Be the First on Earth to Celebrate
Travelers obsessed with time and geography often ask which country enjoys New Year first. The Republic of Kiribati rearranged the International Date Line in 1995 to ensure its eastern islands were the first to see the sunrise.
This 3-day itinerary takes you to Kiritimati (Christmas Island). It's a raw, authentic experience far from the skyscrapers of Sydney or Dubai. Here, you celebrate with community feasts and traditional dancing.
Your 3-Day First-in-the-World Itinerary
Experience what it's like to be in the country which enjoys New Year first.
Day 1: Dec 30: Arrival in Paradise
Touch down on the edge of the timeline.
London Village
Island Capital
The main settlement on the island (yes, it's called London!). It's a small, dusty, friendly village.
Why You Should Visit:
See how the locals prepare for the big night. It confirms you are in the place which country enjoys New Year first.
Daytime
Rental Car
2 hours
How to Reach:
Located on the northern tip of the island.
Insider Tip:
Visit the port area to see local fishermen bringing in the catch.
Lagoon Exploration
Turquoise Waters
The island is essentially a massive coral atoll with a stunning central lagoon.
Why You Should Visit:
The water is crystal clear and teeming with bonefish. It's world-class angling territory.
All Day
Boat
3 hours
How to Reach:
Hire a local boat guide from London.
Insider Tip:
Bring your own snorkeling gear as rentals are scarce.
Day 1 Dining: Island Fresh
Seafood caught hours ago.
Captain Cook Restaurant
Lobster and tuna specials.
Local Maneaba
Community feast (if invited).
Day 2: Dec 31: The First Midnight
Welcome 2026 before anyone else.
Poland Village
Remote Tranquility
Another playfully named village on the other side of the lagoon.
Why You Should Visit:
Visit the beautiful Catholic church and see the preparations for midnight mass.
Daytime
4x4 Drive
4 hours
How to Reach:
A bumpy drive across the atoll.
Insider Tip:
The drive takes longer than it looks on the map due to road conditions.
Midnight Celebration
UTC+14
The moment the clock strikes 12, you are the first in the world to enter the New Year.
Why You Should Visit:
There are no massive fireworks, but the sense of time-travel is profound. This is definitively which country enjoys New Year first.
11:30 PM - Late
Hotel Grounds
Overnight
How to Reach:
Celebrations centre around the hotels and Maneabas.
Insider Tip:
Look at the stars; with zero light pollution, the view is incredible.
Day 2 Dining: New Year Feast
Buffet style celebration.
Hotel Buffet
Roast pork and tarot.
Coconut Drink
Fresh from the tree.
Day 3: Jan 1: The First Sunrise
Watch the first sun of 2026 rise over the ocean.
Bay of Wrecks
Eastern Coast
The windward side of the island with rugged waves and shipwrecks.
Why You Should Visit:
It's the easternmost point accessible by road. The perfect spot for the first sunrise.
Dawn (6 AM)
4x4
2 hours
How to Reach:
Drive east from London.
Insider Tip:
It's windy, so hold onto your hat.
Day 3 Dining: Recovery Breakfast
Simple island breakfast.
Guesthouse Kitchen
Eggs and toast.
Picnic
Leftovers on the beach.