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Travel Essentials › Marshall Islands

Travel Essentials

Marshall Islands: What To Know Before You Go

Plugs: Type A and B, 120 V. Emergency: Police 625-8666, Ambulance 625-4111. Tipping: Not expected; a small tip for guides and drivers is welcome. Tap water: Drink bottled or boiled water; tap water may not be safe, especially on outer atolls.

Open The Marshall Islands Trip Kit

Plugs And Power

Type A and B, 120 V

Emergency Numbers

Police625-8666
Ambulance625-4111

Tipping

Not expected; a small tip for guides and drivers is welcome.

Water And Health

Tap water
Drink bottled or boiled water; tap water may not be safe, especially on outer atolls
Vaccines
Routine vaccines, hepatitis A, typhoid; hepatitis B for some travelers
Malaria
None; the Marshall Islands are malaria-free

Apps To Download Before You Go

Customs And Etiquette

Greetings. Say "Yokwe" with a smile and a gentle handshake. Women and men both shake hands, but keep touch light and friendly.

Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees in towns and villages; swimwear is for the beach only.

Sunday is for church. Most shops close and people attend church; avoid loud activity and keep dress neat.

Ask permission. Land belongs to families and is overseen by chiefs; ask before entering private land, taking photos or visiting outer atolls.

Safety And Scams

Generally safe and friendly, but there are some petty thefts, alcohol-related incidents, and limited medical care.

Overpriced taxis. Agree the fare before getting in; the standard Majuro ride is a flat fare.

Unlicensed boat trips. Use operators with life jackets; weather and currents can change quickly.

Women travelers. Dress modestly and avoid isolated areas at night; unwanted attention can occur.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Legal · Use Caution

Same-sex activity has been legal since 2005. The society is conservative and religious, so keep public affection low-key.

What Things Cost

Coffee (café)$3$3
Local bus or metro ride$1$1
Mid-range restaurant meal$15$15
Hostel bed / budget room (night)$70$70
Mid-range hotel (night)$130$130
Daily budget, mid-range traveler$120$120

2026-09

Best Time To Visit

December to April is the drier season with steady trade winds. May to November is wetter, and high tides can flood low areas of Majuro around the new and full moons.

Phrases