Getting Around Solomon Islands

Air

Solomon Airlines (www.flysolomons.com) runs domestic flights to around 20 airfields across the country. It's a good idea to book well in advance.

Road

There are over 1,300km (800 miles) of roads throughout the islands. About 455km (280 miles) are main roads and a further 800km (500 miles) are privately maintained roads for plantation use. Road maintenance is limited and the general condition of the roads is very poor, as are driving standards. Most of the roads are on Guadalcanal and Malaita.

Side of the road

Car Hire

This is available through hotels in Honiara.

Taxi

Available in Honiara, Gizo and Auiki. It is advisable to agree the fare beforehand.

Documentation

Most national driving licences are accepted, as are International Driving Permits.

Urban travel

Honiara has a public minibus service. Elsewhere, you might grab a lift in the back of a truck or trailer.

Rail

Water

Regular passenger boats run between Honiara and Auiki. A weekly service travels from Honiara to Gizo via Marovo. Otherwise, there are plenty of tour operators running cruises and sightseeing trips.

If arriving by private vessel, make sure you obtain permission from the local chief before landing in individual provinces.