Elato

Elato (Woleaian: Yelaat) is a coral atoll of three islands in the central Caroline Islands, forming a legislative district in Yap State, Federated States of Micronesia. It is located about 10 km west of Lamotrek, in the eastern part of Yap State. Elato is a double atoll, with a total length of 14 km. The northern component (also called Elato) has two lagoons and three islets, while the southern component (Lamolior) has two islets. The two components are connected by a narrow submarine ridge. The nearby Olimarao Atoll also belongs administratively to Elato. Total land area is 0.526 km², and the population was 96 in 2000. The islanders speak Woleaian.

Tropical maritime climate: warm year-round, around 28°C. The wettest months are June through October. Typhoons are possible throughout the wet season.

By Plane

There is no airstrip on Elato. The nearest airport is on Lamotrek (10 km east) or Yap International Airport (IAP) on Yap proper. Fieldtrip ships from Yap visit the atoll periodically.

By Train

By Car / Road

Walking and canoe travel within the lagoon are the main modes. The two components of the atoll are connected by submarine ridge — only passable by boat.

• Snorkel in the lagoon and reef.
• Visit Lamolior, the southern component of the double atoll.
• Observe traditional outer-island life.

Rainwater catchment is the primary water source. Pack bottled water or purification tablets.

• Lamotrek — Atoll about 10 km east, with an airstrip and a larger population.
• Ifalik — Atoll about 50 km west, known as a "warrior island".
• Faraulep — Atoll about 100 km north.
• Satawal — Atoll about 30 km northeast, known for traditional navigation.
• Woleai — Large atoll about 60 km west, with an airstrip.