Northern Mariana Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Northern Mariana Islands are a group of 14 islands located in the North Pacific Ocean, under the administration of the United States. In this presidential democracy, the chief of state is the president of the United States and the head of government is the governor of the Northern Mariana Islands. The population of the Northern Mariana Islands is approximately 52,000 people (2017 estimate) and approximately 90% of the population lives on Saipan Island.

The first people to inhabit the Mariana Islands were from Southeast Asia. In 1668, the islands were colonized by the Spanish, but in 1899, when the Spanish withdrew from the Pacific, the islands were transferred to German authority. When World War I broke out, the Japanese took control of the Northern Mariana Islands and, thanks to the Treaty of Versailles, gained possession of them at the end of the war. During World War II the US invaded the islands, taking them from the Japanese and using them as important Allied bases. At the end of the war, they became part of US administration.

Due to its location, the Northern Mariana Islands experience a tropical climate with warm year round temperatures and a rainy season between July and October.

Tourism is an important and growing industry in the Northern Mariana Islands. The islands, which are home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and best dive sites, beckon the adventurous traveller to come explore.

Currency	USD: US Dollar
Language	Chamorro, English
Capital	Saipan
Recent Alerts	1
Latest Alert	June 09, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Northern Mariana Islands (09 June Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Northern Mariana Islands. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Typhoid Fever Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Rabies Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.
Tuberculosis Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.
Dengue Fever Dengue fever may occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Northern Mariana Islands.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Rabies Vaccine Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Northern Mariana Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Northern Mariana Islands

Emergency Numbers

911

Personal Safety

Although there is general hospitality towards tourists in the Northern Mariana Islands and most visits are trouble free. Nevertheless, travellers are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and to avoid petty crime and theft. Always be alert in your surroundings. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport and never use your passport as a deposit. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.

Public transportation is limited although many hotels and resorts offer bus shuttle services. Air travel is the primary means of transportation between the Northern Mariana Islands.

Monsoon and typhoon season is from July and October. Exercise caution if travelling to the Northern Mariana Islands during this time. Due to rapidly changing weather and severe rains, infrastructure damages can occur and travel may be disrupted. Always stay alert about the weather forecast and heed the advice of local authorities.

Travellers should also note that there are active volcanoes on Pagan and Agrihan Islands.

Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as medical facilities are limited. In the case of a severe medical emergency, evacuation will likely be required.

Same-sex marriage is permitted in the Northern Mariana Islands. However, LGBTI travellers may still face discrimination based on their sexual orientation as LGBTI anti-discriminatory laws are not in place.

Get A Free Account!

Sitata uses advanced software algorithms to monitor the world for disease outbreaks and safety hazards. Each travel alert published by Sitata is reviewed by staff to ensure it meets the concerns of a traveller.

Plan A Trip

Updated: June 10, 2021