In the east of Rennell lies East Rennell, with the brackish Lake Tegano, rugged limestone islands and numerous endemic species. These include an endemic sea snake. At 15,000 hectares, the lake is the largest in the insular Pacific. This combination of lake, limestone islands and distinctive species gives the landscape a clear identity.
Lake Tegano and East Rennell
The history of the protected area is also remarkable: East Rennell was the first natural site to be inscribed on the World Heritage List under customary ownership and customary management. Anyone interested in the landscape and how it is managed will find both closely connected to the same natural site here.
Hiking on Kolombangara
A two-day trek on Kolombangara leads from the coastal plains over steep slopes to the crater rim of the cone-shaped, 1,770-metre-high volcano. Overnight stays are in a camp in the rainforest. The duration and steep ascent make this a multi-day undertaking rather than a short detour. Confirm the arrangements locally before planning around it.
Music, crafts and cocoa
Traditional music in the Solomon Islands includes group and solo vocals, as well as ensembles with slit drums and panpipes. At Hotomai Cultural Village in Central Guadalcanal, visitors can take part in traditional weaving, cooking and gardening; there are also performances of traditional songs and dances. If you enjoy learning about cultural practices, this visit offers several different insights, from taking part yourself to watching.
A cocoa tour focuses on cultivation: it includes tasting ripe cocoa fruit straight from the tree and observing the harvest. As the tour’s operation should be confirmed, check the latest details with the provider.
Memorial sites and excursions
Local guides offer tours to the World War II museum and to significant sites such as the American memorial at Skyline Ridge and the Japanese Solomons Peace memorial. As tour availability can change, check current providers before travelling. The places mentioned give history its own place in your travel plans, alongside nature and cultural experiences.
A day trip also offers tours to historical sites on Tulagi and to four sites outside the island. These four include Tanambogo and Gavutu. Check current availability and departure arrangements in advance. This makes clear which stops the tour includes and what planning is needed.
Diving and hikes
Diving in the Solomon Islands lets you explore ships, aircraft and submarines. These different types of wrecks make the area interesting for travellers who want to focus specifically on underwater experiences.
Another guided hike leads from Paraninju Inland Mountain Lodge to a waterfall. Depending on fitness, the walk takes about 30 to 45 minutes each way. If you plan this tour, check local conditions in advance. The approximate walking time applies to each direction, giving you a concrete guide to the hike’s duration.
Arrival and getting oriented
Honiara International Airport on Guadalcanal is the main arrival point in the Solomon Islands. Solomon Airlines serves 20 domestic destinations in the country. As routes and schedules can change, check current destinations and times when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Honiara, Gizo, Isabel, Western Province, Micronesia, Mexico, Guatemala, Lithuania.
