A visit to the islands of Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae, the four island states of the FSM, is an exotic feast of island culture, ancient and modern history, unspoiled tropical habitat and wildlife blended with the spice of Pacific Island mystique and wealth of the aquatic world.

The FSM is part of the Carolinian Islands group and has a rich history dating back several thousand years. The islands were originally settled by ancient people sailing east from Asia and north from Polynesia. In the past 500 years European and other Asian cultures, by way of conquest and exploration, have left their mark on the islands. The Spanish, Germans, Japanese and Americans have all governed the islands at one time and, following a trusteeship under US administration after WWII, the FSM is now independent and self-governing.

Visitors to the FSM will discover a spectacular and diverse landscape made up of 2,000-foot-high mountain peaks, deeply gorged river valleys, cascading waterfalls, rolling hills, open grassland, lush mangrove forests, fringing coral reefs and protected lagoons, not to mention secluded and unspoiled sandy beaches.

• About the FSM's culture, climate and history »

Explore:
• The island state of Chuuk »
• The island state of Kosrae »
• The island state of Pohnpei »
• The island state of Yap »