Welcome to Marshall Islands

From reminders of its nuclear testing history to museums dedicated to local culture, the Marshall Islands are a unique Pacific destination. Come for the diving – drop-offs, coral heads and World War II shipwrecks – then stay for the white-sand beaches and friendly atmosphere.

Pick up a handcrafted kili handbag, made by former residents of Bikini and dance the night away in Ebeye. Go island hopping in Maloelap and Mili atolls. Or take a day trip to Eneko Island.

Unique Facts

• The Marshall islands are made up of approximately 1,225 islands and islets. Furthermore, the islands are made up of 870 reef systems and 160 species of coral.
• The islands were used for nuclear testing for years. To clean up from the test contamination, a concrete tomb (“The Tomb”) was built over the radioactive soil. it’s the size of 35 Olympic-sized swimming pools. One of the former islands, Elugelab, was actually blown up by the US Armed Forces during a hydrogen bomb test.
• The Polynesian rat is the only land mammal that is indigenous to the Marshall Islands.
• The common greeting among islanders is “Iakwe,” which means “You are a rainbow.”
• Bikini Atoll is one of the world’s top diving destinations. It’s possible to see numerous wrecks, including a battleship and aircraft carrier, in the lagoon.

Language

The Marshall Islands’ official languages are Marshallese and English.

When To Go

The best time to go to the Marshall Islands is between December and April. October and November are the wettest months and July and August are the hottest. The calmest diving conditions are during the rainy season.

Airports

Marshall Islands International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting the Marshall Islands: Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need a Hepatitis B vaccine.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 120V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: United States Dollar

Getting Around

There is one paved road on Majuro Island. It is not well-signed and there are no traffic lights. Be aware of animals and children on the roadways.

There is no public transportation in the Marshall islands. There are shared public taxis available.

Driver’s License

A temporary driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

The U.S. Embassy in Majuro
Located on the ocean-side of the island’s major road, approximately two miles east of the airport (there is no street address).
P.O. Box 1379
Majuro, MH 96960-1379
Telephone: (692) 247-4011
Emergency after-hours: (692)-455 8213
Fax: (692) 247-4012
MAJConsular@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Marshall Islands Visitors Authority
Delap-Uliga-Djarrit
Majuro Atoll 96960
Tel: +692 625-6482

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 625-4144
Police, Fire: 625-3233

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in the Marshall Islands. The most common crimes are break-ins and burglary from homes, hotel rooms and vehicles. Take standard safety precautions and do not leave belongings unattended.