Kiribati’s atolls are usually thought of as lagoons and reef flats, but geological shifts and reef rock have left a few modest cave features that tell a quieter part of the islands’ story. These spots are often tucked into coastal cliffs or raised reef and reflect local sea-level and reef histories.
There are 2 Caves in Kiribati, ranging from Buakonikai Cave to Te Runga Cave. For each, the data are organized as Island/Atoll,Coordinates (lat,long),Size & type (m/type), which you’ll find below.
How easy is it to visit the caves in Kiribati?
Access varies by atoll: some caves are reached by short walks from villages, others require boat trips, tide planning, or local permission. Expect minimal visitor infrastructure — bring basic safety gear, check tides, and coordinate with local guides or authorities before attempting entry.
Do these caves matter for wildlife or local communities?
Yes — caves can host bat colonies, invertebrates and occasional nesting birds, and some hold cultural or historical value for nearby communities. Respecting access rules and avoiding disturbance helps protect both wildlife and cultural ties.
Caves in Kiribati
| Name | Island/Atoll | Coordinates (lat,long) | Size & type (m/type) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Te Runga Cave | Banaba Island | 0.85, 169.53 | Size unknown/Solution cave |
| Buakonikai Cave | Banaba Island | 0.86, 169.54 | Size unknown/Solution cave |
Images and Descriptions
Te Runga Cave
A historically significant cave in Banaba’s central plateau. Mentioned in historical accounts as a water source and refuge, it is located within the heavily mined, rugged karst interior. Its exact current state and accessibility are unknown due to landscape changes from phosphate mining.
Buakonikai Cave
A traditional cave site near Buakonikai village, part of Banaba’s unique raised limestone geology. This and other caves on the island were culturally important but have been heavily impacted or destroyed by a century of phosphate mining, making them difficult to locate today.
