Anatahan
Island Uninhabited volcanic island in Northern Mariana Islands
A largely uninhabited volcanic island in the Northern Mariana chain, with steep coasts and a central crater. Occasional sailors and scientific teams make landings for wildlife observation and to study recent volcanic activity; there are no regular tourist facilities.
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.
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.
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.
January
January is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm) and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 24°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 25°C. Significant rainfall (126 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (248 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (290 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 24°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (316 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 24°C. Heavy rain (259 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 24°C. Significant rainfall (173 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm).