Kiribati sits scattered across the central Pacific as a string of low-lying atolls and reef islands where ocean processes and traditional island life meet; its remoteness makes it an important place for marine biodiversity and for studying how communities adapt to changing sea levels. The country’s islands are often discussed in terms of their ecology, cultural heritage and the challenges they face from climate and development pressures.
There are 1 World Heritage Sites in Kiribati, ranging from Phoenix Islands Protected Area. For each entry the data are shown as Inscription year,Location,Significance — you’ll find below.
Why was the Phoenix Islands Protected Area inscribed as a World Heritage Site?
The Phoenix Islands Protected Area was inscribed in 2010 for its vast, near-pristine marine ecosystems that include healthy coral reefs, diverse pelagic species and important seabird colonies; its size and ecological integrity make it a strong example of central Pacific atoll and open-ocean biodiversity, and the listing recognizes both its scientific value and the need for continued conservation and management despite its remote location.
World Heritage Sites in Kiribati
| Name | Inscription year | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Islands Protected Area | 2010 | Kanton (Canton) Island;Kanton village;-2.70,-171.67 | Pristine coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity protected in vast ocean area. |
Images and Descriptions
Phoenix Islands Protected Area
An enormous protected marine area covering over 400,000 km² of central Pacific, PIPA conserves intact coral atolls, seamounts and abundant pelagic life. Extremely remote—visits require permits and long travel from Tarawa; mainly visited by researchers, divers and adventurous eco-tourists.
