Pohnpei is one of the four states of Micronesia and is the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia. It is also the country’s largest and tallest island at 884 m high, 21 km wide and roughly circular in shape. Pohnpei combines the stereotypical Pacific Ocean island allure with lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and abundant precipitation, exceeding 7,600 mm (300 in) per year in certain mountainous locations. This amount of rainfall makes it one of the wettest places on Earth and is directly related to the plethora of biodiversity found in Pohnpei.
Unlike other Micronesian islands Pohnpei has tropical jungles, mist-covered mountains and one of the healthiest mangrove swamps and exotic flora in the Pacific.
The unique Nan Madol archaeological site is a mysterious city constructed in a lagoon, consisting of a series of small artificial islands linked by a network of canals. It was once home to a thriving royal civilization and archaeologists and engineers are endeavoring to learn more about the Saudeleur Dynasty which occupied the island city until 1628. Nonetheless, many questions remain unanswered about the ancient stone city. Nan Madol is often called "Atlantis", the "eighth wonder of the world," or the "Venice of the Pacific".
INCLUDED EXPEDITION:
Nan Madol
Drive around the edge of Pohnpei, the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia. Our destination is the phenomenal Nan Madol. Our visit will involve walking through dense foliage and then traveling by small local boat around the perimeter of the ancient complex. The remains of this once impressive royal complex are at the mercy of the tide and the means of our visit will be determined by the depth of water during our visit.