Kiribati - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: The people of Kiribati live by Christian values, which have a strong influence on traditional life.

Possession of, or trafficking in, narcotics is a serious offence and can result in heavy prison sentences.

In Kiribati, it is customary, and more polite, to address people by their first name.

Office hours are Mon–Fri 0800–1230 and 1330–1615.

Immigration and customs: Most nationals require a visa and a return ticket to visit Kiribati, although visitors from the UK do not need a visa provided they hold an onward ticket and have sufficient funds for their visit. A one-month stay can be extended for a maximum of three months on a passport valid for that period. Visitors are advised to keep a copy of the photopage of their passport on them at all times and to store their passport in a hotel safe.

Single parents travelling with children should hold documentation confirming evidence of parental responsibility.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate will be required by those arriving from infected countries.

There is a strict quarantine regime for the import of food, plants, animal and fish products.

Visitors going on to Australia and New Zealand must be aware that there are strict import regulations relating to straw products and seashells. A phytosanitary certificate will be required on products bought in Kiribati.

Travel within the country:Traffic drives on the left. Car hire is available on Tarawa and Christmas Island only, and an international driving permit is required. Minibuses run frequently; taxis operate on Tarawa only.

Air Kiribati operates an internal scheduled service to the outer islands from Tarawa.

There are several passenger ferries between the smaller islands, and boats can be hired locally.

The lagoon in South Tarawa is not safe for swimming because of pollution. Elsewhere, visitors should beware of rip tides.

Travel health: Medical facilities at Tarawa are modest, and visitors are advised to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the cost of medical evacuation by air.

Inoculation against diphtheria, Hepatitis A, tetanus and sometimes typhoid are recommended. Dengue fever is prevalent, so visitors should bring insect repellent and cover up with suitable clothing to prevent insect bites.

Prescription medicines should be in their original containers, clearly labelled to avoid confusion.

Only bottled or boiled water should be used for drinking, cleaning teeth and making ice.

Money: Currency can be exchanged at the Bank of Kiribati or at local hotels. Credit cards can be used, although Mastercard and Visa have limited acceptance. There are ATMs at the Bank of Kiribati/ANZ in Betio, Bairiki and Bikenibeu. Travellers cheques in Australian dollars are the most acceptable. Banking hours are Mon–Fri 0930–1500.

There were 3,037 tourist arrivals in 2005.