Things to Do in Ant Atoll, Micronesia

Ant Atoll is one of the most pristine and remote coral atolls in the Federated States of Micronesia, located in Pohnpei State. This uninhabited circular reef formation offers some of the most untouched marine environments in the Pacific, with crystal-clear lagoons, vibrant coral gardens, and an abundance of marine life that has remained largely undisturbed by human activity. The atoll consists of several small islets surrounding a central lagoon, creating a perfect natural sanctuary for diving, snorkeling, and marine research. As a protected marine area, Ant Atoll represents the epitome of Pacific island wilderness, accessible only by chartered boat or seaplane from Pohnpei. The atoll's isolation has preserved its delicate ecosystem, making it a bucket-list destination for serious divers, marine biologists, and adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Robinson Crusoe experience. With no permanent infrastructure or facilities, visiting Ant Atoll requires careful planning and typically involves day trips or camping expeditions organized through specialized operators in Pohnpei.

Top Things to Do in Ant Atoll

Pristine Reef Diving

Explore some of the most untouched coral reefs in the Pacific, featuring dramatic drop-offs, pristine hard and soft corals, and abundant marine life including sharks, rays, and tropical fish species. The atoll's remote location means the reefs have experienced minimal human impact, offering visibility often exceeding 100 feet and underwater landscapes that remain in their natural state.

Booking Tip: Book through established dive operators in Pohnpei who specialize in remote atoll expeditions, expect to pay $200-400 per person for day trips including boat transport, diving equipment, and lunch. Best conditions are during calm weather periods, and operators typically require advanced diving certification due to the remote location and challenging conditions.

Lagoon Snorkeling

Discover the protected inner lagoon's shallow coral gardens and marine life through snorkeling in calm, clear waters. The lagoon offers a more accessible way to experience the atoll's marine biodiversity, with opportunities to see sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish in relatively shallow depths perfect for all skill levels.

Booking Tip: Combine with diving packages or book as part of full-day atoll excursions from Pohnpei, typically costing $150-250 per person including boat transport and snorkeling gear. Visit during morning hours for best visibility and calmest conditions, and ensure your operator provides high-quality snorkeling equipment.

Seabird Watching

Observe diverse seabird species that nest on the atoll's small islets, including frigatebirds, boobies, terns, and other Pacific seabirds in their natural habitat. The uninhabited islets provide crucial nesting sites for migratory and resident bird species, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and ornithological observation.

Booking Tip: Best combined with diving or snorkeling trips, as separate bird watching tours are rare. Bring binoculars and telephoto camera lenses, and visit during nesting seasons (varies by species) for maximum bird activity. Respect nesting areas and maintain appropriate distances from wildlife.

Kayaking Exploration

Paddle through the calm lagoon waters and around the atoll's perimeter, exploring hidden coves, shallow coral formations, and pristine beaches accessible only by small watercraft. Kayaking provides a peaceful way to appreciate the atoll's natural beauty while accessing areas too shallow for larger boats.

Booking Tip: Arrange through tour operators who can transport kayaks to the atoll, or inquire about operators who specialize in multi-day camping trips that include kayaking. Expect to pay premium prices ($300-500 per person) due to logistics of transporting equipment to remote location. Best during calm weather conditions with light winds.

Camping Under the Stars

Experience true wilderness camping on uninhabited islets with minimal light pollution, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities and the chance to fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean. This represents one of the few places in Micronesia where visitors can experience complete solitude and pristine natural conditions overnight.

Booking Tip: Requires advance booking with specialized operators who can arrange permits, transportation, and camping equipment. Expect to pay $400-800 per person for overnight trips including boat transport, camping gear, meals, and guide services. Limited to small groups and dependent on weather conditions and permit availability.

Getting There

Ant Atoll is accessible only from Pohnpei, the capital of Pohnpei State in the Federated States of Micronesia. Visitors must first fly to Pohnpei International Airport, which receives flights from Guam, Honolulu, and other Pacific destinations via United Airlines' island hopper service. From Pohnpei, the atoll can be reached by chartered boat (2-3 hour journey depending on weather and boat type) or seaplane when available. All transportation to the atoll must be arranged through licensed tour operators in Pohnpei, as there are no scheduled services to this remote location.

Getting Around

Transportation around Ant Atoll is limited to small boats, kayaks, or swimming/snorkeling, as the atoll consists of small uninhabited islets connected by shallow reef areas and lagoon waters. Most visitors remain with their tour group and use the boats that transported them to the atoll for moving between different diving or snorkeling sites. Walking is possible on the small islets, though these are primarily composed of coral rubble and sand with minimal vegetation. All movement around the atoll should be coordinated with your tour operator for safety reasons given the remote location.

Where to Stay

Pohnpei hotels before atoll trips

Camping on uninhabited islets

Day trip accommodations on tour boats

Pohnpei guesthouses

Pohnpei resorts

Multi-day boat charters with sleeping quarters

Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or food facilities on Ant Atoll, as it is completely uninhabited. All meals must be brought from Pohnpei as part of organized tours, typically including packed lunches for day trips or camping meals for overnight expeditions. Tour operators usually provide fresh local fish, tropical fruits, and basic provisions, though visitors should confirm meal arrangements when booking. For multi-day trips, some operators offer fresh-caught fish prepared on the beach. All drinking water and beverages must also be transported from Pohnpei, so staying hydrated requires advance planning.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ant Atoll is during the dry season from December to April, when weather conditions are most stable with calmer seas and less rainfall, making boat transportation safer and more comfortable. However, even during the dry season, weather can change quickly in this remote location, and trips may be cancelled due to rough seas or storms. The wet season from May to November brings higher risks of typhoons and rough weather that can make the atoll inaccessible for extended periods. Diving and snorkeling conditions are generally good year-round when weather permits, with water temperatures consistently warm at 80-84°F (27-29°C).

Insider Tips

Book atoll trips well in advance as only a few operators have permits and equipment for these remote expeditions, and weather can cause frequent cancellations

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, as the intense tropical sun reflects off white sand and clear water, and any sunscreen runoff directly impacts the pristine coral ecosystem

Pack all personal items in waterproof bags as boat rides can be wet and sandy conditions on islets can damage electronics and other sensitive equipment

Things to Do in Ant Atoll