It is believed that the first humans appeared in the Solomon Islands about 30,000 years ago. The archipelago is practically not affected by tourism, and one can hardly find a more isolated country in the world. But many people are drawn to this place due to its genuine naturalness. Here there is almost nothing artificial or created specifically to cater for the tourists’ needs, and the nature of the islands is called extraordinary. The place seems as if specially designed for extreme kinds of rest. It is truly a unique setting for scuba diving, snorkeling, exploring the history of the Second World War, ethnography, yachting and sport fishing.

Guadalcanal Island is the largest piece of land in the Solomon Islands group. This mountainous and inhospitable island is covered with slopes and peaks of ancient volcanoes, and dense tropical vegetation. Its mountainous terrain does not leave any other place for the people to live except a very narrow coastal strip surrounding the entire island. Human life here is entirely dependent on weather conditions. Marshy coasts and hot and humid climate make life extremely difficult on Guadalcanal, but it is home to about 40% of the population.

Honiara is the capital of the islands, located on the northern coast of Guadalcanal in the vast gulf between the peninsula of Cape Esperance and Lunga Point. The small and rather picturesque seaport of Honiara descends from a tiny fishing village. The city is very young, and most of its modern buildings were built right after World War II, when it was necessary to find a place for the new capital of the archipelago. A large, modern building of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands has a historical exposition about the peculiarities of the local monetary system, the traditional to the region money in the form of bundles of red feathers or cowrie shells, and a small exhibition of the works by local wood carvers. Honiara Botanical Gardens are famous for their collection of endemic plants, where it is worth seeing orchids and vines growing in the local natural conditions. On Mendana Avenue, there is a Melanesian cultural village with its typical local buildings made of palm leaves and woven mats. This colorful mini-museum focuses on demonstrating the traditions, rituals and crafts of different regions of the Solomon Islands.

Always noisy and colorful markets selling vegetables, all kinds of tropical fruits, fish, betel nuts, shells and handicrafts can be found throughout the week near the town pier. Many tourists say that the first impression of Honiara is rather disappointing, it is a very dusty and quiet town witohut any outstanding monuments of history and culture. One day is enough to explore all the attractions of the capital, as well as go to the majority of local markets and handicraft shops.

To the east of Honiara, there is a complex of Betikama church school, widely known for its handicrafts workshops and a small museum of the relics of World War II. Nearby is Thenard waterfall. Around, one can find clean water, suitable for swimming, and the local caves are home to a vast population of swallows and bats. The southern coast is rather deserted. Here is the town of Tulagi with its artisan crafts and good conditions for sea fishing, as well as the village Komuvaulu, known for its architecture and a tiny museum. The best way to enjoy these activities would be to ask your tour operator in Solomon Islands.

In the eastern part of the Solomon Islands, there is Malaita Province, which is named after the largest island. It is the most densely populated area of the Solomon Islands. These islands have wonderfully preserved the ancient traditions and rituals.

The west of the country is known for the beauty of the coast and rich underwater world. It attracts many fans of extreme sports and water recreation and is, perhaps, the most developed territory in terms of infrastructure and recreation.

Check the list of Solomon Islands travel agents to place a free travel quote request and organize a nice and cost-effective tour.

Solomon Islands Views