Christmas Island Travel Information

Located in the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island is a small Australian territory known for its unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. From breathtaking scenic vistas to unique cultural experiences, there is no shortage of things to do on this remote island.

Here are the top 10 things to do on Christmas Island:

1. Explore the Red Crater and Dales

The Red Crater and Dales are a series of stunning landscapes formed by ancient volcanic activity. Visitors can explore these areas on foot and take in the breathtaking views.

2. Snorkel at Flying Fish Cove

Flying Fish Cove is a popular snorkeling spot, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

3. Visit the Christmas Island National Park

The Christmas Island National Park covers over two-thirds of the island and is home to a wide range of unique flora and fauna, including the famous red crab migration.

4. Visit the Christmas Island Detention Centre

The Christmas Island Detention Centre, also known as the Phosphate Hill Immigration Detention Centre, is a former immigration detention center that offers a unique cultural and historical experience.

5. Visit the Christmas Island Museum

The Christmas Island Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, showcasing the island's rich cultural and natural history.

6. Explore the Coastal Cliffs

The coastal cliffs offer breathtaking scenic vistas and are a popular spot for birdwatching, as the island is home to several species of endemic birds.

7. Visit the Ethel Beach

Ethel Beach is a beautiful white sand beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

8. Hike to the Summit of Murray Hill

Murray Hill is the highest point on Christmas Island and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

9. Visit the Cambodian Temple

The Cambodian Temple is a unique cultural site, offering a glimpse into the island's diverse cultural heritage.

10. Try the Island's Cuisine

Christmas Island's cuisine is a fusion of Asian and Australian flavors, featuring a range of fresh seafood and exotic ingredients.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Christmas Island offers something for everyone.

Climate

Christmas Island has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C (73°F to 90°F) year-round. The island experiences two seasons, a wet season from November to April and a dry season from May to October. During the wet season, the island experiences frequent heavy rains, while the dry season is characterized by clear skies and low humidity.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Christmas Island is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and birdwatching. The island's famous red crab migration also takes place during this time, which is a unique experience for visitors.

Overall, Christmas Island's tropical climate makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking for warm weather and outdoor adventures. The dry season is the best time to visit, offering the most comfortable weather and the chance to witness the island's unique wildlife and cultural events.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Christmas Island offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose from hotels, apartments, and self-contained units, to best suit their needs and budget.

Here are the main accommodation options on Christmas Island:

Hotels

Christmas Island has several hotels offering a range of amenities and services, including restaurants, bars, and swimming pools. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts, depending on their preferences.

Apartments

Apartments are a popular choice for visitors who prefer self-contained accommodation. They offer a kitchen, living room, and private bathroom, making them ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Self-contained Units

Self-contained units are a budget-friendly option for those looking for basic accommodation. They offer a private bathroom, kitchenette, and sleeping area.

Homestays

Homestays are a unique accommodation option, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality. Visitors can stay with a local family, who will provide meals and a comfortable place to stay.

Camping

Camping is also an option for visitors who prefer a more rustic experience. Christmas Island has several designated camping areas, where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the island's scenic landscapes.

Christmas Island is a remote island located in the Indian Ocean, with limited transportation options. Visitors can arrive by plane or by boat, and then use various modes of transportation to explore the island.

Here are the main transportation options on Christmas Island:

Plane

The only way to reach Christmas Island is by plane. There are regular flights from Perth, Western Australia, and the flight takes approximately 4 hours. Visitors can book their flight in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.

Car Rental

Car rental is the most popular mode of transportation on Christmas Island. Visitors can rent a car or a 4WD vehicle, and explore the island at their own pace.

Taxi

Taxis are available on the island and can be a convenient option for those who do not want to rent a car. They are available for hire, or can be booked in advance for airport transfers.

Buses

Buses are available for group tours of the island, and are a good option for those who do not want to rent a car. They provide a comfortable and convenient way to see the island's sights.

Bicycle Rental

Bicycle rental is a great option for those who want to explore the island at a slower pace. Visitors can rent a bicycle and cycle along the scenic roads, taking in the beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.