The Federated States of Micronesia aggregates four distinct island states – Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae are spread out over nearly 3000 km of water. Each island state has its own culture, landscapes, and things to see.
Yap is known for its giant stone money (weighing up to 8000 pounds) as well its traditional lifestyle centred on the villages. There are outstanding diving opportunities with the manta rays (the world’s best for that).
Chuuk is the most populous of the four island states. There are a number of Japanese buildings dating back to its use as Japan’s main South Pacific base during WW II. Chuuk’s main attractions are the legendary diving opportunities among the wrecks of the Japanese fleet (60 ships and 275 airplanes).
Verdant and rainy Pohnpei has some excellent scenery in the form of beautiful waterfalls and the view from Sokehs Rock. The main reason to come to Pohnpei though is to see the archaeological site of Nan Madol. This “Venice of the Pacific” was once the religious and political centre of Pohnpei and contains numerous artificial islands surrounded by canals.
Kosrae is quiet and little developed with excellent tropical scenery and diving opportunities. You can wander among the 15th century feudal capital ruins at Lelu or dive to see the wrecks and marine life around the islands.