Gizo Island, capital of Solomon’s Western Province and the country’s second biggest city, has a rich history that encompasses the story of the Solomon Islands. It was originally inhabited by Melanesian tribes, including a tribe of headhunters who were wiped out when the rest of the island’s tribes united to defeat them. Gizo was also an important trading hub due to its strategic location and natural harbor. In the late 19th century, the island attracted European missionaries and traders, which significantly influenced the local culture and society. During World War II, Gizo was occupied by Japanese forces and later became a site of conflict between Allied forces and the Japanese, leading to significant changes in the Pacific Theater. Today, Gizo Island is known not only for being one of the Solomon Islands’ most beautiful destinations, but also for its cultural heritage, with remnants of its colonial past and traditional practices still visible in the local way of life.
Friday 3 January – Honiara – Gizo: Least Visited Countries Extension Tour
Morning
- The Least Visited Countries tour concludes and the extension to Gizo island begins today.
- Transfer to airport and board flight departing at 10:30am and arriving in beautiful Gizo Island on 12:05pm. The airstrip is located on its own tiny island: it may be the only airport in the world only accessible by boat.
- Transfer by boat (10 minutes) to the Gizo Hotel.
Afternoon
- Enjoy a delightful lunch near the hotel before embarking on an exciting exploration of Gizo island with a private driver.
- Your journey will first take you to notable highlights of Gizo town, such as St. Peter’s the Apostle Catholic Cathedral, the Prison Gate on the east side of Gizo, the market, and the Dive Gizo Gift Shop. Despite being the third largest town in the country, Gizo only has 7,000 inhabitants, given it a very relaxed vibe.
- After this, you will drive along the west side of the island, take in the picturesque views while passing through villages like New Manda, Titiana, Nikunau, Paelonge, Vorivori, and Bimbolo. The whole island has been identified by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area, so as we make our way through the island’s only road, you’ll be able to see rare species, as well as seeing how people live here.
- Finally, arrive at the beautiful Saeragi Village, where you can stroll through the local community and unwind with a refreshing swim or snorkel at the pristine beach. Depending on the time of arrival, the locals may demonstrate how they use their traditional oven. We’ll enjoy the sunset here before heading back to Gizo town.
- Dinner and drinks in Gizo Town.
- Overnight in Gizo Island.
Saturday 4 January – Gizo Island
Morning
- Breakfast at hotel.
- Today we head out for some of the most amazing and unique snorkeling and diving in the world (price is inclusive of snorkeling, but if you wish to scuba dive please see the tour exclusions list for costs).
- Your Gizo underwater adventure begins at Toa Maru, one of the South Pacific’s most renowned diveable WWII shipwrecks. This relatively intact Japanese transport ship, measuring approximately 140 meters (450 feet) in length, rests on its starboard side after running aground due to damage from an American attack. The dive begins at a manageable depth of 7 meters and gradually descends to 37 meters. The vessel is full of fascinating artifacts, including sake bottles, medical supplies, office equipment, and ammunition, all of which were left aboard before it could be unloaded. Larger items such as bombs, a motorbike, and a Type 21 tank can also be found.
- Snorkelling is also possible here. You’ll be able to see the wreck from the surface of the water – an eerie feeling! For more experienced divers, YPT can arrange guided tours are available to explore various accessible rooms within the wreck, including the workshop, crew quarters, and dining area.
- The wreck is frequently visited by marine life such as turtles and rays, and the extensive coral garden on the surface provides a beautiful spot to relax during a safety stop after your exploration.
- Lunch will be served on Njari Island, an idyllic uninhabited island that you won’t want to leave. After enjoying the food, you’ll be able to walk along the island or rest in a hammock, enjoying the silence and the sun.
Afternoon
- Njari island is one of the most significant marine ecological site in the Solomon Island. Starting just 20 meters from the shore, providing easy access for both snorkelers and divers alike, you’ll be able to see an incredible number of fish.
- The area is called Grand Central Station and you’ll soon discover why: this site boasts the second highest fish count in the world, with over 270 different species documented in a single dive! This makes it Gizo’s ultimate destination for underwater adventure. You’ll encounter a variety of species, including sharks, trevally, and batfish, making it an ideal spot for divers and snorkelers of all skill levels—no deep diving is required to witness the incredible activity.
- Early evening return to hotel for a freshen up before going for dinner and farewell drinks in Gizo.
- Overnight in Gizo.
Sunday 5 January – Gizo – Honiara
Morning
- Breakfast at the hotel.
Afternoon
- Head to the airport to catch the 12:55pm flight to Honiara via Choiseul, arriving at 3:05pm.
- Return to Honiara and catch your flight to your next destination. For those looking to extend their stay, YPT can assist with your post-tour accommodation and activities in Honiara.
Price inclusive of:
- Return airfare from Honiara to Gizo
- Twin-share room in hotel
- Snorkeling excursion
- Continental breakfasts
- YPT & local guides
Price exclusive of:
- International departure flight to onward destination
- Single supplement (+ $100)
- Scuba diving excursion (+ $150)
- Lunches, dinners & drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips for local
