The Tourism Authority of Kiribati has released its Quarter 2 Tourism Industry Review for 2024, showcasing significant growth. The report highlights a 12% increase in international visitors compared to the same period in 2023, totalling 2,287 visitors. However, this marks a 6% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2024. Visitors from the Pacific Islands led with 28%, followed by Australia at 21% and the USA at 19%. Corporate travel was the primary reason for international arrivals, accounting for 41% of the total, while leisure travel made up 28%.
Domestic air travel within Kiribati showed a strong upward trend, with Abemama, Marakei, and Abaiang being the top most visited islands. Despite no yacht arrivals in June, the quarter recorded five yachts, indicating sustained international interest.
Marine passenger travel saw a slight decrease, with 9,663 passengers recorded, down by 3% from the previous quarter. Abaiang Island had the highest number of marine passengers, followed by North Tarawa and Maiana. Museum visits surged dramatically, with 629 visitors representing a 71% increase compared to the previous quarter (quarter 1 2024).
Accommodation facilities remained stable, with 73 hotels operating across the islands. North Tarawa had the highest number of accommodations, followed by South Tarawa and Kiritimati Island. A total of 721 rooms and 1,384 beds were available, with a significant share in the Gilberts Group.
TAK extends its appreciation to Air Kiribati Ltd, the Marine Guard Division, the Immigration Department, Te Umwanibong Cultural Museum, the Kiribati Customs Administration and Enforcement, and local tourism operators for their invaluable contributions to this comprehensive assessment of Kiribati’s tourism sector.
You may find the reports here.