“Vast Marine Wilderness”
UNESCO World Heritage siteStunning natural wonder
As one of the largest marine protected areas in the world, PIPA is a pristine oceanic wilderness encompassing diverse coral archipelagos and submerged volcanic seamounts. It is an unparalleled destination for marine biologists and environmental students to study untouched coral ecosystems and the impacts of global climate change in a highly controlled environment. Historically, these islands have seen minimal human habitation, preserving their ecological integrity. The best season to visit is during the drier months from May to November. Tourist tip: Access is extremely limited and requires organizing a specialized expedition or liveaboard dive boat with explicit permits from the Kiribati government.