Travel Essentials › Kiribati
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Type I, 240 V. Emergency: One number for everything 999, Police 992, Ambulance 994, Fire 993. Tipping: Not expected or customary. Tap water: Drink bottled or boiled water; tap water on Tarawa is not safe.
Type I, 240 V
| One number for everything | 999 |
| Police | 992 |
| Ambulance | 994 |
| Fire | 993 |
Not expected or customary.
Greetings. Greet with "Mauri" with a gentle handshake and a smile. Keep greetings calm and friendly, and avoid loud or very physical hellos.
Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees in public. Swimwear is for the beach or resort only, and women swim in shorts and a t-shirt.
Maneaba etiquette. Enter a meeting house with respect: take off shoes, avoid walking upright above seated elders, and ask where to sit.
Sunday and church. Sundays are for church and family; many shops close. Keep a low profile and ask before taking photos.
Kiribati is generally safe, but petty theft occurs on South Tarawa, alcohol-related incidents happen, and medical services are limited.
Overpriced minibus or taxi rides. Agree on a fare before you get in, since taxis have no meters.
Unlicensed fishing or boat trips. Use trusted operators; safety equipment is often basic.
Women travelers. Dress modestly and avoid walking alone after dark; unwanted attention can occur.
Criminalized
Sex between men is illegal under the Penal Code, with up to 14 years in prison, though enforcement is not reported. Keep a very low profile.
| Coffee (café) | AUD 4 | $2.60 |
| Local bus or metro ride | AUD 1 | $0.65 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | AUD 20 | $13 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | AUD 70 | $45 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | AUD 180 | $115 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | AUD 150 | $100 |
2026-09
May to October is the drier season with steady trade winds. November to April is wetter, hotter and more humid, with occasional storms.