January is within Kiribati's wetter months for many islands with frequent showers and high humidity. Sea conditions can be variable; small local boats may be affected by rougher water on exposed atolls.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Kiribati in January.
Where to Go in Kiribati in January
South Tarawa & Central Gilberts
urban atolls
South Tarawa is hot and humid year‑round, with the urban strip from Bairiki to Betio feeling warmer because of concrete and crowded housing; expect daytime temperatures near the high 20s to low 30s°C and sticky nights. Between November and April the island gets regular heavy showers and brief thunderstorms that can flood low-lying streets - carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof shoes. Ferry crossings and small‑craft services to outer islands are often disrupted during squalls, but this is also when freshwater cisterns refill, and the lagoon looks deep and restless.
Northern Gilberts
Butaritari, Makin and surrounding islets
Butaritari and Makin register slightly more rain than the southern atolls; January brings frequent, heavy showers and electricity or small‑boat schedules can be disrupted by sudden squalls. The mornings are often humid with news of overflowing coconut tanks and wet roads, while afternoons may clear for luminous lagoon views - pack a waterproof bag and be ready to shift plans. Local WWII relics feel remote in these conditions, and fishing crews often wait for calmer windows to head out.
Phoenix Islands
Canton, Nikumaroro and the protected area
Canton (Kanton) and the wider Phoenix Islands are remote and dominated by oceanic weather; January is within the wet season and visitors should expect warm, humid days broken by heavy tropical showers. The Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) is at its most productive for seabirds and some reef life during this time, but access is limited and boat transfers are strongly weather‑dependent. Plan longer stays if you want to reach these islands, as flight and ship schedules are subject to cancellation in squalls.
Kiritimati (Christmas Island) feels different from the Gilberts: January is typically warm and humid with frequent showers and high cloud, especially on the windward coasts where fresh groundwater runs brown into lagoon channels. This is the wet season for much of the Line group, and access to inland freshwater ponds on Teraina (Washington) is lively but buggy - bring insect repellent. Flights to Kiritimati run on limited schedules and can be delayed in squalls, so keep flexible plans.
Events & Festivals in January
There are no major festivals or events in Kiribati during January to be aware of.
Planning a trip to Kiribati?
See how January compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
