Micronesia
Pohnpei International Airport (PNI) is the sole international airport on the island, located on an artificial islet north of Kolonia. United Airlines operates the main connections, including the "Island Hopper" flight connecting Honolulu (HNL) to Guam (GUM) with stops in Majuro, Kwajalein, Kosrae, and Pohnpei. Direct flights between Guam and Pohnpei also exist.
Caroline Islands Air conducts domestic flights within the FSM (Chuuk, Kosrae, Yap), useful for inter-island journeys. No direct flights from major global hubs outside the Pacific region; all international visitors connect through Honolulu or Guam. Flight schedules are generally consistent year-round. Prices may fluctuate, so booking flights well in advance is highly recommended to secure dates and fares.
PNI is a small airport with basic facilities: a small waiting area, limited food vendors, basic restrooms. Currency exchange limited.
Public Wi-Fi access at the airport is limited or non-existent. Plan to be offline upon arrival.
Taxis readily available outside terminal ($5-$10 USD to Kolonia). Many hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfers.
Major international chains absent; local companies operate.
Highly recommended for unpaved, muddy side roads.
Advisable during peak periods or for specific vehicles.
Pohnpei has no formal long-distance bus system. An informal "shared taxi" system functions, where private cars pick up passengers along the main circumferential road. Mainly used by locals, it provides budget-friendly travel. Find them mainly around Kolonia.
A valid driving license from your home country is generally accepted. An International Driving Permit (IDP) helps if your license is not in English. Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 years old. A credit card for a deposit is also necessary. Local agencies and some hotels offer car rentals. Expect older models.
Main road paved with occasional potholes. Side roads to attractions unpaved, narrow, rough, muddy.
Animals (pigs, dogs, chickens) roam roads. Drive defensively. Low visibility in heavy rain. Avoid driving long distances at night.
Generally ample and free at attractions and hotels. Informal parking in Kolonia.
Pohnpei occasionally receives small expedition cruise ships, docking at Kolonia's main port. Passengers disembark for shore excursions. Limited inter-island passenger ferry services exist within the FSM, mainly for local travel and cargo, not common for international tourists.
Rivers are not a main mode of arrival for tourists. Local boats are sometimes used to access specific interior areas or waterfalls via rivers, specifically after heavy rains. These tours are usually part of a guided experience. Water transportation is important for exploring Pohnpei's lagoon and outer islands, including Nan Madol (by boat through mangroves), uninhabited atolls (Ant, Pakain), and best reef sites. Arrange boat trips through your hotel, dive shop, or tour operator.
Your health and safety are paramount when traveling to Pohnpei. No specific vaccinations are typically required for entry.
Pohnpei State Hospital in Kolonia serves as the main medical facility, providing basic services. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Guam or Hawaii may be necessary (can be costly).
Tap water generally not safe to drink. Stick to bottled, boiled, or filtered water. Exercise caution with street food; choose freshly cooked, hot food.
Low crime rate. Petty theft can occur. Be aware of surroundings, secure belongings. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Typhoons (May-Nov), tsunamis (rare but possible), localized flooding from heavy rains, sharp coral/marine life on reefs. Wear water shoes.
Travel insurance is highly recommended. Ensure policy coverage for medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation (critical given limited local facilities), trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and specific adventure activities (diving, surfing).
