Pohnpei's Rainforest and Waterfalls

Pohnpei, the largest island of the Federated States of Micronesia and the seat of its capital, is a lush, mountainous emerald jewel, its rainforest-cloaked interior one of the wettest places on earth. This verdant tropical wilderness of jungle-clad peaks, dense rainforest and mangrove coasts is threaded with tumbling waterfalls, from the beautiful, easily reached Kepirohi Falls to remote jungle cascades, and crowned by the dramatic basalt monolith of Sokehs Rock rising above the harbour. Rich in birdlife and endemic plants, ringed by coral reefs, and home to the ancient ruins of Nan Madol, Pohnpei rewards hikers, nature lovers and the adventurous with pristine, green Pacific beauty.

What you actually see

• Kepirohi Falls - the beautiful, accessible jungle waterfall.
• Sokehs Rock - the dramatic basalt monolith above the harbour.
• The rainforest - the lush, mountainous jungle interior.
• The reefs and mangroves - the coral reefs and mangrove coasts.

When to go

December to April tends to be marginally drier, though Pohnpei is famously one of the rainiest places on earth, so rain is a constant companion and part of its lush character year-round; waterfalls are full and spectacular, and the jungle at its greenest. Hiking and waterfall trails can be muddy, so a guide and sturdy footwear help.

Honest expectations

Pohnpei is remote, reached by long flights, with basic tourist facilities, and its famously heavy rainfall means mud, humidity and frequent downpours that can dampen hiking and views; the interior is dense jungle best explored with local guides. For the reward of a pristine, lush emerald island of rainforest, waterfalls and dramatic peaks, ringed by reefs and home to the wonders of Nan Madol, though, Pohnpei is a verdant and rewarding tropical wilderness for the adventurous.

Nearby

The ruins of Nan Madol and the reefs of Pohnpei are within reach.