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Rennell Island, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Rennell Island

Things to Do in Rennell Island

Rennell Island, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Rennell Island, also known as Mugaba by locals, is the southernmost island in the Solomon Islands and one of the most remote and pristine destinations in the Pacific. This raised coral atoll is home to Lake Tegano, the largest lake in the Pacific islands, and boasts a UNESCO World Heritage site designation for its unique ecosystem and endemic species. The island's isolation has preserved its traditional Polynesian culture and untouched natural environment, making it a true paradise for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. With a population of just over 1,500 people, Rennell Island offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Pacific island life, where ancient customs and sustainable living practices remain largely unchanged. The island's rugged limestone terrain, dense forests, and crystal-clear lake create a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Solomon Islands, while its rich birdlife and endemic species make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike.

Top Things to Do in Rennell Island

Lake Tegano Exploration

Discover the largest lake in the Pacific islands, a brackish water body that stretches 29 kilometers long and supports unique marine life. The lake's limestone islands and crystal-clear waters provide excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and observing endemic fish species. Local guides can arrange traditional canoe trips to explore hidden caves and limestone formations around the lake's perimeter.

Booking Tip: Arrange lake tours through local village chiefs or guesthouses, typically costing $30-50 per person including canoe and guide. Best visited during dry season (May-October) when water levels are optimal for navigation.

Endemic Bird Watching

Rennell Island hosts four endemic bird species including the Rennell Shrikebill and Rennell White-eye, found nowhere else on Earth. The island's diverse habitats from coastal areas to dense forest interior provide excellent birding opportunities. Early morning walks with local guides offer the best chances to spot these rare species along with other Pacific island birds.

Booking Tip: Contact local guides through village networks, expect to pay $25-40 per day for guided birding tours. Bring binoculars and visit during dawn hours (5:30-8:30 AM) for optimal bird activity.

Traditional Village Visits

Experience authentic Polynesian culture by visiting local villages where traditional customs, crafts, and way of life are still practiced daily. Participate in traditional cooking methods, learn about local medicinal plants, and witness traditional dances and storytelling. Village visits provide insight into sustainable living practices and ancient navigation techniques still used by locals.

Booking Tip: Always arrange village visits through proper channels with village elders, small gifts or donations ($10-20) are appreciated. Best to stay 2-3 days to fully experience village life and participate in daily activities.

Limestone Cave Exploration

Explore the island's extensive network of limestone caves formed over thousands of years by coral uplift and erosion. These caves contain ancient stalactites, underground pools, and archaeological evidence of early Polynesian settlement. Some caves extend deep into the island's interior and require experienced local guides for safe exploration.

Booking Tip: Hire experienced local guides familiar with cave systems, costs around $35-50 per person for half-day cave tours. Bring sturdy footwear, headlamps, and waterproof bags as caves can be wet and slippery.

Coastal Fishing and Snorkeling

Experience traditional fishing methods with local fishermen and explore the pristine coral reefs surrounding the island. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling among untouched coral formations and tropical fish species. Traditional outrigger canoes provide access to remote fishing spots and secluded snorkeling areas along the coastline.

Booking Tip: Arrange fishing trips through local fishermen for $20-35 per person including equipment and canoe. Best conditions are during calm weather periods, typically early morning or late afternoon for optimal fish activity.

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 access the island is by chartered flight from Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Solomon Airlines operates irregular charter flights to Rennell's small airstrip, typically 1-2 times per week depending on weather and demand. Flights must be arranged well in advance through local tour operators or directly with the airline, and costs range from $300-500 per person each way. Alternative access is by cargo boat from Honiara, but this irregular service can take 12-18 hours and operates infrequently based on cargo schedules.

Getting Around

Transportation on Rennell Island is extremely limited and primarily consists of walking, as there are no roads suitable for vehicles and no public transportation system. Most movement around the island is done on foot along traditional walking paths that connect villages and important sites. For longer distances or lake access, local villagers use traditional outrigger canoes or small motorboats. Visitors should be prepared for significant walking on uneven limestone terrain and should arrange local guides who know the paths and can provide assistance with navigation. Some areas of the island are only accessible by canoe across Lake Tegano or along the coastline.

Where to Stay

Tigoa Village Guesthouses
Kangava Village Homestays
Lake Tegano Shoreline Camps
Hutuna Village Accommodations
Coastal Village Bungalows
Traditional Family Compounds

Food & Dining

Dining on Rennell Island consists entirely of traditional local cuisine prepared by village families or guesthouse hosts, as there are no restaurants or commercial dining establishments. Meals typically feature fresh fish caught daily, taro, sweet potato, breadfruit, and coconut prepared using traditional cooking methods including earth ovens. Visitors staying in village accommodations will have meals included, featuring authentic Polynesian dishes and locally grown tropical fruits. It's essential to inform hosts of any dietary restrictions in advance, and visitors should be prepared for simple but nutritious meals that reflect the island's subsistence lifestyle and limited imported goods.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Solomon Islands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Le Bernardin

4.6 /5
(4023 reviews) 4

La Tartaruga

4.6 /5
(608 reviews) 2
liquor_store store

La Villa Restaurant

4.8 /5
(498 reviews)

Restaurant L'Auberge Gourmande

4.9 /5
(349 reviews)

La Vela Italian Restaurant

4.5 /5
(360 reviews)

HOTTO

4.5 /5
(244 reviews)

When to Visit

The best time to visit Rennell Island is during the dry season from May to October when weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities and transportation. During this period, rainfall is minimal, temperatures are comfortable (24-28°C), and lake levels are optimal for exploration. The wet season from November to April brings heavy rainfall, rough seas that can disrupt charter flights, and challenging conditions for hiking and cave exploration. However, the wet season also brings lush vegetation and active wildlife, making it appealing for nature enthusiasts who don't mind the challenging conditions and potential travel delays.

Insider Tips

Always travel with a local guide as the island has no marked trails, and getting lost in the limestone terrain can be dangerous - guides also serve as cultural interpreters and can arrange village permissions.
Bring all necessary supplies including medications, batteries, and specialty items from Honiara as there are no shops on the island and resupply opportunities are extremely limited.
Pack light but include sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and water purification tablets as accommodation is basic and weather can change rapidly, making some supplies essential for comfort and safety.

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