Pohnpei is geared for the outdoor lover. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, kayaking venues, great snorkeling sites and even difficult challenges of weeklong treks high in the rain forest.
Pohnpei is the largest and tallest island in the Federated States of Micronesia. The island brings together natural attractions and cultural experiences that are uniquely Pacific Micronesia. Its high peaks along a razorback of tropical mountains get plenty of rainfall annually, and create more than 40 rivers that feed the lush upper rain forest and create waterfalls. These gushers range from pleasant to spectacular. They are a refreshing and breathtaking experience for those venturing to the base of the falls. There is camping at some sites so adventurers can listen to the tumble of falling water while sleeping under the tropical sky. The streams are great for cooling off after a hike to historical and ancient sites in the hills.
Pohnpei provides great rewards for those wanting to get out and enjoy the jungle. There are no dangerous animals or reptiles in the jungles here. Shy deer, an array of birdlife and endemic plant species are all found. The jungles also hold ruin sites of World War II history and of ancient Pohnpei. Relics and glyphs can be seen on day treks to the famous and not-so-famous locales. The upland forest is seldom visited and thus a special experience.
Pohnpei has one of the most varied marine environments in Micronesia. The mangrove forest that surrounds the island are natural incubators that harbor more than marine life. Several sea birds nest here and monitor lizards and big geckoes look for small crabs and other food along the muddy, root woven floor of the mangrove swamp.
Fishing and diving around the island is superb. The island's hard coral reefs and colorful dropoffs are enchanting. Sea anemones, soft corals and colorful gorgonian sea fans dot the walls. Sharks, sea turtles and manta rays are seen at many sites around Pohnpei.
A short boat trip can be made to two neighboring atolls, Ant and Pakin, that exude the aura of paradise unspoiled. Here, the true meaning of pristine diving comes to the fore. Whether it be riding a raging current out to sea through an island pass or exploring a deep fan laden chasm, the atolls are a fantastic experience.
Kayakers will enjoy the intricate mazes through the mangroves and also around Nan Madol, the "Venice of the Pacific."
Much is still to be learned about the mysterious Nan Madol ruins. This man-made city with ocean-filled channels once housed a thriving, royal civilization. Huge basalt pillars form the residences of kings and sorcerers. These remnants of an ancient Pohnpeian civilization are still being studied and explored. They can be visited as part of an overall nature tour or studied in depth all day with one of Pohnpei's knowledgeable history guides.
Ten Great Outdoor Adventures in Pohnpei 1. Nan Kawad 2. Pohnlehr 3. Pahn Takai 4. Petroglyphs 5. Nan Madol
6. Pahnsile Falls 7. Lehn Paipohn 8. Dole Tikitik 9. Pohndolap 10. Sokehs Rock
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