Federated States of Micronesia Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, best time to visit, where to stay, and local culture of Federated States of Micronesia. Plan your trip with this complete travel guide.


Introduction to Federated States of Micronesia

Federated States of Micronesia is a small island country located in the western Pacific Ocean, comprising more than 600 islands and atolls. This tropical paradise is famous for its clear blue waters, stunning coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

The country has four main states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, each with their unique attractions and experiences. Travelers can enjoy outdoor adventures such as diving, hiking, and snorkeling. Federated States of Micronesia is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and historic sites, showcasing the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Federated States of Micronesia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Lelu Island, Kosrae: Lelu Island is home to the remains of the Kosrae Kingdom dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can tour the many structures that make up the Archaeological Site of Lelu, including temples, tombs, and stone walkways.

  2. Yap Ruins, Yap: The ancient stone structures of Yap are spread across ten kilometers of the island’s rolling hills and forests. The ruins, estimated to be over 2000 years old, were used by the people of Yap for ceremonial purposes.

  3. Micronesia History and Culture Museum, Pohnpei: This museum features exhibits detailing the history, culture, and mythology of Micronesia’s indigenous population. Visitors can view artifacts and learn about the traditional practices and beliefs of Micronesian people.

Natural Attractions of Federated States of Micronesia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Blue hole, Pohnpei: The Blue hole is a giant sinkhole filled with crystal clear water. Visitors can dive or snorkel in the hole and explore the limestone caves and tunnels surrounding it.

  2. Kepirohi Waterfall, Kosrae: A popular spot for hiking, the Kepirohi waterfall is a stunning natural wonder surrounded by lush forests. The waterfall stands over 20 feet tall and cascades into a refreshing pool perfect for swimming.

  3. Chuuk Lagoon, Chuuk: This lagoon is home to the world’s largest collection of shipwrecks from World War II. Visitors can dive and explore the over 50 sunken ships, airplanes, and submarines at the bottom of the lagoon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Federated States of Micronesia

  1. Mount Winipot, Pohnpei: The highest peak on Pohnpei, Mount Winipot, is a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the island and surrounding waters.

  2. Nan Madol, Pohnpei: Visitors can hike through the ruins of the ancient city of Nan Madol while learning about the city’s unique architectural style and the legends surrounding it.

Best Things to Do in Federated States of Micronesia: Activities and Tours

  1. Snorkeling and Diving: With its crystal clear waters and diverse marine life, snorkeling and diving are popular activities in Federated States of Micronesia. The Manta Ray Bay Resort in Yap offers scuba diving tours to see the giant manta rays, while Blue Lagoon Dive Resort in Chuuk offers tours to explore the shipwrecks.

  2. Traditional Feasts and Celebrations: Visitors can partake in traditional feasts and celebrations, showcasing the unique traditions, dance, and music of the local indigenous population. The Yapese people hold the Yap Day Festival in March each year, while the Pohnpeians hold Nahs Kular in June.

Week-Long Itinerary for Federated States of Micronesia

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the ancient ruins of Nan Madol
Day 2 Visit the Micronesia History and Culture Museum
Day 3 Discover the shipwrecks at Chuuk Lagoon
Day 4 Hike to the top of Mount Winipot
Day 5 Join a traditional feast and celebration
Day 6 Go snorkeling or diving in the blue hole
Day 7 Relax on the beaches at Kosrae

Food and Drink Scene of Federated States of Micronesia

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chicken Kelaguen: This local dish is a mix of grilled chicken, onions, coconut, and lemon juice.

  2. Poulet Tartare: A Yapese dish consisting of raw chicken marinated in lemon juice and coconut oil.

Local Beverages

  1. Awamori: A traditional rice liquor made in Yap and Okinawa.

  2. Kava: A traditional drink made from the roots of a plant in the pepper family. It is a popular social drink among the locals.

Where to Stay in Federated States of Micronesia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Federated States of Micronesia offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. The Manta Ray Bay Resort in Yap and Blue Lagoon Dive Resort in Chuuk are popular options for those looking for a diving holiday. The Kosrae Nautilus Resort in Kosrae is perfect for those looking for a beach holiday.

What to Buy in Federated States of Micronesia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Stone Money: A unique currency in Yap made of limestone disks used for trade and exchange.

  2. Local Crafts: From woven baskets to traditional dress, Micronesia has a rich tradition of creating handicrafts. Visitors can browse local markets and shops to find unique and authentic souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Federated States of Micronesia

The people of Federated States of Micronesia are proud of their rich cultural heritage, which is evident in their traditional dress, music, and dance. Visitors should always respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes at religious sites and removing shoes before entering someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Federated States of Micronesia

The best time to visit Federated States of Micronesia is between November and April when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so visitors should book accommodation and tours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Do’s and Don’ts of Federated States of Micronesia

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Research and book tours in advance.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Remove or damage coral reefs while diving or snorkeling.
  • Purchase or consume drugs or other illegal substances.

Safety and Health

Safety in Federated States of Micronesia

Federated States of Micronesia is a safe country for travelers. However, visitors should take necessary precautions, such as locking doors and windows, keeping valuables secure, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Federated States of Micronesia

Visitors to Federated States of Micronesia should ensure that they are up-to-date with routine vaccinations. Mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and Zika virus, are prevalent in the country, so visitors should take necessary precautions to avoid bites.

Getting to Federated States of Micronesia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Federated States of Micronesia

There are three international airports in Federated States of Micronesia: Chuuk International Airport, Pohnpei International Airport, and Yap International Airport. Delta Airlines and United Airlines offer flights to the country from major cities in the United States.

Bus Stations Near Federated States of Micronesia

There are no bus stations in Federated States of Micronesia, but visitors can take taxis or hire a car to explore the islands.

Other Options

Visitors can take ferries or boats between the islands of Federated States of Micronesia, but these are infrequent and can be unreliable.

How to Get Around in Federated States of Micronesia

The best way to get around Federated States of Micronesia is by hiring a car or taxi. Visitors can also take local buses, but these are infrequent and do not follow a set timetable. Visitors should research transportation options before arriving in the country.

Where to Go Next from Federated States of Micronesia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Federated States of Micronesia can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations such as Palau, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

Conclusion

Federated States of Micronesia is a hidden gem in the Pacific Ocean, with stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique traditions. This comprehensive travel guide has provided all the information visitors need to plan their perfect trip to this paradise.

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    Chuuk
    Kosrae
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