Things to Do in Rennell Island, Solomon Islands

Rennell Island, known locally as Mugaba, is the largest raised coral atoll in the world and one of the most remote and pristine destinations in the Solomon Islands. Located about 236 kilometers south of Guadalcanal, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the remarkable Lake Tegano, the largest lake in the Pacific islands, and supports unique endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The island's isolation has preserved its extraordinary biodiversity and traditional Polynesian culture, making it a true hidden gem for adventurous travelers. The island is inhabited by approximately 3,000 Polynesian people who maintain their traditional way of life, speaking Rennellese and practicing customary land ownership. Visitors to Rennell Island will discover a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Pacific, with ancient coral formations creating dramatic cliffs, mysterious caves, and the stunning brackish waters of Lake Tegano teeming with endemic fish species and surrounded by dense tropical forest.

Top Things to Do in Rennell Island

Lake Tegano Exploration

Explore the magnificent Lake Tegano, the largest lake in the Pacific islands, which covers about 15,500 hectares and contains several small islands. The lake is home to endemic species including the Rennell Island sea krait and unique fish species found nowhere else on Earth. Boat trips across the lake offer opportunities to spot rare birds and experience the otherworldly landscape of this ancient coral formation.

Booking Tip: Arrange boat trips through local guides in Tigoa village for around $50-80 per day. Best visited during dry season (May-October) when water levels are optimal. Look for guides who can provide traditional canoes and have knowledge of endemic species locations.

Endemic Bird Watching

Rennell Island is a paradise for birdwatchers, home to four endemic bird species including the Rennell Island white-eye and Rennell Island fantail. The island's isolation has created a unique ecosystem where these species have evolved separately from their mainland cousins. Early morning expeditions into the island's forests and around Lake Tegano offer the best chances to spot these rare birds.

Booking Tip: Hire local bird guides for $30-50 per day who know endemic species locations. Best viewing is at dawn and dusk during dry season. Bring binoculars and ensure guides are familiar with endemic species identification.

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

Experience authentic Polynesian culture by visiting traditional villages like Tigoa and Lavagu, where locals maintain centuries-old customs and speak the Rennellese language. Participate in traditional ceremonies, learn about customary land ownership practices, and witness traditional crafts like mat weaving and wood carving. These cultural exchanges provide insight into one of the Pacific's most preserved traditional societies.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through island chiefs with customary gifts (around $20-30 value). Respect traditional protocols and dress modestly. Best to arrange 2-3 days in advance through local contacts or guesthouse owners.

Cave Exploration

Discover the island's extensive cave systems formed by ancient coral formations, including underwater caves and caverns that reveal the island's geological history. These limestone caves contain unique formations and provide habitat for endemic species. Some caves feature underground pools and chambers that showcase the island's remarkable coral atoll structure.

Booking Tip: Hire experienced local guides for $40-60 per day who know safe cave routes. Bring waterproof flashlights and appropriate footwear. Best explored during dry season when water levels are lower and access is safer.

Coral Reef Snorkeling

Explore pristine coral reefs surrounding Rennell Island, which remain largely untouched by tourism and climate change effects seen elsewhere in the Pacific. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for observing diverse marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and unique coral formations. The island's remote location has preserved these reefs in near-pristine condition.

Booking Tip: Arrange snorkeling through local boat operators for $60-100 per day including equipment. Best conditions during calm weather periods (May-October). Ensure operators provide quality snorkeling gear and know best reef locations.

Getting There

Reaching Rennell Island requires careful planning as it's one of the most remote destinations in the Solomon Islands. The only way to reach the island is by flying from Honiara (Guadalcanal) with Solomon Airlines, which operates flights 2-3 times per week to Rennell Airport (RNL) on a Twin Otter aircraft. Flight time is approximately 1.5 hours and costs around $300-400 return. Flights are subject to weather conditions and can be cancelled, so build flexibility into your itinerary. It's essential to book flights well in advance and confirm schedules as they can change seasonally.

Getting Around

Transportation on Rennell Island is limited and primarily consists of walking, local boats, and occasional 4WD vehicles. Most areas of interest can be reached on foot from the main villages, though distances can be considerable across the 86-kilometer-long island. Local boats are essential for exploring Lake Tegano and can be arranged through village contacts for around $50-80 per day. Some guesthouses may provide bicycle rentals or arrange transportation to key sites. The island has few roads, mostly dirt tracks, so sturdy walking shoes are essential for getting around.

Where to Stay

Tigoa Village Guesthouse

Lavagu Village Homestay

Lake Tegano Lakeside Lodge

Rennell Island Eco Lodge

Traditional Family Homestays

Community-Based Accommodations

Food & Dining

Dining options on Rennell Island are extremely limited and primarily consist of meals provided by guesthouses and homestays featuring traditional Polynesian cuisine. Local meals typically include fresh fish, coconut crab, taro, sweet potato, and tropical fruits like coconut and papaya, often prepared using traditional cooking methods. Most accommodations include meals in their rates, and there are no restaurants in the conventional sense. Visitors should expect simple, locally-sourced food and may want to bring some supplementary snacks from Honiara. Fresh coconut water and locally caught fish are highlights of the island's cuisine.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Rennell Island is during the dry season from May to October when rainfall is lower, humidity is more comfortable, and transportation is more reliable. During this period, Lake Tegano's water levels are optimal for boat exploration, and walking trails are more accessible. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall, higher humidity, and potential flight cancellations, though it's also when the island is most lush and bird activity is high. Weather can be unpredictable year-round, so visitors should be prepared for tropical conditions and potential itinerary changes regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Bring cash (Solomon Island dollars) as there are no ATMs or card facilities on the island - exchange money in Honiara before traveling

Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and basic medical supplies as there are limited medical facilities and no pharmacies on the island

Learn basic Rennellese greetings and respect traditional customs - always ask permission before photographing people and pay customary fees when visiting sacred sites

Things to Do in Rennell Island