Honiara Solomon Islands Travel Guide
Local SIM cards from major providers like Our Telekom and Bmobile-Vodafone are available at Honiara International Airport or shops in Honiara. A passport is typically needed for registration. Data plans offer reliable internet access.
Wi-Fi is available in most mid-range to luxury hotels, often for a charge. Connectivity can be slower than in Western countries. Mobile data from a nearby SIM card tends to be the most consistent and fastest internet option. Internet cafes are rare.
English is the official language and is widely understood in Honiara, particularly in areas with tourists. Solomon Islands Pijin serves as the national lingua franca, used daily by nearly all locals. Learning a few Pijin phrases is warmly received.
Modern travelers can stay connected with eSIMs and transportable Wi-Fi devices, offering convenience and reliable internet.
Purchasing a local SIM card offers the most reliable internet access for your travels around Honiara and more. Consider learning some fundamental Pijin phrases for richer local interactions.
Generally open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Banks follow similar hours with ATMs available at ANZ, BSP, and Westpac branches.
Nearly all shops open On weekdays And saturday, usually from 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Some larger supermarkets might have longer hours.
Operates daily from early morning until late afternoon, typically closing around 5:00 PM. Mornings are the busiest times for a visit.
Banks generally follow government office hours. ATMs are widely available in Honiara at major bank branches like ANZ, BSP, and Westpac. These are typically reliable for cash withdrawals.
Public holidays, like National Day of independence (July 7), Christmas, and Easter, see the majority of businesses, government offices, and banks closed. Planning your visit surrounding these dates is advisable.
While standard business hours apply to most operations, remember to check for public holidays as these will cause closures. For smaller, family-run establishments, confirm their operating times directly.
Navigating Honiara with respect for local customs.
A handshake serves as a common and appropriate greeting. Direct eye contact is generally fine. A simple "Halo" (Hello) in Pijin is always met with warmth.
Modesty in dress is important. Avoid revealing clothing, especially outside hotel premises or resorts. When visiting villages, markets, or religious sites, women should cover their shoulders and knees; men should wear shirts.
Tipping is not customary or expected in the Solomon Islands. Politeness and patience hold value in dining settings.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Respect people’s privacy. Avoid photographing military or police installations to avoid issues.
Engaging with respect for local customs and traditions will significantly enrich your experience in the Solomon Islands. Politeness, modesty, and seeking permission for photographs are aspects of thoughtful travel here.
Travelers with mobility considerations will find Honiara's infrastructure limited.
Honiara has very limited accessibility for travelers with disabilities. Footpaths are often uneven or non-existent, and many buildings are without ramps or elevators.
Most attractions pose significant hurdles for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Public transport (route taxis) is not accessible. Private vehicle hire is the most workable transport method, though finding specifically adapted vehicles may prove difficult.
Services and facilities specifically designed for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are extremely limited in Honiara and throughout the Solomon Islands.
Few specific resources or organizations offer detailed accessibility information for tourists in the Solomon Islands. Planning will call for direct inquiry with accommodations and tour operators.
Thorough research and direct communication with service providers are . Ask specific questions about ramps, elevator access, and room layouts.
Be prepared for unexpected challenges and seek local assistance when needed.
Local people are generally welcoming and may offer assistance, but do not assume availability of specialized services.
For travelers with significant mobility needs, Honiara has considerable challenges due to unadapted infrastructure and limited specialized services. Careful planning and direct communication with local operators prior to arrival are strongly advised.
