Yama Oto Umi, Ltd. 株式会社やまおとうみ http://www.y-o-u.co.jp/oceania/kosrae/ World Tour Planners Co.,Ltd. 株式会社ワールドツアープランナーズ http://www.wtp.co.jp/index.html#tour
Kosrae's attractions are varied and numerous, focusing on history, culture, and the environment. It is one of the places in the world that has true ecotourism. Trekking through jungles and mountains, quietly canoeing in the mangrove channels, marveling at Neolithic ruins, or diving pristine reefs and sunken ships are just some of the many activities awaiting the traveler.
Or you may wish to simply do nothing at all and unwind from the hectic pace of today's world. Basking in the equatorial sun or snorkeling in the colorful reefs may be the ticket you need to refresh yourself. Be forewarned: It's contagious!
Address : Lelu village near Thurston’s Enterprises
One of the wonders of the Neolithic world, the Lelu Ruins is an archaeologists dream. Built by hand over the course of several hundred years, the city of Lelu was crafted from multi-ton basalt prisms that were transported from the other side of the island. The walled city represented the peak of cultural development and architectural achievement during the last years of the 15th century.
The religious and political capital – with its impressive walls standing 20 feet high, royal tombs and residences of the king and his family, and intricately cut channels for canoes to transport food and other necessities – will capture your imagination like no other site on Kosrae.
Address : Utwe District
Menke Ruins is a reminder of Kosrae’s past: there you will see some basalt walls, chambered living quarters and religious platforms. This area was built years before Lelu and is considered a religious site where ancient Kosraens worshipped "Singlaku," the Goddess of Breadfruit. She is believed to have magical powers and be able to produce food during periods of dry weather. It is also suggested she fled to Yap at the time of the first missionary’s arrival, although some believe she is still here.
Hiking the Menke ruins and jungle take about four hours, but the tour features an educational discussion about flora used by traditional healers, traditional chants and swimming in the crystal-clear mountain waters of Menke River.
Advanced notice is required. Local fruits and drinks are provided. Arrangement can be made at your hotel
Hiking Mt.Finkol is for the adventurous, experienced and fit traveler since this is Kosrae’s highest peak. The hike up the near 2,000-foot mist-shrouded mountain requires a tour guide and about eight hours (round-trip). The trail is steep and can be difficult during raining weather, but it is well worth the time. As you slowly work your way up the trail, check out the varied flora and fauna. Once the summit is reached, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island.
Access is gained on the new road in Utwe.
Address : Tafunsak Village
Contact : (691) 370-3122
The James Palsis Marine Park offers visitors a look at some of Micronesia’s most pristine forests and mangrove ecosystems. Located between Tafunsak and Walung villages the Park is a community-based conservation area, recognized by the people and state of Kosrae for its outstanding and sustainable biodiversity. You can snorkel in crystal clear, 83 degree F waters over colorful reefs teeming with life, or strolling along the isolated beaches near Walung Village. In the Park, you can unwind at the Parks newly completed picnic huts and have a BBQ. Toilet facilities available.
Address : Lelu Village, Tafunsak Village, Walung Village
Contact : (691) 370-2228
This quote by Bruce L. Campbell says it all; “Close your eyes and imagine a secluded white sandy without a single footprint to mar its pristine beauty. Imagine the thunderous roar of the surf crashing over distant reefs and the sound of gentile waves lapping against the shore. A cool ocean breeze stirs the lush jungle growth and the perfumed scent of the many flowers carries for miles. Does this sound like your idea of paradise? If you open your eyes, you’ll find yourself transported to another world of island beauty – Kosrae!
Address : Utwe and Walung
Contact: (691) 370-2321
The Utwe-Walung Marine Park offers visitors a look at some of Micronesia’s most pristine forests and mangrove ecosystems. Located between Utwe and Walung villages the Park is a community-based conservation area, recognized by the people and state of Kosrae for its outstanding and sustainable biodiversity.
You can select from a variety of tour offerings at the Park – seeing the mangrove channels by traditional canoes, trekking to ancient stone ruins built centuries ago deep in the rainforest, snorkeling in crystal clear, 83 degree F waters over colorful reefs teeming with life, or strolling along the isolated beaches near Walung Village.
In the Park, you can unwind at the Parks newly completed headquarters. Set on the shore a stones throw from the famous Bully Hayes shipwreck site, the buildings architecture mirrors the past with a steep-pitch weaved roof and an open-area interior that is breezy and comfortable. Bathroom facilities available.
Advance notice is recommended. Canoe tours are based on the tidetable. Transportation service available. For more information, ask your hotel or contact: (691) 370-2321
Address : Tafunsak
The bird cave, located in Tafunsak about two miles from the airport and just before the quarry, is home to thousands of Island Swiftlets. The mouth of the cave has a large opening that goes back about 60 feet; the floor is soft, but is covered with bird droppings and is considered unsafe to walk. It is believed that the cave once cut through the island. Local lore says that a family of giants used to live there, and believed to have introduced Kosraean numbers. A sign adjacent to the cave will inform you of the legend.
Park adjacent to the site of the main road.
Address : Malem
Though a dam now conserves water at Toror in Malem, it was once a Japanese command post during the Second World War. Hiking is considered easy – about 10 minutes – for all ages.
Address : Utwe
Sipyen Waterfall is a refreshing 30 foot cascade of mountain waters that bathers and photographers alike will enjoy. Located in Utwe, the waterfall offers a relief from the tropical heat. A small bath pool at the bottom rewards those healthy enough for the short five minute walk. Rocks can be slippery, so be careful when walking up the cleared path and in the shallow creek bed. The landowner lives nearby. It is courteous to ask permission before enjoying this site.
Address : Tofol
Ancient artifacts and restored photos of Kosraean history and culture are kept here. The Museum is open free to the public.
Address : Lelu Causeway
This is a national project where protected giant clams can reach up to 3 feet and weigh 1000lbs! The clams are raised at Kosrae Aquaculture and then taken to the giant calm sanctuary at the reef on Lelu. The aquaculture building is located on the causeway and you can arrange a dive to the sanctuary through your diving resort.
An Endemic Species Tour: View the last and only Terminalia Carolinses stand in the world. This tree also known as “KA” locally is a very important part of Kosrae. The KA forest is located in Yela a swamp area access only by boat between Tafunsak and Walung. Within the watershed area of the forest located these densely populated families of Terminalia Carolinses (KA) trees fed by the Yela river valley. One can also see some endemic bird species of Kosrae are found within the area such Micronesian pigeons, fruit doves, starlings, and dusky white eye.