Ulithi Atoll
One of the largest atolls in the world, northeast of Yap, with turtle nesting islets.
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Ulithi is one of the largest atolls in the world by lagoon area, a ring of around forty islets northeast of Yap enclosing water big enough that a fleet anchored in it during the Second World War. A few hundred people live on four of the islets. Green turtles nest on the uninhabited ones and a community conservation programme monitors them. Custom rules on dress and behaviour are strict.
What you actually see
- The lagoon - one of the largest enclosed waters of any atoll.
- The islet ring - around forty motus around the rim.
- The turtle nesting - green turtles on the uninhabited islets, monitored locally.
- The community - a few hundred people on four of the islands.
When to go
December to April is the drier season. Flights and field trip ships are irregular and shift without notice. Turtle nesting peaks in the middle of the year.
Honest expectations
Access is by irregular small plane or ship and being stranded is normal. Yapese outer island custom on dress and behaviour is strict and non-negotiable. There is no accommodation beyond community arrangements.
Nearby
Yap is southwest, and Fais is east.
What to pack for Ulithi Atoll
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.