Budget guide to Micronesia

Aryan Sharma

• 2 min read
Budget guide to Micronesia

Micronesia (specifically the Federated States of Micronesia, or FSM) is one of the most remote and rewarding regions to visit, but it can be notoriously expensive due to limited flight options and imported goods.

However, if you lean into local stays and stick to one or two islands rather than hopping across the entire region, you can manage a budget-friendly trip. Here is a 7-day itinerary focusing on Pohnpei, the most affordable and accessible state for a first-timer.

Pre-Trip Budget Tips

  • The Flight: The most expensive part. Look for the "Island Hopper" flight by United Airlines, but to save money, try to book segments individually or fly during the low season (April, June, or September).
  • Currency: The US Dollar ($) is the official currency. Cash is king here; carry small bills as ATMs can be unreliable and credit card fees are high.
  • Accommodation: Avoid luxury dive resorts. Look for locally-run guesthouses like Yvonne’s Hotel or Cliff Rainbow Hotel in Kolonia.

7-Day Pohnpei Budget Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Kolonia Orientation

  • Stay: Check into a guesthouse in Kolonia (approx. $50–$80/night).
  • Activity: Walk around Kolonia town. Visit the Spanish Wall and the German Bell Tower, remnants of colonial history that are free to view.
  • Food: Eat at the Kolonia Market. Grab fresh tropical fruits and "bento" style local lunches (fish and rice) for under $10.

Day 2: The "Venice of the Pacific" (Nan Madol)

  • Activity: Take a shared taxi or hire a local driver to the Nan Madol ruins.
  • Budget Tip: Instead of a $150 private boat tour, go by land. You’ll pay small "gate fees" (approx. $3–$7) to different landowners along the path, which is much cheaper and supports the local community directly.
  • Evening: Relax at a local bar in Kolonia like the Ocean View for a sunset drink.

Day 3: Waterfalls & Jungle Treks

  • Activity: Hike to Kepirohi Waterfall. It’s a stunning 60-foot basalt waterfall just a 5-minute walk from the main road.
  • Budget Tip: Entrance is usually around $3–$5. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Kitti 6 Waterfalls hike is world-class but requires a local guide (negotiate a rate around $30–$50 for the day).

Day 4: Sokehs Rock Panoramic View

  • Activity: Hike Sokehs Rock. It’s the island's most iconic landmark. The trail is well-marked and free, offering a panoramic view of the lagoon and airport.
  • History: You’ll pass old Japanese WWII anti-aircraft guns and pillboxes along the ridge.

Day 5: Island Life & Snorkeling

  • Activity: Head to the harbor and find a local boatman to take you to a nearby islet or "motu" for the day.
  • Budget Tip: Joining a group at the Pohnpei Surf Club can lower the cost of a boat trip. Bring your own snorkel gear to avoid rental fees.

Day 6: Culture & Local Markets

  • Activity: Visit the Pohnpei Shopping Centre or local artisan shops for wood carvings (Lidorkini Museum).
  • Experience: Try Sakau (the local version of Kava) at a local market or "Sakau market" in the evening. It’s a central part of Pohnpeian culture and a very cheap way to spend an evening with locals.

Day 7: Departure

  • Grab a final local breakfast of fresh papaya and coconut. Most guesthouses offer a free or cheap airport shuttle.