Solomon Islands Transport

Coming and Going

The international airport, Henderson, is 11 km (7 mi) east of Honiara. It is tiny, but has car rental and foreign exchange facilities. Work should be completed by now on a major upgrade of the airport, funded by the Japanese government. This will quadruple airport capacity. The paucity of direct flights to the Solomons contributes to the trickle of tourists, however regular flights depart from Brisbane, Australia (three flights a week) and a handful of South Pacific neighbours. Round-the-World travellers from Europe, North America and Asia can pick up regional passes - check with your travel agent. There is a 40.00 departure tax.

It is also possible to arrive by sea if you've got a bit more time on your hands. Cruise ships occasionally visit Honiara, but thumbing a lift on a yacht from the US West Coast or Australia's north east is also possible (and considerably cheaper).

It is possible (though thoroughly illegal) to travel from southern Bougainville in Papua New Guinea by boat into the Solomons' Western Province. Locals routinely travel between the Solomons' Shortland Islands and Bougainville.

Getting About

Island-hopping by air is a great way to get around. Planes fly at about 2000m (6500 ft), so the views are fabulous. Solomon Airlines services over 20 airfields in all provinces. The flights vary in price from 53.00 to 178.00, depending on the distance, and both airlines have a 16kg (35lbs) baggage limit.

Sea travel is the mainstay of islander trade and transport, but can also be unpredictable; timetables are rare. In addition to the larger, passenger-oriented vessels, copra and cargo boats nearly always have room for passengers. Shipping fares vary, so shop around. Car hire is only possible in Honiara, and it's expensive. Taxi hire is a better option for a short stay. In Honiara you'll also find minibuses, which are cheap, frequent (in daylight hours) and reliable.