Tourism Authority Kiribati

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Ketia Natan

KIRIBATI REPRESENTED AT THE PACIFIC REGENERATIVE VERIFICATION EXCHANGE PROGRAM.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is proud to announce its participation in the Pacific Regenerative Verification Exchange Program, with Mrs. Kiarake Karuaki, Tourism Officer for Product Development and Investment Promotion, representing Kiribati during a threeweek immersive experience hosted by Five Sixty Farms in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia.

The program brought together representatives from across the Pacific to explore three core pillars of regenerative practice:

  • Regenerative Farming and Agriculture
  • Regenerative Gastronomy
  • Regenerative Agritourism

Through this exchange, Mrs. Karuaki and her regional peers gained valuable insights into how tourism can be developed through regenerative approaches that honour traditional knowledge, strengthen cultural identity, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

One of the key highlights of the program was the focus on nourishment through local food sources. This approach not only enhances visitor experiences but also supports the health and wellbeing of local communities. Considering the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kiribati, the promotion of traditional, nutritious food practices holds great potential as part of community-based tourism initiatives.

Another major learning outcome centred on the importance of soil health—its essential role in sustaining food systems, human wellbeing, and ecological balance. This holistic perspective, rooted in regenerative farming and agriculture, forms the foundation for regenerative gastronomy and agritourism. It reinforces the deep interconnection between land, culture, and community resilience.

The exchange also highlighted the importance of grounding tourism development in the authentic livelihoods of local communities, rather than solely responding to market trends. Regenerative approaches in farming, gastronomy, and agritourism serve as powerful pathways to revitalise cultural traditions that risk being lost over time.

Kiribati’s participation in this program represents an important milestone in its journey towards regenerative tourism – one that celebrates authenticity, sustainability, and cultural pride.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati extends its sincere gratitude to the Pacific Islands Forum, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), and the Regenerative Vanua for their invaluable support and coordination. Special appreciation is also given to Five Sixty Farms for their warm hospitality and knowledge-sharing throughout the exchange program.

EXPERIENCE WITH US FAR FAR AWAY ARORAE ISLAND, KIRIBATI’S SOUTHERNMOST ISLAND- SEE IT IN OUR LATEST VIDEO.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is excited to share a new promotional video that brings the remote and captivating Arorae Island to life. As the southernmost island of the Gilbert Group, Arorae offers a unique glimpse into the people, culture, and way of life of its vibrant community.

Visitors will be enchanted by the warm and welcoming people of Arorae, who proudly preserve their cultural traditions. The island is renowned for ancient navigation stones, frigate bird taming, traditional canoe fishing, and dynamic island dances, reflecting centuries of heritage and the rhythm of daily life. Through the video, viewers can experience these customs firsthand in the island’s traditions, showing how the people of Arorae maintain and share their vibrant culture with the world.

Arorae also offers authentic local accommodations, including the Arorae Island Council Guesthouse and Te Baba n Aine Guesthouse, where travellers can enjoy the hospitality of the island community. Surrounding the island is the vast, open Pacific Ocean, with pristine beaches and breathtaking coastal scenery that provide the perfect backdrop to Arorae’s rich culture.

🎥 Watch the video here to explore Arorae Island like never before.

This video is part of TAK’s ongoing efforts to promote Kiribati’s outer islands, showcasing Arorae as an authentic island destination for visitors seeking culture, adventure, and natural beauty, where the experience is with the people.

TAK CONDUCTS TOURISM SURVEYS ON ARORAE ISLAND FOR THE FIRST TIME

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK), through its Research and Statistics Division, has successfully carried out its first-ever Tourism Business Inventory Survey (TBIS), Outer Island Perception Survey (OIPS), and Cultural Attractions Mapping on Arorae Island.  Arorae Island is the furthest island in located in Southern Gilbert Group of Kiribati.

The TBIS identified two operational accommodations on the island – the Arorae Island Council Guesthouse and Te Baba n Aine Guesthouse in Tamaroa. Together, these facilities provide a total of nine available rooms: five at the Arorae Island Council Guesthouse and four at Te Baba n Aine Guesthouse. The survey also revealed that three women are currently employed in the tourism sector – two at Te Baba n Aine Guesthouse and one at the Island Council Guesthouse.

The OIPS collected valuable insights from local residents on their perceptions of tourism, including the environmental, socio-economic, and cultural benefits they have experienced. It also identified attractions that locals believe hold strong potential to attract visitors to Arorae.

In addition, the mapping of cultural and natural attractions highlighted several key sites of interest, including historical landmarks and frigate bird feeding sites, locally known as “Te Kai n Tiku.”

TAK extends its sincere appreciation to the Arorae Unimwane (Tabwakeauea), the Island Council Mayor, Acting Clerk, KUC Church Minister, and the Arorae community for their warm support, cooperation, and teamwork with the TAK team throughout the surveys.

KIRIBATI TOURISM NEARS 10,000 VISITOR MILESTONE- A RECORD YEAR FOR THE INDUSTRY.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) proudly announces a remarkable achievement for the country’s tourism industry. For the first time, Kiribati recorded a total of 9,504 visitor arrivals in 2024, marking a significant milestone as the destination moves closer to the 10,000-visitor benchmark.

The 2024 Annual Tourism Review presents a comprehensive overview of Kiribati’s tourism performance, capturing key data on visitor arrivals and departures, purpose of visit, nationality, and monthly trends. The report also examines domestic travel patterns by sea and air, visitation to the Kiribati Museum, and insights into the tourism supply chain across the islands. In addition, it highlights cruise passenger numbers, yacht arrivals, and tourism intensity rates resulting from the increase in visitor arrivals.

 Key Highlights

  • Pacific countries emerged as the leading source market in 2024, contributing 30% of total arrivals.
  • Australia and the United States followed closely, each representing 18% of arrivals.
  • Corporate travel remained the primary purpose of the visit, particularly among Pacific and Australian nationals.
  • The United States continued to lead as the top source market for fishing tourism in Kiritimati.

 Growth in Accommodation and Tourism Supply

Kiribati’s accommodation sector also experienced notable growth, expanding from 69 establishments in 2023 to 74 in 2024. This growth includes a 7% increase in rooms, 8% increase in beds, and an 11% increase in tourism employment.

Although the number of accommodation establishments in South Tarawa, the capital, remains constant, the number of available rooms rose by 20%.

New developments include three establishments in North Tarawa, one in Makin, and one in Butaritari, reflecting continued investment in the country’s tourism infrastructure.

Domestic Travel Trends

Domestic travel data shows a 12% increase in air travel and a 6% decrease in sea travel compared to 2023, highlighting a shift in travel preferences among residents and local travellers. For full details of the report, please click here. Kiribati Tourism Review 2024

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati extends its sincere appreciation to the following partners for their invaluable support and contribution to this report: Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), Air Kiribati Limited, Marine Guard, Immigration Department, Shipping Agencies of Kiribati, Kiribati Customs Office, and all tourism operators and accommodation providers who supplied data for the 2024 review.

PACIFIC YOUTH LEADING THE WAY TOWARD SUSTAINABLE TOURISM.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) proudly represented Kiribati at the inaugural Youth Forum on Sustainable Tourism, held from 18-22 October 2025 in Neiafu, Vava’u Island, Kingdom of Tonga.

Ms. Kiarake Karuaki, Tourism Officer for Product Development, joined youth delegates from across the Pacific to share insights and experiences in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for tourism in the region.

This landmark forum was a direct outcome of the 2023 Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting, where regional leaders endorsed the establishment of a youth platform under the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Leadership Summit. The initiative aims to empower young Pacific voices to play an active role in advancing sustainable, culturally grounded, and inclusive tourism development.

Youth representatives from Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, Niue, Fiji, and Kiribati took part in the five-day program, sharing inspiring stories of innovation, resilience, and cultural pride.

Over four days of dialogue, workshops, and collaboration, participants reflected on their roles as emerging leaders in tourism. The forum provided a platform to exchange ideas, explore shared challenges, and build a collective vision for a more resilient and sustainable Pacific tourism sector.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the Pacific Youth in Tourism Action Plan (2025-2030), unveiled during the Tourism Ministers Meeting. This strategic framework outlines a shared commitment among Pacific youth to co-create a regenerative tourism landscape, one that honours cultural heritage, promotes environmental stewardship, and strengthens community empowerment.

The forum also fostered meaningful regional connections, laying the groundwork for ongoing collaboration and innovation among Pacific youth in tourism. Their unified vision underscores the importance of youth engagement in ensuring that tourism continues to benefit both people and the planet.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati extends its sincere gratitude to Pacer Plus for funding the Youth Forum and expresses heartfelt appreciation to the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO), the Government and Ministry of Tourism of Tonga, local tourism operators, and the people of Vava’u for their warm hospitality and unwavering support in making this milestone event a success.

TAK REPRESENTATIVE COMPLETES BELT AND ROAD SEMINAR ON CULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY IN CHINA.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) proudly announces that Mr. Garstang Bitauea has completed the Seminar on Integration of Culture and Technology for Belt and Road Countries, held in the People’s Republic of China from 15 to 28 October 2025.

The two-week seminar brought together participants from ten countries, including Kiribati, to explore how digital innovation and cultural integration can support sustainable tourism and development.

The program focused on key themes such as artificial intelligence in cultural industries, digital preservation of heritage, and smart tourism solutions.

As part of the program, participants visited Tencent Headquarters in Beijing, cultural heritage sites like the Great Wall and the Temple of Heaven, and innovation labs in Changsha, gaining firsthand insights into China’s integration of culture and technology.

TAK extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration (CACTA) for this valuable opportunity.

The knowledge and experience gained will contribute to TAK’s ongoing efforts to embrace technology and innovation in advancing Kiribati’s tourism sector.

MISS KIRIBATI CROWNED MISS MICRONESIA 2025.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati proudly congratulates Miss Kiribati 2025, Ms. Atiterentaai Rinimarawa, who was crowned as Miss Micronesia 2025 during the pageant held in Nauru on 9th October 2025.

This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Kiribati and the Micronesian community, as Ms. Rinimarawa becomes the first-ever Miss Micronesia, bringing honor and pride to her beloved country and region.

Throughout her journey, Miss Rinimarawa demonstrated exceptional dedication, grace, and talent as she represented Kiribati on the regional stage. Her outstanding performance earned her three special awards for these categories:

  • Best Talent Show
  • Best Mother Hubbard Wear
  • Best Canopy

Her success not only celebrates her individual excellence but also showcases the cultural richness and spirit of Kiribati. The people of Kiribati share in this proud moment as Ms. Rinimarawa’s victory becomes a source of inspiration for young women across the Pacific. She made history for Kiribati and the Micronesia region.

Cruise Ship Passengers Welcomed to Kiribati, as MS Zaandam Arrives at Tabuaeran

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A group of people walking in an open area with market stalls.

For the first time since March 2023, the people of Tabuaeran were able to welcome cruise ship passengers to their home, as Holland America Line’s MS Zaandam arrived at Paelau on the morning of Wednesday 15 October 2025.

Hundreds of passengers from around the world experienced a taste of Kiribati culture and lifestyle at Paelau Port, including handicraft stalls, performances from local schools and community groups, and swimming at picturesque beaches.

Passengers were also able to venture across the island on foot and by boat, meeting local communities and exploring snorkelling sites.

The visit was a great success for the people of Tabuaeran, providing an economic boost to local schools, business and community members, and strengthening the international perception and reputation of Tabuaeran as a tourism destination.

Two officers from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati team on Kiritimati Island helped to facilitate the visit as members of a larger boarding party that included representatives from Health, Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Police.

In preparation for the cruise ship, TAK Tourism Officers participated in the community clean-up efforts, creating a safe and tidy environment for passengers upon arrival.

We extend our thanks to the crew of the MS Zaandam for their assistance onshore, as well as the passengers for their kindness and generosity during their time on Tabuaeran.

We also thank the Tabuaeran Island Council and the local community for their assistance in preparing the arrival site, providing entertainment and welcoming the cruise ship passengers with excitement and enthusiasm.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati looks forward to contributing to the success of future cruise ship arrivals in Tabuaeran and beyond.

TAK Launches Community-Based Tourism Experience on Butaritari Island, Kiribati.

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has officially unveiled a new community-based tourism (CBT) experience on Butaritari Island, marking the first of its kind in the northern Gilbert Group and the third CBT initiative across Kiribati.

The three-day familiarization tour, held from 11–14 September 2025, was coordinated by TAK’s Tourism Product Development Officer, Ms Kiarake Karuaki. The Honourable Minister (for Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives), Mrs Tangariki Reete, members of the TAK Board of Directors, representatives from Kiribati Coconut Development Limited (KCDL), and senior MTCIC officials participated in the event, experiencing firsthand the variety of tourism products developed by the communities on Butaritari.

Participants visited Antakana Village, Buroon Taakenraoi (Kuuma Village), Keuea Village, Tanimaiaki Village, the Utirake community in Onomwaru Village, Ukiangang Village, and Bikati Islet. Each location showcased a unique range of CBT packages, including:
• Marine-based activities – guided tours of marine protected areas and marine heritage sites.
• Cultural immersion – traditional performances such as the Nan Tekei war dance.
• Agri-tourism – hands-on experiences with the Polynesian Arrowroot (te mwakemwake).
• Battlefield tourism – visits to historic sites of the Battle of Makin, the Makin Raid, and the bombing of Keuea Village.

To ensure sustainability, TAK has formally registered CBT operators in Butaritari as cooperatives, empowering them to strengthen their operations and explore future business opportunities.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, TAK acknowledged the strong partnership of the Butaritari Island Council, the Mayor and Clerk, the Tekinati (Butaritari Unimwane Association), and especially the CBT operators themselves. Their commitment and collaboration have been vital in establishing Butaritari’s place on Kiribati’s growing tourism map.

This community-led initiative reflects a shared commitment to valuing cultural heritage and natural resources while ensuring local communities directly benefit from tourism development.

Kiribati International Visitor Survey 2024

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The Tourism Authority of Kiribati, in collaboration with the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), has successfully completed the International Visitor Survey (IVS) 2024. Kiribati was also one of ten Pacific Island countries participating in the Pacific Tourism Data Initiatives (PTDI) project, which was funded by the New Zealand Government.

The Kiribati International Visitor Survey (IVS) 2024 provides valuable insights into tourism trends, visitor experiences, and areas for improvement. Visitors found the friendly local people, the beautiful lagoon waters, and the rich culture to be the most appealing aspects of their stay. The survey results further showed that the majority of the visitors were first-time visitors to Kiribati (42%).

The survey revealed key visitor trends, with an average length of stay of eight nights. Business travel was the primary reason for visiting Kiribati, accounting for 39% of visitors, followed by holiday travel at 18%. The top source markets were Australia (31%), Fiji (18%), and New Zealand (14%). Additionally, 52% of visitors learned about Kiribati through their colleagues, highlighting the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations.

However, the survey also highlighted challenges affecting visitor satisfaction, including rubbish and cleanliness issues, accommodation quality, limited food and beverage options, and abandoned cars. To enhance the overall visitor experience, respondents suggested beach clean-ups, upgrades to accommodations, and improvements to public services and infrastructure.

The IVS 2024 report serves as a crucial tool for policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and businesses, offering insights that can shape the future of Kiribati’s tourism industry. By addressing visitor concerns and enhancing tourism infrastructure, Kiribati can strengthen its appeal as a travel destination. With targeted improvements, the country can ensure a more enriching experience for future visitors while promoting sustainable tourism initiatives that align with local values and environmental priorities.

As outlined in the current Kiribati Vision 20 (KV20), tourism is a priority sector from which the government aims to generate income. The IVS 2024 report provides valuable insights that could help drive economic returns by guiding strategic decisions on maximizing the benefits of tourism. More information, like average visitor spending, average household income, and tourist activities, can be viewed here: https://southpacificislands.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kiribati-IVS-Jan-Dec-2024-Report_.pdf