NAURU, KIRIBATI, MARSHALL ISLANDS, FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA, AND PALAU
Tour to Micronesia
March 8 - 20, 2027 (upon request. Dates can be changed)
Micronesia

Dates: 8–20 March 2027 (upon request. Dates can be changed)

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Number of participants: 2–12

Cost per person: on request

All included, except:

- International flights to Nauru, Nauru – Bairiki (Kiribati), Bairiki (Kiribati) – Majuro (Marshall Islands), Majuro (Marshall Islands) – Pohnpei (Federated States of Micronesia), Pohnpei (Federated States of Micronesia) – Koror (Palau), and out of Koror
- Visa formalities (Nauru, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Palau — no visas required for Russian citizens. Transit via Brisbane requires an Australian transit visa; a flight from Pohnpei to Koror via Guam requires a US visa; transit via Taipei requires a Taiwan visa)
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners (unless stated in the itinerary under "meals included")
- Medical insurance

Estimated cost of Moscow – Brisbane flight: US$750 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Brisbane – Nauru flight: US$750 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Nauru – Bairiki (Kiribati) flight: US$300 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Bairiki (Kiribati) – Majuro (Marshall Islands) flight: US$300 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Majuro (Marshall Islands) – Pohnpei (Federated States of Micronesia) flight: US$550 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Pohnpei (Federated States of Micronesia) – Koror (Palau) flight: US$900 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Estimated cost of Koror – Moscow flight: US$1,300 (typically purchased independently; we provide guidance).

Single supplement: on request


TRAVEL PROGRAM:  tour to Micronesia

Day 1. 8 March 2027 (Monday). ARRIVAL IN NAURU

Welcome to Nauru! The landing alone is an adventure in itself, one that's hard to put into words. It feels as though we're descending onto a giant pancake, lost in the endless blue of the Central Pacific: wherever you look, nothing but water stretching to the horizon. This tiny country is most often remembered for its phosphates — the mining that once lifted its economy and then destroyed it — and for the infamous refugee detention centre leased by Australia. Yet Nauru remains one of the smallest and least touristy nations on the planet: only about two hundred visitors a year!
Once we clear passport control, we'll be met in the arrivals hall and driven to the hotel to check in and drop off our bags. Then comes dinner at the Bay restaurant (paid on the spot), where we'll head together with our guide. The menu features local seafood with a subtle Asian touch. It's the perfect evening to begin our acquaintance with Nauru.

Recommended flight: direct flight Nauru Airlines ON-2, departing Brisbane at 12:30, arriving in Nauru at 19:15 on 8 March.

Accommodation included: Ewa Lodge or similar
Meals included: -


Day 2. 9 March 2027 (Tuesday). INLAND DISTRICTS (TOPSIDE)

This morning we'll head down to a local café for breakfast and other dishes (paid separately). Be sure to stock up on water and snacks.
After that, we'll venture deep into Nauru. Our first stop is the quiet, green Buada Lagoon — the island's only body of water. Nestled in the lower central part of Nauru, it is surrounded on all sides by thick palms and bush. Milkfish once thrived here, and locals used to hold traditional spearfishing competitions. Swimming in the lagoon, however, is no longer recommended.
We'll move on and take a look at the old railway tracks — once used to haul phosphates from the Topside plateau straight to the port. Then we'll head deeper into the forest, where trees weave through sharp limestone pinnacles. These spires once lay hidden underground until the surrounding phosphorus was washed away. It's a good spot to catch a brief rest in the shade and learn about the German and Japanese occupation of Nauru. Interestingly, during German rule the island was called Pleasant Island.
The first sombre site on our route is a former German communications centre, later used as gas chambers for disobedient locals. Pressing on through the bush, we'll come across prison cells — both above ground and underground — which became part of a prison complex under the Japanese.
Next up is a twin-barrel anti-aircraft gun on Command Ridge. Depending on the weather and road conditions, we'll tackle it by vehicle or on foot, then make our way to two machine-gun nests on the hillsides. For those unafraid of heights and keen on adventure, there's an option to climb up to the so-called "Great Japanese Wall" — from there, a stunning view opens up over the lunar landscape of pinnacles and the new Chinese solar farms. Down below, among the greenery, lie the wreckage of bombed aircraft and other relics of the Pacific War.
Along the way, we'll drive past the phosphate mine — still operational, but at limited capacity, extracting only second-grade phosphate. The equipment is heavily rusted, and phosphate dust hangs in the air, causing serious health issues for those living nearby. We'll then pass the former Regional Processing Centre — a site still surrounded by humanitarian controversy — as well as the Parliament House and the Supreme Court.
Afterwards, the guide will take us back to the hotel. Optionally, we can have a late lunch and then spend the afternoon wading through the shallows among the pinnacles (reef shoes a must, of course) or swimming in a recently formed boat harbour where locals already splash around. There are plenty of fishermen about, and if we're curious, we can always take a look at their daily catch.
Toward evening, one of the Nauru Airlines flights lands (if there's a flight that day) — and many islanders gather by the runway to watch the event. At such times, the roads around the airport are closed off due to the powerful jet blast, and we won't miss the chance to be part of this local tradition either.

Accommodation included: Ewa Lodge or similar
Meals included: -


Day 3. 10 March 2027 (Wednesday). FLIGHT TO KIRIBATI. TARAWA TOUR

This morning we arrive in Tarawa, the capital of Kiribati. We'll be met and taken straight to the hotel. After lunch, we'll head out on an orientation tour of South Tarawa — a local take on a "city tour" that helps us get our bearings and feel the rhythm of this bustling capital. The guide will show us the main sights, share fascinating details, and we'll stop for photos whenever we like.
We'll also take a walk through small islets and their village lanes today, getting closer to the traditional cultural practices of Kiribati — the ones still very much alive. We'll see with our own eyes how flower garlands are woven, how different kinds of mats are made from coconut fibre or pandanus leaves, how thatched roofing is crafted and leaves are prepared, how palm sap (toddy) is tapped — and that's only a small part of what we'll discover over the course of the day.
In the evening, we'll return to the hotel, where dinner awaits, followed by an electrifying dance performance in the i-Kiribati style.

Recommended flight: direct flight Nauru Airlines ON-23, departing Nauru at 05:15, arriving in Bairiki (Tarawa) at 06:30 in the morning.

Accommodation included: Utirerei Hotel or similar
Meals included: lunch, dinner


Day 4. 11 March 2027 (Thursday). WWII BATTLEFIELD TOUR

This day is dedicated to the memory of one of the fiercest chapters of the Pacific War. The Battle of Tarawa lasted only three days, yet in that time the US Marine Corps and Japanese forces clashed in a desperate fight for every scrap of strategically vital ground — with losses on both sides numbering in the thousands.
We will walk the most significant battle sites — among the remnants of fortifications, trenches, and scorched palm trees — where time seems to have stood still. We'll pause at the modern memorials erected in honour of the fallen soldiers: here we can stand in silence, read the names on the plaques, and pay tribute to the heroes whose fate is forever tied to this land.

Accommodation included: Utirerei Hotel or similar
Meals included: breakfast, lunch


Day 5. 12 March 2027 (Friday). FLIGHT TO THE MARSHALL ISLANDS, MAJURO. MAJURO TOUR WITH A VISIT TO THE MARITIME MUSEUM

A morning flight to Majuro, the capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. This archipelago, stretching halfway between Hawaii and Australia just north of the equator, comprises 29 atolls and 5 islands, divided into two chains — Ralik and Ratak. The Spanish discovered these lands back in the 16th century, and they received their present-day name in honour of British captain John Marshall. It's especially intriguing for us that Russian explorers Krusenstern and Kotzebue visited these shores in the early 19th century.
The island shores are blanketed in white coral sand, and the underwater world astounds with its vividness and diversity — it's no wonder Robert Louis Stevenson called this archipelago the "Pearl of the Pacific." Living for centuries on narrow strips of land between the boundless ocean and the tranquil lagoon, the locals became born fishermen and master seafarers.
The capital, Majuro, spreads across the atoll of the same name, made up of 64 tiny islets. The total land area here is less than ten square kilometres, yet the lagoon stretches for nearly 295 square kilometres. The town was founded in the late 19th century and remains the country's political and economic heart today. Among its key landmarks are the Capitol building, a coconut oil mill, a fish processing plant, and a clam farm.
Our immersion into local culture begins at the Alele Maritime Museum. Its collection holds truly unique artefacts: navigation charts woven from fibres and wood, which Micronesians once used on the open ocean; different types of canoes; traditional weapons and tools. But most astonishing of all are the navigation techniques based on the subtle observation of waves — an art taught from early childhood and passed down from generation to generation.

Recommended flight: direct flight Nauru Airlines ON-41, departing Bairiki at 08:05, arriving in Majuro at 09:20 in the morning.

Accommodation: Hotel Robert Reimers or similar
Meals included: breakfast


Day 6. 13 March 2027 (Saturday). CRUISE TO ENECO ISLAND

Today we're off on a cruise to the private island of Eneko — located right inside Majuro's lagoon, just half an hour from the capital. This secluded paradise with endless white beaches is made for snorkelling, swimming, and lazy picnics on the shore. And as the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, we'll be treated to a sunset of incredible beauty — the perfect end to the day.

Accommodation: Hotel Robert Reimers or similar
Питание включено: -


Day 7. 14 March 2027 (Sunday). ARRIVAL IN POHNPEI, FSM

A flight to Pohnpei — the largest and highest island in Micronesia, a true tropical paradise blanketed in lush greenery. The climate here is humid, and the rains feed countless rivers and picturesque waterfalls, such as Keprohi and Lidudunlap. The island literally breathes with life, and it's especially pleasing to know that its history is linked to Russia: it was our compatriot Fyodor Litke who discovered these shores in 1825.

Recommended flight: direct flight United Airlines UA-132, departing Majuro at 11:35, arriving in Pohnpei at 12:50.

Accommodation included: Ocean View Plaza Hotel or similar
Meals included: -


Day 8. 15 March 2027 (Monday). EXCURSION TO THE LOST CITY OF NAN MADOL

Today we journey to one of the world's most mysterious archaeological sites — the megalithic city of Nan Madol, often called the "Venice of the Pacific." This unique complex spreads across 92 artificial islets, threaded through with canals. Its monumental walls and platforms are built from giant basalt columns — some weighing up to 90 tons. How and why it was built remains a mystery to this day. Legend has it that the city was raised by two sorcerer brothers with the help of magic and a flying dragon.
We'll wander among the ancient ruins, examine the remains of palaces and temples half-hidden by water, and feel how the air here is steeped in mystique. The locals tend to steer clear of this place — they say the spirits of ancient rulers dwell here.

Accommodation included: Ocean View Plaza Hotel or similar
Meals included: -


Day 9. 16 March 2027 (Tuesday). CITY TOUR

After delving into the ancient mysteries of Nan Madol, we return to the modern part of the island to explore its main town. Our city tour begins with a stroll along the waterfront, where local fishermen unload their catch and the air is filled with salt spray and the scent of tropical flowers. We'll stop by the bustling market — here we'll be greeted by mounds of bright fruit, fresh fish, and handmade crafts: mats, shell jewellery, and carved wooden figurines.
The guide will lead us to the government buildings and the Catholic cathedral, built back in colonial times — their architecture recalls the island's turbulent history, where German, Japanese, and American heritage intertwine. We'll drive past the old Japanese administrative centre and then stop at the cultural centre, where we'll be treated to traditional dances and learn about the daily life of the locals.
Along the way, we'll see WWII relics — rusty guns and fortifications swallowed by the jungle — and come to understand just how many layers of history this green island holds. We'll finish the tour at a viewpoint with a panorama of the entire town, the lagoon, and the boundless ocean.

Accommodation included: Ocean View Plaza Hotel or similar
Meals included: -


Day 10. 17 March 2027 (Wednesday). HIKE TO SOKEHS RIDGE

The morning begins with a trip to the basalt rock of Sokehs — its outline strikingly resembles a human face, and locals believe it is a petrified ancient chief, forever guarding the island. Standing at its foot, we feel almost like mythical heroes ourselves.
Then we head deeper into the jungle toward Keprohi Waterfall. The path winds among palms and ferns, and the sound of water can be heard from afar. The waterfall plunges into a turquoise pool, and we'll gladly step into the cool water, savouring the freshness and the silence.
After lunch, we'll take a boat to Black Coral Island. Donning masks and snorkels, we'll be greeted underwater by schools of bright fish and peculiar black corals growing among the white sand. We'll swim in this underwater kingdom, losing all track of time.
By evening, we return to Pohnpei.

Accommodation included: Ocean View Plaza Hotel or similar
Meals included: -


Day 11. 18 March 2027 (Thursday). FLIGHT TO KOROR, PALAU

A flight to Koror. Welcome to Palau — an archipelago of 328 islands in the Philippine Sea, where ancient legends intertwine with modern life. This place is rightly called an underwater wonder of the world: its waters are home to 1,500 species of fish and 130 species of sharks, and its history stretches back to the 3rd millennium BC.

Recommended flight: United Airlines flights with a layover in Guam (US visa required!), departing Pohnpei at 14:55 on 18 March, arriving in Koror at 00:50 on 19 March.

Accommodation included: Palau Pacific Resort or similar
Meals included: -


Day 12. 19 March 2027 (Friday). CAPITAL, MEGALITHS, AND THE HERITAGE OF PALAU

We dedicate this day entirely to the culture and history of Palau — from modern symbols of statehood to the mysteries of ancient civilisations.
We begin at the Etpison Museum — a true treasure trove of island heritage. Here we'll be greeted by old maps, traditional fishing traps, exquisite shells, and a collection of canoes, each telling its own story. The museum shop offers unique souvenirs, especially items crafted from local redwood.
Then we'll head to the Belau National Museum, where the life of the islanders across different eras unfolds before us in all its richness. The main exhibit is outdoors: a traditional communal house, or "Bai," which once served as the heart of the village and a symbol of male strength.
But the most fascinating part awaits us on the island of Babeldaob. We'll walk along the Badrulchau Stone Pathway, where 37 ancient megaliths stand in a row, some weighing several tons. Their origin remains a mystery, and the locals consider this place a powerful "place of power" — we'll feel it ourselves as we touch the sun-warmed stones.
Next, we'll make our way up to Ngerulmud — one of the most unusual capitals in the world. Its Capitol building, constructed with Taiwan's support, looks like an exact replica of Washington's Capitol, yet rises amid tropical jungle, creating a surreal contrast between might and wild nature.
Everywhere on the island, we are accompanied by evidence of a rich culture: ancient stone pathways, terraces, and the famous men's houses, or "Bai" — genuine architectural gems of Micronesia. We'll see the carved Dilukai figures above the entrances: they symbolise fertility and, according to belief, protect the house from evil spirits.

Optional: morning or daytime doors-off flight over Palau.

Accommodation included: Palau Pacific Resort or similar
Meals included: breakfast


Day 13. 20 March 2027 (Saturday). SECRETS OF THE MANGROVE FORESTS AND ROCK ISLANDS

Today we'll get acquainted with the legendary Rock Islands and set off on a kayaking adventure. We'll glide through turquoise waters among ancient rocky islets, weave between dense mangrove thickets, and slip into mysterious marine lakes. Along the way, remarkable discoveries await us: we'll find the ruins of ancient settlements with stone pathways and ritual platforms — traces of the first inhabitants of these lands.
We'll then venture deeper into caves, where bizarre stalactites and stalagmites create the feeling of an underground kingdom. On the hillsides, we'll encounter Japanese forts and an old lighthouse — silent witnesses of World War II, still holding the echo of war.
In the afternoon — transfer to the airport for international departure.

Recommended flight: China Airlines, departing 20 March at 18:10 to Taipei (Taiwan), layover 3h 10min (visa required for Russian citizens), then Emirates, departing Taipei at 00:20 on 21 March to Dubai, layover 3h 5min, then departing Dubai at 09:20 on 21 March, arriving in Moscow at 13:55 on 21 March.

Accommodation included: -
Meals included: breakfast


* The operator bears no financial responsibility in the event of changes to flight schedules that may be introduced by airlines. Air traffic in the region is unstable, please take this into account when planning your trip.

** The order of visits and excursions may be altered according to local conditions, such as flight schedules, the security situation, etc. If for any reason certain visits and/or excursions cannot be carried out due to external circumstances, they will be replaced as soon as possible.

*** The expedition participant must respect the cultures of local tribes and communities, be aware of the trip's objectives and possible itinerary changes depending on flight schedules, weather conditions, security conditions, and any other reasons, be in good physical shape, and be able to adapt to a new environment and culture.