Anatahan at a Glance
About Anatahan
Anatahan is a volcanic island in the Northern Mariana Islands with a prominent central stratovolcano that dominates the small landmass. The island is largely uninhabited and notable for intermittent volcanic activity that can produce ash plumes and local disruption.
During periods of quiescence the island has sparse vegetation and seabird colonies; volcanic events have in the past led to temporary evacuations and restrictions on access. There is little permanent infrastructure and visits require coordination with Northern Mariana authorities.
Anatahan lies in the central part of the Northern Mariana island chain in the western Pacific, north of Saipan and within the Northern Islands Municipality.
- Volcanic activity: The island has an active volcanic summit and is monitored for eruptions; access is restricted during eruptive activity.
Best Time to Visit Anatahan
Access is restricted and largely impractical for casual visitors; the dry season offers the only relatively safer maritime window.
Weather & Climate near Anatahan
Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C. Heavy rainfall (2017 mm/year), wettest in September.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 22° - 27° | 25° | 122 mm | - | - | 5.6 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 22° - 27° | 24° | 86 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 22° - 28° | 25° | 76 mm | - | - | 6.0 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 89 mm | - | - | 5.9 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 24° - 29° | 27° | 100 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 25° - 30° | 27° | 126 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 248 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 290 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 316 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 24° - 29° | 27° | 259 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 24° - 29° | 26° | 173 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 23° - 28° | 26° | 132 mm | - | - | 5.9 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Anatahan
Access to Anatahan is controlled and typically limited to scientific missions or government-chartered vessels. Travel requires prior permits from Northern Mariana Islands authorities.
Tips for Visiting Anatahan
- Anatahan is an active volcanic island with restricted access - do not attempt independent landings.
- Only visit as part of authorised scientific or government operations; check local Northern Mariana Islands authorities for permits.
- Be prepared for no facilities and rapid weather changes on approach.