- The Federated States of Micronesia is four states, Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae, spread across 2,700 km of ocean
- Chuuk Lagoon is one of the world's greatest wreck-diving sites
- Pohnpei has the ancient stone city of Nan Madol, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Most visitors arrive on United's Island Hopper via Guam or Honolulu
- Airports
- Pohnpei (PNI), Chuuk (TKK), Yap (YAP), Kosrae (KSA)
- Flight time
- about 26-32h from London to Pohnpei, usually with two or three stops
- Best time to go
- December-April (drier season)
- Currency
- US dollar (USD)
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is made up of more than 600 islands in the western Pacific, grouped into four states, each with its own language and character. Yap keeps its stone money and traditional dress, Chuuk hides a fleet of sunken WWII ships in its lagoon, Pohnpei is lush and mountainous with mysterious ruins, and Kosrae is a quiet green island with few visitors.
It is one of the least visited countries on Earth, which is a big part of the attraction, but it takes time and money to get there. Cars drive on the right, and plugs are the US type A/B. Yap and Chuuk are 9 hours ahead of the UK in summer and 10 in winter, and Pohnpei and Kosrae an hour more. This is one of our Oceania guides covering where to go, when to visit, getting there and costs in 2026.
Entry requirements
British passport holders do not normally need a visa for a short tourist stay. An entry permit is usually granted on arrival for up to 30 days, with a passport valid for at least 120 days, an onward ticket and proof of funds. Each state may have its own requirements, and you may pass through immigration again when moving between states. Rules change, so check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.
Where to go in Micronesia
Pohnpei
The capital state, home to Palikir and the main town, Kolonia. Its star attraction is Nan Madol, a complex of basalt-walled islets built from around the 12th century, often called the Venice of the Pacific. Pohnpei also has waterfalls such as Kepirohi and Sahwartik, rainforest hikes, mangroves and surfing at Palikir Pass for experienced surfers.
Chuuk
Chuuk Lagoon, formerly Truk Lagoon, was a major Japanese naval base until a US attack in February 1944 sank dozens of ships and aircraft. Today the wrecks, many still holding trucks, tanks and aircraft parts, form one of the world's great wreck-diving sites. Most visitors dive from a liveaboard or one of a few dive resorts.
Yap
The most traditional state, known for rai, giant stone discs once quarried in Palau and still used in customary exchanges, often displayed in "stone money banks" in villages. Yap is also famous for year-round manta ray diving in its channels, and colourful dances and festivals such as Yap Day in March.
Kosrae
The easternmost state is a quiet, green island with the ruins of Lelu, coral reefs, mangrove channels and mountain hikes. It sees very few visitors and has a handful of small eco-lodges.
Best time to visit Micronesia
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Drier season (December-April) | Less rain, calmer seas and the best time for diving and travel |
| Wetter season (May-November) | Frequent heavy showers; typhoon risk, especially in Yap and Chuuk |
Temperatures stay around 27-31 °C all year, and Pohnpei is one of the wettest places on Earth.
The Island Hopper flight often stops at several islands en route, so plan flexible connections and check baggage rules for dive gear.
Getting to Micronesia from the UK
There are no direct flights. Most visitors fly to Guam, usually via Tokyo, Seoul or Manila, and connect with United Airlines, whose Island Hopper links Guam with Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae, Kwajalein, Majuro and Honolulu a few times a week. Yap is reached from Guam, sometimes via Palau. Nauru Airlines has also flown to Pohnpei from Nauru and Brisbane. Allow 26-32 hours from London. FSM combines with Palau or the Marshall Islands.
Getting around
The four states are linked only by air, mainly on the Island Hopper. On each island, taxis are cheap and plentiful in the main towns, and car hire is available on Pohnpei. Most dive and tour operators include transfers. Roads can be rough, and some sights need a local guide and permission from landowners.
Money and costs
FSM uses the US dollar. Hotels are limited and usually cost around US$100-200 a night; liveaboard diving in Chuuk is the big expense. A mid-range budget is roughly US$200-350 (about £150-270) per person per day, plus diving. ATMs are found in the main towns, but carry cash for villages, entry fees and small businesses. Tipping is not expected but appreciated on dive trips.
Frequently asked questions
Is Micronesia the same as the Federated States of Micronesia?
Not exactly. Micronesia is the wider region that also includes Palau, the Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and Guam. The Federated States of Micronesia is one independent country within it.
Do you need to be an experienced diver for Chuuk Lagoon?
Some shallower wrecks suit newly qualified divers, but many of the best are deep and penetration needs advanced training. Experienced divers get the most from it.
How long should I spend in Micronesia?
At least a week for one state, and around two weeks to see two or three, as flights are infrequent.
What should I wear in Micronesia?
Dress modestly, especially in Yap and in villages: women should cover their thighs. Ask before photographing people or entering village land.
Written by
Anna Beach, family & practical travel editor
Anna knows which beach has shade at 3pm and which car hire excess is a rip-off. She covers sun, islands, family trips and practical travel tips.
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