dancers.
Health
Medical facilities are limited to a local clinic and village nurse. No pharmaceuticals available on the island. Bring all required medications and basic medical supplies.
Safety
Be flexible with plans due to remote location. Inform family of your travel plans and expected return. Communications limited; most villages have public phones.
Supplies
Take additional drinking water supplies beyond what is locally available. Food depends on daily catches and local crops. Basic supplies may be hard to find.
Transport
Butaritari has good natural harbor but limited scheduled boat services. Confirm transport arrangements well in advance and build buffer days into your itinerary for weather delays.