Pohnpei Island, FSM

Ponape (Pohnpei) is one of the four states in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), and among the Senyavin Islands (part of the larger Caroline Islands group). Palikir, the FSM's capital, is located on Pohnpei. Pohnpei island is the largest, highest, most populated, and most developed single island in the FSM.

Ponape has lush vegetation and abundant rainfall washing into streams, rivers and tumbling waterfalls. Unlike other Micronesian islands it has tropical jungles, mist covered mountains, mangrove swamps and exotic flora. The fishing and diving around the island is superb with hard coral reefs and spectacular drop offs.

Visitors can see remnants of an ancient Pohnpeian civilization including Nan Madol ruins, a manmade city with ocean-filled channels which once housed a thriving, royal civilization. Its huge basalt pillars form the residences of kings and sorcerers.

Things to See and Do

* Nan Madol ruins
* Pohnpei cultural centre
* Liduduhniap Twin Waterfalls
* Spanish Wall - Kolonia
* Keprohi Waterfalls

Cruise Season – Jan – Dec
Currency – United States dollar (USD)
Language – Pohnpeian, English
Land Area – 181 km²
Population – 62,000 approx
Electricity –
Time – GMT plus eleven hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 691

Port Location – The main port is located at Kolonia, in the north of the island.

Transport Links – Micronesia can be reached by air from Honolulu, Manila and Guam (flights arrive there from the USA, Australia and Asia). A Circle Micronesia air pass starting in Los Angeles or San Francisco, or a Visit Micronesia pass originating in Guam, will let you skip around the islands.

Pohnpei has a local carriers that flies to the outer islands, but boat is the cheapest means of travel between islands.