The Offline Backpacking Travel Guide for Palau

Discover 89 must-see places in Palau, routes, costs and safety tips. All highlights plotted on a map. Verified for 2026 travel. Registered Dutch Business (KvK: 99855925).

Move ocean-first across reefs, islands, and forests, experiencing tropical beauty and local culture for travelers seeking immersive, scenic island adventures.

Island explorers moving by ocean between pristine shores

Palau isn’t just a pricey liveaboard playground anymore. Shared-boat day trips and family-run stays let you hit the headliners without torching your budget, and a smart base in Koror puts you on the water before sunrise. You’re choosing access over fluff, not emptiness over your wallet.

This is limestone labyrinth country: mushroom islets, milk-blue lagoons, manta flybys at German Channel, shark traffic at Blue Corner, drifts through Ulong that feel like flying. Slip a kayak between rock arches, float in Jellyfish Lake when conditions allow, then find carved bai meeting houses and storyboards that still tell the rules of the sea. Yes, permits stack up, public transport is thin, and currents can be honest; boats leave early and the sun hits hard. But leaning into the rhythm—cash ready, fins packed the night before, first boat out—turns hassle into hush: glassy runs across the lagoon and reefs as alive as anywhere on Earth.

Compared with the Philippines you lose nightlife and save the reef; compared with Raja Ampat you gain simplicity and shave days off transit; compared with Yap you get more sites without losing the quiet. Come if water is your north star, you’ll trade a little comfort or cash for time on the reef, and you want conservation to feel like a handshake, not a slogan.

Koror

island bridges, local markets, WWII relics, lagoon access

Airai

Bai meeting house, mangrove forests, airport access, village market

Angaur

wild coastline, phosphate mines, feral monkeys

Melekeok

Capitol complex, Lake Ngardok, hillside views, government buildings

Ngerulmud

Parliament buildings, modern infrastructure, administrative center

Ngatpang

traditional villages, mangrove forests, taro fields

Jellyfish Lake

brackish lagoon, golden jellyfish, snorkeling experience

Ulong Channel

drift dive, coral gardens, seasonal shark sightings

Blue Holes Dive Site

limestone sinkholes, cathedral-like chambers, light shafts

Turtle Cove Dive Site

vertical reef wall, sea turtles, swim-through cavern

Ngerukewid Islands Wildlife Preserve

uninhabited islets, dense mangroves, rare birdlife, turquoise lagoons

Ngardmau Waterfall Trail

river crossings, natural pools, cascading waterfall

Mount Ngerchelchuus

summit ridge, panoramic island views, steep ascent

Elauesachel Trail

dense jungle, ancient stone paths, endemic birdlife

Ngerulmud to Ngeremlengui Trail

open savanna, traditional villages, rolling hills

Long Beach

expansive sandbar, shallow turquoise water, tidal flats, distant islets

Malakal Beach

urban coastline, harbor views, local fishing boats, nearby eateries

Palau International Coral Reef Center

marine research, aquarium displays, reef conservation

Etpison Museum

island artifacts, local history, cultural exhibits

Palau International Coral Reef Festival

marine conservation, reef tours, educational talks, snorkeling events

Independence Day Celebration

parades, flag ceremonies, community gatherings, national pride

Belau National Museum Festival

traditional crafts, museum grounds, Palauan heritage, cultural demonstrations

Olechotel Festival

women’s traditions, matrilineal customs, weaving displays, ceremonial attire

Ngermid Festival

village setting, local cuisine, storytelling, community rituals

Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

limestone islets, marine lakes, snorkeling sites, turquoise channels

Babeldaob

waterfalls, traditional villages, forested hills, stone monoliths

Peleliu Island

WWII relics, quiet villages, remote beaches, memorial sites

Kayangel Atoll

coral atoll, sandbanks, coconut groves, outer reef

Palau is beach life for people who earn it. The best sand is boat-only, the water is aquarium-clear, and your “crowd” is a cruising shark at Blue Corner or a manta at German Channel. Time it right: first boat out, Long Beach at spring low tide, paddle Nikko Bay before the trades. Nights end with a cold beer at Drop-Off, salt-dried and smiling.

Most nationalities, including U.S. citizens, can enter Palau visa-free for up to 30 days, with the possibility to extend. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, and you may need proof of onward travel. Always double-check the latest entry requirements before your trip as they can change.

Palau’s sweet spot lands in late October through November: rains back off, winds tidy up, and operators haven’t flipped to holiday rates. You get dry-season clarity without December’s boat traffic, channels are reachable most days, and day trips don’t sell out until the last minute. It’s not cheap by Southeast Asia standards, but it’s noticeably gentler than Christmas week, and the Rock Islands feel roomy instead of choreographed.

Peak Dry: Dec–Mar is pay-to-play. Rates jump, boats pack out, and permits mean lines. But you earn glassy runs to Blue Corner, ripping currents with walls of grey reefs, and sunset rides past lime-green islets when the water turns ink-black and flat.
The Shoulder Shift: Oct–Nov (also late May–June) the wind rotates, shops restock, skippers repaint skiffs, and rates soften. Boats glide out half-full; you string big sites together without racing daylight.
Monsoon Lull: Jul–Sep brings squalls and chop, and the islands go quiet and reflective. Survival hack: launch early, dive leeward reefs and caves, carry a roll-top dry bag, and let the captain chase gaps between cells. Odd twist—August spikes with regional holidays despite the rain.

Tactical tip: For Oct–Nov, lock flights roughly two months out.

Jellyfish Lake: Tea-tinted water, a slow galaxy of golden jellies, and soft bells tapping your forearms when you stop kicking. Permit plus long Rock Islands run cost time and money—book the first boat and wear a rash guard (reef-toxic sunscreens are banned). Off-map: Nikko Bay WWII plane wrecks, Ngaremeduu Bay mangroves, Badrulchau monoliths.

Blue Corner: Hook into the lip and feel the current hum through the line as grey reef sharks ghost past; your bubbles flatten sideways. It’s a full-day, two-tank spend with real water moving—aim for incoming tide and dose for chop. Off-map: Ulong Channel, Siaes Tunnel, Lighthouse Channel.

Milky Way: Chalky limestone mud squeaks between your fingers while the lagoon glows baby-blue and smells like clean shell. It’s a quick, crowded add-on—hit midday for color and accept grit in your suit to save time. Off-map: Soft Coral Arch, Long Lake (Mecherchar), Ngermeaus sandbar.

Ngardmau Waterfall: Leafy heat, cicadas, then cold water needles your back at the base; the trail tastes of clay when you breathe hard. Expect a muddy, rope-assisted descent and a small fee—go early and wear shoes with bite. Off-map: Ngardok Lake boardwalk, Mesekelat Falls, Aimeliik bai.

Peleliu Island: Orange Beach blazes under noon sun, bunkers sweat rust, and frangipani scent hangs over quiet airstrips. The boat transfer and guide eat a day—worth it if you can handle oven heat and coral-dusted roads. Off-map: Carp Island overnight, White Beach caves, Kayangel Atoll.

New Year’s Day — 1 January. Government offices, banks and many shops close; plan arrivals, departures and banking ahead.

Good Friday — date varies (the Friday before Easter). Religious services and public offices close; expect reduced public transport and limited commercial hours.

Labor Day — 1 May. Public offices and many businesses are closed or on reduced hours; schedule any official business for another day.

Constitution Day — 9 July. National ceremonies and some closures occur; allow extra travel time near official events.

Independence Day — 1 October. Major national holiday with parades and widespread closures; book accommodations and transport well in advance.

Christmas Day — 25 December. Broad closures and limited services; stock food, cash and essentials before the holiday.

Days 1–2: Koror & Rock Islands
Settle into Koror, but don’t just treat it as a launchpad. Spend your first day exploring the local markets, quirky cafes, and the Etpison Museum for a crash course in Palauan culture. On day two, take a full-day Rock Islands trip—snorkel at Clam City, float in Jellyfish Lake, and kayak through hidden lagoons.
Day 3: Peleliu Island—History & Remoteness
Catch the early ferry to Peleliu, a place that feels like time forgot. Walk the haunting WWII battlefields, visit the tiny museum, and talk to locals who’ll share stories you won’t find in any guidebook. The beaches here are empty, the vibe is contemplative, and you’ll get a sense of Palau’s resilience.
Day 4: Babeldaob Island—Jungle & Culture
Return to Babeldaob for a day of hiking—Ngardok Nature Reserve is a lesser-known spot where you can spot rare birds and wander through dense rainforest. Visit the bai in Melekeok and the stone monoliths at Badrulchau for a dose of ancient mystery.
Day 5: Kayangel Atoll—Remote Paradise
End with a day trip to Kayangel, Palau’s northernmost atoll. It’s a long boat ride, but the reward is a sandbar paradise with blindingly white beaches, crystal-clear water, and a tiny village where you can try fresh coconut and chat with the handful of residents. This is the Palau you dream about when you want to disappear from the world. If you do only one day, make it the Rock Islands—nothing else on earth feels quite like paddling through those emerald labyrinths, with reef sharks gliding below and the sky wide open above.

Question: Get your own 2025 guide book for Palau

Answer: The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.

Question: How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Palau?

Answer: Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.

Question: Do I need vaccinations to visit Palau?

Answer:
<b>Vaccinations for Palau:</b>
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio). Consider Japanese encephalitis if you’re staying long-term or rural. Rabies is optional unless you’re handling animals. Check CDC guidelines for updates.

Question: What are the best SIM cards and internet options in Palau?

Answer:
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Palau, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.

Question: What are the cultural norms and etiquette in Palau for travelers?

Answer:
Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Swimwear is fine at the beach but cover up when leaving the sand. Remove shoes before entering someone’s home. Respect local taboos by asking locals or guides if you’re unsure about specific customs.

Do not touch someone’s head, as it’s considered disrespectful. Public displays of affection should be minimal. Homosexuality is illegal, and while enforcement is rare, discretion is advised. Women traveling solo are generally safe, but it’s wise to avoid secluded areas at night. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or private property.

Question: What food should I try in Palau?

Answer:
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Palau.

Uluk: A traditional Palauan dish made from taro, which is a staple in many Pacific Islander diets. Uluk is usually steamed or boiled and served with coconut milk, offering a taste that’s both earthy and rich. It’s a cornerstone of local meals and a great way to get a sense of Palau’s agricultural roots.

Taro Rösti: Inspired by Swiss rösti but with a Palauan twist, this dish features grated taro root that is pan-fried into a crispy patty. It’s a tasty fusion that highlights Palau’s adaptability and culinary creativity.

Fruit Bat Soup: Not for the squeamish, this soup is a unique experience featuring whole fruit bats stewed with ginger and coconut milk. It’s a traditional delicacy that’s more about the adventure and cultural experience than the taste itself.

Kelaguen: A Chamorro dish popular in Palau, often made with chicken, fish, or beef marinated in lemon juice, coconut, and hot peppers. It’s a refreshing and zingy dish that reflects the island’s love for fresh, vibrant flavors.

Broiled Parrotfish: Known locally as ’Palauan fish,’ this is often caught fresh and broiled with simple seasoning, letting the natural flavor of the fish shine. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers and gives a taste of Palau’s rich marine life.

Question: Is the tap water safe to drink in Palau?

Answer: Tap water in Palau is generally not recommended for tourists; locals might drink it but are accustomed to it. It’s safer for travelers to stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any potential stomach issues. Always have a reusable water bottle with a filter if you’re looking to cut down on plastic waste.

Question: Can you get by with English in Palau?

Answer:
The main language in Palau is Palauan. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Palauan skills have become a bit rusty.

In Palau, English is widely spoken and understood, making it relatively easy for English-speaking travelers to navigate the islands. English is one of the official languages, alongside Palauan, and is commonly used in government, education, and business. Most locals, especially those working in the tourism industry, such as hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant employees, have a good command of English.

While many Palauans are bilingual, with Palauan as their first language, you’ll find that English is prevalent in urban areas and tourist hotspots. In rural areas, English proficiency may vary, but basic communication is generally achievable.

Signs, menus, and information materials are often available in English, further facilitating travel. Overall, English is sufficiently spoken throughout Palau, allowing visitors to enjoy their experience without significant language barriers.

Question: What is the local currency in Palau?

Answer: The local currency of Palau is USD ($).

Question: How do I get cash or use cards in Palau?

Answer:
When you’re backpacking through Palau, it’s pretty crucial to think cash-first. While some places take cards, smaller shops and local spots might not. Thankfully, Palau uses the US dollar, so no need to fuss with currency exchange if you’re coming from the States. If you’re bringing euros, you’ll need to swap them for USD either before you arrive or at the airport.

ATMs are available but can be a bit scarce outside of Koror, the main hub. Always good to withdraw a chunk of cash when you spot one, just in case. Keep in mind that ATMs might charge a fee, so plan your withdrawals accordingly.

For exchanging money, your best bet is doing it at the airport or a bank in Koror. Carry some small bills; it’s handy for tipping and small purchases. Happy travels!

Question: What is the tipping culture in Palau?

Answer: Tipping in Palau isn’t customary, but it’s appreciated if you receive exceptional service. Most locals don’t expect tips, given the communal culture, but a small gratuity at restaurants or for tour guides can be a nice gesture. If you choose to tip, rounding up the bill or leaving about 10% is considered generous.


The Offline Backpacking Travel Guide for Papua New Guinea

Discover 89 must-see places in Papua New Guinea, routes, costs and safety tips. All highlights plotted on a map. Verified for 2026 travel. Registered Dutch Business (KvK: 99855925).

Move village to village through dense forests and mountains, experiencing tribal culture, landscapes, and adventure for intrepid travelers.

Johan Kruseman (90+ countries since 1996)

Adventure seekers moving between villages and raw terrain

Off-the-beaten-path backpacking budget-friendly adventure culture nature hiking beaches cities towns villages transport costs scams history phrases

Papua New Guinea isn’t the no-go zone the old guidebooks warned about. Domestic flights stitch reefs to highlands, community guesthouses point the way, and good guides turn “risky” into “well-managed.” That clears space for the real reason to come: a country that still moves to clan drums, not tourist timetables.

You earn PNG. You haul up slippery ridgelines to Mt Wilhelm and watch the clouds rip away like a curtain; you trudge the Kokoda and feel history in your calves; you paddle the Sepik at dusk past spirit houses and crocodile eyes; you drop into Kimbe Bay or Milne Bay and fin through schools while WWII relics rest under you; you wait quiet in Tari for a bird-of-paradise to explode from the forest; you share mumu pork with hosts who paint your face before a sing-sing. The friction is real—rough roads, weather delays, security awareness, mud that steals a boot—but it’s beatable with guides, daylight moves, and patience, and it makes the first cold SP Lager hit harder.

Compared to Indonesia’s slicker dive circuits or the Solomons’ gentler pace, PNG runs hotter, wilder, and deeper in living culture. It’s for trekkers, divers, and culture-chasers who like effort with their awe and don’t mind a plan that flexes.

Port Moresby

National Parliament, Ela Beach, urban sprawl, Motu villages

Lae

Markham Valley markets, industrial port, botanical gardens, WWII relics

Rabaul

caldera harbor, wartime tunnels, ash-covered ruins

Kokopo

market town, volcanic soil, Tolai culture

Madang

coral reefs, waterfront promenade, colonial relics

Goroka

highland market, coffee plantations, cultural festivals

Mount Hagen

mountain backdrop, tribal gatherings, produce markets

Varirata National Park

upland rainforest, panoramic lookouts, birdwatching trails

Tonda Wildlife Management Area

savanna wetlands, crocodile habitat, international bird flyway

YUS Conservation Area

steep mountain valleys, tree kangaroo habitat, community-managed forests

Crater Mountain Wildlife Management Area

montane cloud forest, rugged limestone ridges, endemic orchids

Lake Kutubu Wildlife Management Area

crystal-clear lake, endemic fish species, forested hills

Kokoda Track

wartime history, mountain passes, village homestays

Black Cat Track

jungle ridges, WWII relics, steep muddy slopes

Sarawaget Range Trek

alpine grasslands, cloud forests, panoramic summits

Crater Mountain Trek

volcanic plateaus, mossy rainforest, birdlife hotspots

Finisterre Range Trek

knife-edge ridges, cloud-wrapped peaks, isolated settlements

Kimbe Bay

coral reefs, volcanic backdrop, marine biodiversity

Nusa Island

surf breaks, island bungalows, mangrove inlets

Loloata Island

close-to-Port Moresby, dive sites, tranquil bays

Tufi Beach

fjord-like inlets, traditional villages, rainforest backdrop

Kokopo Beach

volcanic black sand, WWII relics, local markets

Port Moresby Nature Park

native wildlife, landscaped trails, orchid gardens, conservation programs

National Museum and Art Gallery

archaeological finds, tribal masks, national collections, cultural heritage

Kokopo War Museum

military vehicles, WWII relics, Japanese tunnels, battlefield artifacts

J.K. McCarthy Museum

Highlands artifacts, colonial relics, ethnographic displays, regional history

Kokopo Cultural Centre

Tolai masks, shell money, local crafts, community events

Goroka Show

tribal dress, highland sing-sings, mass dance displays

Mount Hagen Cultural Show

highland tribes, feathered headdresses, competitive performances

Mask Festival

Tolai masks, fire dances, Baining rituals

National Mask and Warwagira Festival

mask ceremonies, firewalking, Tolai and Baining traditions

Kenu and Kundu Festival

canoe races, drum parades, Milne Bay crafts

Milne Bay

island archipelagos, coral reefs, traditional sailing canoes, remote villages

Rai Coast

jungle-clad mountains, river crossings, isolated hamlets, local languages

Papua New Guinea makes you earn every mile. PMVs rattle over broken bridges, red betel nut spit stripes the pavement, and the jungle pushes back—leeches in your boots, rain at noon, mud to the knee. Then the payoff hits. Pre-dawn on Mt Wilhelm, breath white, the Bismarck Range glows and you feel the island breathe. On the Sepik, a dugout slides past spirit houses while crocodile eyes bead the water. Ash crunches underfoot in Rabaul; minutes later you’re finning over a WWII wreck. You finish with an SP beer and a smoky mumu, bone-tired and grinning.

Papua New Guinea makes you earn every summit. Trails claw up through dripping jungle, leeches hitch a ride, and rain turns clay to grease. Then the ridge opens and the world drops away: dawn from Mount Wilhelm over the Bismarck Sea, tarns like black mirrors at Piunde, wind tearing at your jacket on Giluwe’s alpine grasslands. The Kokoda Track’s history presses underfoot, villages offer hot kaukau and a place by the fire, and the first cold SP Lager back in Kundiawa tastes like a trophy. You don’t just hike here—you climb into a wilder rhythm.

Papua New Guinea makes you earn the wildlife and pays you back in full. Dawn means slick clay trails, leeches on your socks, and a slow climb to a dripping ridge where Raggiana birds‑of‑paradise explode into their courtship dance. In the lowland gloom, a cassowary thumps past; at dusk on the Sepik, crocodile eyes float like coals. Drop south and the sea opens—Kimbe Bay and Milne Bay throw manta fly‑bys, pygmy seahorses, and bommies swarmed by life. You rinse the salt, crack an SP Lager, and grin because effort still matters here.

PNG kicks back when you get lazy. Trails slide under rain-slick roots, rivers rise overnight, and the sun chews through your water fast. Push anyway. Grind up Mount Wilhelm before dawn and watch the Bismarck Range light like coals. Tiptoe on fresh ash around Tavurvur, sulfur in your teeth, the bay below calm as a secret. Drop into the Nakanai caves and feel the earth breathe. Drift the Sepik at dusk, drums far off. Savannah in the Trans-Fly, cloud forest at Tari Gap—then an SP Lager that tastes earned.

Most travelers need a visa to visit Papua New Guinea. You can apply for a visa online through the official Immigration and Citizenship Authority website or get a visa on arrival if eligible. Always check specific entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Late May to late June — with a second pocket in early October — is the sweet spot. The rain has backed off, so Highlands clay stops eating your ankles and PMVs make passes without digging out. Rivers drop, crossings turn from gambles to wades, and the coast trades steam-bath humidity for a workable afternoon breeze. Seas clear for Milne Bay and Kimbe runs, while nights turn crisp enough up high that you sleep hard. You’re ahead of the big festival surge and the priciest Kokoda groups; beds still haggle, flights haven’t spiked, and trails hold a line. You move all day, then hit a cold SP Lager while the ridge stays clear instead of smothering you in cloud.

High Dry (Jul–Sep): Prices climb, trucks pack out, and dust rasps your throat. You push anyway because the Mount Hagen and Goroka sing-sings hit hard: kundu drums thump through your chest, plumes flare, and mountain views go long. September is the surprise crush — book early or pay for it.
Shoulder Shift (Late May–Jun / Early Oct): Roads firm, clouds lift, shops roll their shutters, rangers reopen tracks, and dive skippers reset moorings. Crowds thin, costs soften, and you cover distance fast. Momentum builds; the country opens lane by lane.
Monsoon Lull (Dec–Mar): Rain drums on tin, rivers go brown, and the bush goes quiet. Solitude deepens; you own the trail if you respect it. Survival hack: start at first light, plan half-days, and double-bag everything — a long poncho and dry sacks beat any “waterproof” promise.

Tactical tip: lock in domestic flights first for June or early October, then keep guesthouses flexible — seats disappear before beds.

Kokoda Track: The trail claws up and slides down like a wet rope through the Owen Stanleys, each ridge a fresh negotiation with mud and memory. Leeches find your ankles, rain drills your hood, and WWII foxholes appear like ghosts at your feet. Then a village—kids laughing, kerosene tang in the air—and that first cold SP Lager in Efogi hits the tongue like a bell.

Mount Wilhelm: You start at midnight, breath showing white, boots crunching frost that crackles like sugar. The headlamp paints granite and tarns into a narrow tunnel of effort. Scree slips, fingers numb, lungs sting. Then sunrise rips open the Bismarck Range, cloud seas boiling below, and you’re hugging the summit sign with shaking hands that smell faintly of wet basalt.

Sepik River Haus Tambaran: The dugout rocks as the river heaves, brown and muscular, carrying heat and stories. Inside a spirit house, smoke hangs low and carvers knock curls from hardwood while drums thump like a heartbeat. Sweat runs salty, mosquitoes whine, and your soles pick up fine silt so sticky it feels like the river is trying to keep you.

Tari Basin, Huli Country: Mist lifts off sweet potato gardens as kundu drums call you uphill. Track mud grips your calves, pigs grunt from stilt houses, and men in yellow ochre and human-hair wigs stride out, proud and deliberate. A mumu pit hisses open—steam, taro, pork—and pandanus oil rides the air while a bird-of-paradise throws sequins of sound in the canopy.

Rabaul and Tavurvur: Ash flats glow in blown light, every step a crunch like walking on burnt sugar. Sulphur bites the nose; heat leaks through the soles as the volcano coughs and the bay flashes with tin roofs and rusted war bones. You crack a coconut at the market and feel grit on your teeth. If you want off the map, think the Bulldog Track, the Anga mummy shelves near Aseki, or the Louisiade Archipelago’s empty lagoons.

New Year’s Day — 1 January. Fixed date; banks, government offices and many businesses close; if it falls on a weekend the following weekday is usually declared the public holiday.

Good Friday — Friday before Easter Sunday (date varies each year). Full closures and limited public transport; plan around the single calendar date rather than a weekday shift.

Easter Monday — Monday after Easter Sunday (date varies each year). Public services and many shops remain closed on that Monday; expect reduced intercity transport.

ANZAC Day — 25 April. Commemorative services and some road closures; public offices typically closed on the date, with civic events affecting morning travel.

Labour Day (May Day) — 1 May. Fixed date; government and many private-sector offices close; plan government business for another day.

King’s/Queen’s Birthday — second Monday in June. Always observed on that Monday; convenient long weekend for travel but expect public-office closures.

Remembrance Day — 23 July. Fixed date with ceremonies in many towns; public offices often closed and local events can affect access to memorial sites.

Independence Day — 16 September. Fixed national holiday with major celebrations and likely closures across services; travel and lodging are busier in urban centers.

Christmas Day — 25 December. Fixed date; major closures and reduced transport; if it falls on a weekend the next weekday is usually observed.

Boxing Day — 26 December. Fixed date; many businesses remain closed or open limited hours; expect increased domestic travel and market activity the day after Christmas.

Days 1–4: Port Moresby & Kokoda Track
Start in Port Moresby, but don’t linger—head straight for the Kokoda Track. Even if you don’t trek the full length, spend a couple of days hiking the opening sections with a local guide. The trail is steeped in WWII history and rainforest drama, and you’ll meet villagers whose lives still revolve around the track. This is PNG’s most famous trek for a reason.
Days 5–7: Tufi Fjords
Fly to Tufi, a remote outpost where jungle-clad fjords meet the Solomon Sea. Paddle outrigger canoes through hidden inlets, visit Oro Province villages, and dive or snorkel in some of PNG’s clearest waters. Tufi is off the main tourist radar but delivers huge on scenery and hospitality.
Days 8–10: Goroka & Asaro Mudmen
Fly to Goroka, the Highlands’ friendlier cousin to Mount Hagen. Spend time with the Asaro Mudmen—famous for their eerie clay masks—and explore coffee plantations and local markets. If your trip coincides with the Goroka Show, you’ll see PNG’s most spectacular tribal gathering.
Days 11–13: Sepik River (Lesser Known Highlight)
Charter a trip up the Sepik River, PNG’s wildest waterway. The journey is half the adventure: dugout canoes, stilt villages, and master carvers whose art is world-renowned. The Sepik is logistically challenging but utterly worth it for the sense of remoteness and artistry.
Days 14–15: Madang Coast
Wrap up in Madang for reef time, WWII history, and a soft landing after the wilds of the interior. My must-do day: paddling the Sepik at sunrise, mist curling off the water, with only the sound of paddles and distant drums—this is the PNG that rewires your sense of adventure.

Question: Get your own 2025 guide book for Papua New Guinea

Answer: The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.

Question: How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Papua New Guinea?

Answer: Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.

Question: Do I need vaccinations to visit Papua New Guinea?

Answer: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines (like MMR and DTP) are recommended. Consider a rabies vaccine if you plan for outdoor activities or animal interaction. Malaria prophylaxis is crucial, and a yellow fever vaccine is needed if you’re coming from a yellow fever endemic country. Always check with a healthcare provider for the latest advice.

Question: What are the best SIM cards and internet options in Papua New Guinea?

Answer:
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Papua New Guinea, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.

Question: What are the cultural norms and etiquette in Papua New Guinea for travelers?

Answer: Respect local traditions by dressing modestly, especially in rural areas. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites. Avoid public displays of affection; they’re frowned upon and can cause offense, especially for same-sex couples. Women should be cautious when traveling alone; local customs can be conservative. It’s polite to bring small gifts when visiting a village, like food or school supplies. Always greet with a handshake and a smile. Avoid discussing politics or sensitive topics. Showing genuine interest in local cultures goes a long way.

Question: What food should I try in Papua New Guinea?

Answer:
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Papua New Guinea.

Mumu: A traditional dish that’s cooked in an earth oven, mumu is a hearty mix of pork, sweet potatoes, rice, and greens. It’s a big part of celebrations and gatherings, so it’s not just about the food, but the community vibe around it.

Kaukau: This is basically sweet potato, but it’s a staple here and used in a lot of meals. Given the terrain of PNG, sweet potatoes grow well and are a crucial part of the diet.

Sago: Made from the sago palm, this starchy staple is a bit like a pancake or dumpling, often served with meat or fish. It’s especially important in coastal and river communities.

Kokoda Fish: This is the PNG version of ceviche, made with raw fish marinated in lime and coconut cream. It’s refreshing and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Chicken Pot: A comforting dish of chicken stewed with coconut milk and vegetables, it’s a common household recipe and reflects the tropical flavors of the region.

Question: Is the tap water safe to drink in Papua New Guinea?

Answer: Tap water in Papua New Guinea isn’t considered safe for tourists to drink due to potential contamination issues. Locals might drink it, but it’s not recommended for visitors. Stick to bottled or filtered water to be on the safe side.

Question: Can you get by with English in Papua New Guinea?

Answer:
The main language in Papua New Guinea is Tok Pisin. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Tok Pisin skills have become a bit rusty.

In Papua New Guinea (PNG), English is one of the official languages, alongside Tok Pisin and Hiri Motu. While English is widely used in government, education, and formal settings, the proficiency level among the general population varies significantly. In urban areas and among educated individuals, English is more commonly spoken and understood. However, in rural regions, where many people speak local languages or Tok Pisin, English proficiency may be limited.

Many Papua New Guineans are multilingual, often fluent in their native languages, Tok Pisin, and varying levels of English. Tourists may find that in larger cities like Port Moresby, English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, in more remote areas, it’s advisable to learn some basic phrases in Tok Pisin or rely on a local guide.

Overall, while English is present and used, travelers should be prepared for varying levels of fluency and consider alternative communication methods to enhance their experience in PNG.

Question: What is the local currency in Papua New Guinea?

Answer: The local currency of Papua New Guinea is PGK (Kina).

Question: How do I get cash or use cards in Papua New Guinea?

Answer:
When backpacking in Papua New Guinea, cash is king. ATMs are mainly found in cities like Port Moresby and Lae, but they can be unreliable, so don’t count on them exclusively. Carry enough cash to cover expenses in remote areas where ATMs are scarce or nonexistent.

Bring Australian dollars as they are widely accepted and often preferred over other foreign currencies. Euros and USD might work in bigger cities, but rates aren’t always favorable. For exchanging money, stick to banks or authorized exchange bureaus in urban centers to avoid scams.

Credit cards aren’t widely accepted, especially outside major hotels and stores in big cities, so don’t rely on them for everyday purchases. Always have some small bills on hand for markets, local transport, and eateries. Keep your cash secure and split it between different places on your person or backpack.

Question: What is the tipping culture in Papua New Guinea?

Answer: Tipping is not a common practice in Papua New Guinea and is generally not expected. Most locals don’t tip, and service workers don’t rely on tips as part of their income. If you receive exceptional service and want to show appreciation, rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is sufficient.


The Offline Backpacking Travel Guide for Samoa

Discover 89 must-see places in Samoa, routes, costs and safety tips. All highlights plotted on a map. Verified for 2026 travel. Registered Dutch Business (KvK: 99855925).

Live village-centered days, reefs, and forests, experiencing tropical culture and landscapes for travelers seeking immersive, relaxed island adventures.

Village and ocean-focused travelers moving at island pace

Your biggest expense in Samoa isn’t money—it’s patience. Flights can sting, but once you land, fales, buses, and plates of oka are cheap; ATMs thin out beyond Apia and Sundays go quiet. That unhurried pulse is fa’a Samoa—life timed by church bells and family.

You come for salt-sweet mornings on Lalomanu, for To Sua’s turquoise drop, for waterfalls pounding jungle and black lava fields breathing heat on Savai‘i. By dusk, breadfruit smoke from umu fires threads the villages, choirs lift from open-walled churches, and flying foxes wheel overhead. Heat sticks, dogs bark, ferries shrug at schedules, and rain goes sideways—but the first plunge, a fiafia’s drumbeat, and an ice-cold Vailima at sunset make the friction worth it.

Compared with Fiji’s resorts, Tonga’s hush and whales, the Cooks’ polish, and American Samoa’s red tape, Samoa is for travelers who trade convenience for culture—happy with simple digs, slow roads, and nights scored by surf.

Apia

central market, colonial buildings, harborfront, nightlife spots

Salelologa

market hub, bus station, Savai'i entry point, local shops

Lalomanu

white sand beach, reef lagoon, coastal fales, sunrise views

Manono

car-free island, walking trail, traditional villages, sea breezes

Falealupo

rainforest canopy walk, remote beaches, village homestays

Safotu

lagoon views, fishing boats, coastal churches

Mulifanua

ferry terminal, coconut plantations, rural crossroads, Upolu gateway

To Sua Ocean Trench

deep swimming hole, lush gardens, wooden ladder descent

Taga Blowholes

coastal lava tubes, ocean spray plumes, rugged shoreline

Papaseea Sliding Rocks

natural rock slides, freshwater pools, rainforest setting

Saleaula Lava Fields

hardened lava flows, buried village ruins, church remains

Mulinu’u Peninsula

ancestral tombs, colonial-era monuments, coastal views

O Le Pupu-Puʿe National Park

lava fields, waterfalls, upland forest

Falealupo Rainforest Reserve

canopy walkway, ancient rainforest, giant banyan

Lake Lanoto’o National Park

crater lake, wetland birds, montane forest

Cape Fatuosofia National Park

coastal cliffs, tidal pools, basalt headlands

Afu Aau Waterfall Hike

jungle trail, freshwater pools, volcanic rock, shaded canopy

Papapapaitai Falls Hike

ridge viewpoint, misty gorge, steep drop, panoramic outlook

Lalomanu Beach

white sand, open ocean views, beach fales

Manase Beach

long coastline, casual guesthouses, sunset views

Aganoa Beach

reef break, secluded cove, black sand

Vavau Beach

calm bay, picnic spots, shallow entry

Lefaga Beach

palm-fringed sand, shallow lagoon, volcanic backdrop

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

author’s residence, rainforest gardens, personal artifacts, hillside views

Samoa Cultural Village

demonstrations, fale architecture, traditional tattooing, weaving workshops

Fugalei Market

produce stalls, local crafts, tropical fruit, daily bustle

Museum of Samoa

colonial building, Pacific artifacts, natural history, cultural exhibits

Teuila Festival

traditional dance, floral parades, fire knife competition, Samoan arts

Independence Day Celebrations

flag-raising ceremony, military parade, national speeches, public feasts

Samoa International Game Fishing Tournament

deep-sea angling, weigh-in events, marina gatherings, international teams

Apia Jazz Festival

live jazz sessions, waterfront venues, local musicians, evening concerts

Upolu

market towns, volcanic ridges, coastal lagoons, waterfalls

Savai’i

lava fields, remote villages, blowholes, ancient forest

Apolima Strait

island crossings, open sea views, ferry routes, marine breezes

Samoa makes you earn your beach days: sticky bus rides, reef-stubbed toes, a sun that bites by 10 a.m. Then the lagoon opens—glass-warm water over living coral, giant clams blinking blue, turtles cruising the drop-off. You nap in a fale with the trade wind in the thatch, rinse the salt, and chase sunset with a cold Vailima before drums pull you into Apia’s night.

Heat on your neck, salt on your skin, and a stranger whistles you under a fale. Kids shout talofa; aunties fix your lavalava knot and laugh kindly at your Samoan. You get teased first, helped second, fed third—taro, fish, palusami. When the evening bell rings for sa, they gesture you to sit quiet. Later, a cold Vailima appears.

Expect sweat-soaked climbs through O Le Pupu-Pu’e, ankles in red mud. Lava fields of Savai’i fry your soles. Then: To Sua’s cool drop, Alofaaga blowholes pound your ribs, Lake Lanoto’o cups the sky, and from Mount Silisili’s shoulder you read the reef like a map. Rinse off with a bucket behind a village fale, crack a cold Vailima, and let the day hum.

Most travelers, including those from the U.S., EU, and many other countries, do not need a visa for stays up to 60 days in Samoa. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling as policies can change.

Sweet spot: late May–mid June and September. Trades steady, humidity easing, rain tapering, cyclone risk low. Water clears but falls still punch from the wet. School breaks haven’t hit; fales and buses have space, prices lag. You sleep under a fan, then walk the dawn road to a cold Vailima.

  Peak Dry (June–August): Heat bounces off lava. Fales fill, cars vanish, prices bite. Then Lalomanu dawn goes glass-flat, and one cold Vailima resets you.
  Shoulder Shift (late May–mid June; September–October): Buses breathe; shutters lift; rain slides off. You move—walk, hop, swim—without bargaining. May stays oddly quiet while trails firm.
  Cyclone Wet (December–March): The country turns inward; sky bruised, leaves dripping. December crowds return despite squalls. Walk at first light; carry a roll‑top dry bag.

In June–August, reserve the inter‑island ferry and beach fales three weeks ahead; the shoulder lets you book on arrival.

To Sua Ocean Trench: The wooden ladder flexes and your hands come away slick with algae as you drop into a cool, turquoise hole cut by old lava. Down below, the air smells like salt and wet fern; the water is glassy until your kick scuffs it to silver, and the steep green walls swallow sound.

Lalomanu Beach: Afternoon light goes white-hot on squeaky coral sand, and the trade wind carries coconut smoke from a roadside umu. You step into a fale’s shade, toes still gritty, crack a cold Vailima from the esky, and the first swallow bulldozes through the salt on your lips.

Alofaaga Blowholes (Savai‘i): Basalt plates glare with heat and the ocean rams the tubes, blasting columns that salt your eyelashes and thump your ribs. The ground hums under your soles; a villager launches a coconut like a mortar round, and you learn exactly how far back “safe” feels.

Papaseea Sliding Rocks: Concrete steps drop you to a river cut smooth as bone; you sit, commit, and the rock scoots you into a cold bowl that bites the breath from your chest. When you scramble out, hips pink and laughing, the air is leaf-mold and clean water.

Saleaula Lava Fields: Midday heat radiates off ropey black flows that swallowed a village; the church’s stone ribs still stand, altar bright against ash. Volcanic glass crunches under your sandals and soot dusts your toes, while a quiet stall sells ice blocks from a creaking cooler; for extra edges: the Falease‘ela River trek, Matavanu Crater’s caretaker perch, and Savaia’s giant clam sanctuary.

New Year’s Day — 1 January. Government offices, banks and most shops close; if it falls on a Sunday the following Monday is normally observed.

Day after New Year — 2 January. A national holiday with similar closures to New Year’s Day; plan arrivals and transport around reduced services.

Good Friday — Friday before Easter (variable, March/April). Nationwide closures and quieter services; expect church services and limited public transport.

Easter Monday — Monday after Easter (variable, March/April). Another full public holiday; book essential travel and tours in advance.

Independence Day — 1 June. National celebrations and public ceremonies; many businesses close or operate reduced hours.

White Sunday — Second Sunday in October; the following Monday is a public holiday. Sunday is church-focused and Monday is the legal holiday with widespread closures.

Christmas Day — 25 December. Major closures across government and retail; if on a Sunday the following Monday is usually observed.

Boxing Day — 26 December. Public holiday with altered retail hours and limited services; travel and bookings can be affected through the holiday stretch.

Days 1–2: Upolu (Apia, North Coast, & Waterfalls)
Start in Apia, where you can dive into the local rhythm—morning markets, the Stevenson Museum, and a stroll along the seawall. Spend your second day exploring the north coast: visit the Papaseea Sliding Rocks, then head to the Afu Aau Waterfall for a swim in a jungle pool that feels straight out of a movie.
Days 3–4: Savai'i (Salelologa, Lava Fields, & Manase Beach)
Take the ferry to Savai'i, Samoa’s quieter, wilder sibling. Day three is for the Saleaula Lava Fields—black rock, ruined churches, and the story of a volcanic eruption that changed the landscape. Overnight in Manase, where the beach is wide, the water is calm, and the sunsets are worth every mosquito bite. Day four, check out the Alofaaga Blowholes (yes, they really shoot water sky-high), then relax at a beach fale.
Day 5: Upolu South Coast (To Sua Ocean Trench & Lotofaga Village)
Back on Upolu, finish with the To Sua Ocean Trench and a visit to Lotofaga Village—a lesser-known spot where you can join a local cooking class or just wander the quiet lanes. This day is about connecting with Samoan life beyond the postcard views. If you only do one day, make it the Savai'i lava fields and Manase Beach combo: it’s the side of Samoa most travelers miss, and it’s where the country’s raw beauty and easygoing spirit really shine.

Question: Get your own 2025 guide book for Samoa

Answer: The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.

Question: How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Samoa?

Answer: Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.

Question: Do I need vaccinations to visit Samoa?

Answer: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccines (MMR, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) are recommended for Samoa. Consider rabies if you’re planning extended stays or animal interactions. Check current health advisories for updates.

Question: What are the best SIM cards and internet options in Samoa?

Answer:
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Samoa, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.

Question: What are the cultural norms and etiquette in Samoa for travelers?

Answer:
Respect the **Fa’a Samoa** (The Samoan Way), which emphasizes community and respect. Remove shoes before entering homes and always ask permission before taking photos of people or villages. Dress modestly; women should wear skirts or dresses below the knee, and men should avoid going shirtless.

On Sundays, many activities pause for church and family time; it’s best to follow suit. Avoid public displays of affection, which can be frowned upon. For LGBTQ+ travelers, discretion is advised as homosexuality is not widely accepted in traditional settings. Women, particularly solo travelers, should be mindful of their surroundings and consider dressing conservatively to respect local customs.

Question: What food should I try in Samoa?

Answer:
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Samoa.

Oka I’a: This is Samoa’s take on ceviche, featuring raw fish marinated in coconut cream, lime juice, and a bit of salt. It’s refreshing, creamy, and a perfect way to beat the island heat.

Palusami: A rich dish made from taro leaves wrapped around coconut cream, onions, and sometimes corned beef, then baked. It’s often served during traditional feasts and is a comforting staple that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

Fa’ausi: This dessert combines taro or breadfruit with a sweet coconut caramel sauce. It’s a beloved treat that highlights the importance of coconut in Samoan cuisine.

Sapasui: Samoa’s version of chop suey, this dish is a flavorful mix of vermicelli noodles, soy sauce, and typically beef or chicken. It reflects the multicultural influences in Samoan cooking due to Chinese immigration.

Pani Popo: Soft buns baked in sweet coconut cream. It’s a popular snack or dessert and showcases the Samoan love for all things coconut.

Question: Is the tap water safe to drink in Samoa?

Answer: The tap water in Samoa is generally not recommended for tourists. While locals might drink it, it’s safer for travelers to stick with bottled or filtered water to avoid any digestive issues. Always opt for sealed bottled water, especially in more rural areas.

Question: Can you get by with English in Samoa?

Answer:
The main language in Samoa is Samoan. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Samoan skills have become a bit rusty.

In Samoa, English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among the younger population. It is one of the official languages, alongside Samoan, and is commonly used in government, education, and business. Most Samoans are bilingual, and you’ll find that many locals, particularly those working in the tourism industry, are fluent in English.

In rural areas, English proficiency may vary, with some older generations primarily speaking Samoan. However, basic English phrases are generally understood, making communication manageable for travelers. Road signs, menus, and public information are often available in both languages, enhancing accessibility for English-speaking visitors.

While English is prevalent, embracing some Samoan phrases can enrich your experience and foster goodwill with locals. Overall, travelers will find it relatively easy to navigate and communicate in Samoa due to the widespread use of English.

Question: What is the local currency in Samoa?

Answer: The local currency of Samoa is WST (Tala).

Question: How do I get cash or use cards in Samoa?

Answer:
In Samoa, ATM access is decent but not super widespread, so it’s smart to carry some cash, especially if you’re heading out of the main towns. Samoan tala (WST) is the local currency, and you’ll definitely want to have some on hand. While both USD and EUR can be exchanged, if you’re carrying either, know that USD is a bit easier to deal with. Major banks like ANZ and BSP have ATMs, mainly in Apia and at Faleolo International Airport.

Cards are accepted at bigger hotels, resorts, and some restaurants, but smaller places and local markets are cash-only. It’s worth noting that card fees can be hefty, so keep that in mind. For exchanging money, head to banks or authorized exchange places for the best rates. Avoid airports and hotels if you can, as their rates are usually not in your favor.

Question: What is the tipping culture in Samoa?

Answer: Tipping in Samoa isn’t a common practice, as it’s not part of the local culture. While service charges are often included in bills at hotels and restaurants, a small token of appreciation is warmly accepted if you feel you’ve received exceptional service. Always check your bill first to see if a service charge is already included.


The Offline Backpacking Travel Guide for Solomon Islands

Discover 89 must-see places in Solomon Islands, routes, costs and safety tips. All highlights plotted on a map. Verified for 2026 travel. Registered Dutch Business (KvK: 99855925).

Navigate ocean distances, forests, and villages, experiencing remote islands, culture, and tropical scenery for adventurous, offbeat travelers.

Island adventurers navigating ocean distances and villages

In the Solomons, you swap speed and comfort for raw access. Flights bite, boats dawdle, and the best bits start where the road quits. That friction fits the place: village-first, ocean-led, and proudly unscripted.

Dawn lays a mirror over Marovo Lagoon and you paddle past leaf-house villages while breakfast smoke hangs low; by noon you’re finning over WWII wrecks at Bonegi, rifles and ribs softened in gin-clear blue; by dusk, panpipes float across water as Kolombangara’s cone rises clean out of the sea. Mantas sweep channels off Munda and Uepi, tank-sized parrotfish chew coral, and Guadalcanal’s waterfalls sluice off salt and heat until skin prickles. Reality check: ferries cancel in squalls, muddy tracks eat flip-flops, power flickers, cash runs tense, and malaria planning matters. But the wait on a jetty, the extra day in a village, the long outboard run—each stretches time until that first cold SolBrew hits and the reward lands in your bones.

Compared with Fiji’s polish, Vanuatu’s packaged thrills, and PNG’s intensity, the Solomons stay quieter and more diffuse—home to some of the world’s densest WWII wrecks and reefs that feel empty. Go if you’re a diver, paddler, or history hound with patience to trade; if you prize community over convenience and wild water over Wi‑Fi, this place fits.

Honiara

National museum, WWII sites, central market

Buala

coastal market, forested hills, provincial hub

Gizo

Coral reefs, dive shops, island hopping

Munda

Airstrip, lagoon access, WWII relics

Auki

Malaita market, lagoon views, local ferries

Taro Island

Provincial capital, small airport, mangrove coastline

Yandina

Coconut plantations, wharf, small shops

Malu’u

Northern Malaita, roadside stalls, river mouth

Marovo Lagoon

coral atolls, remote villages, dugout canoes, turquoise channels

Tetepare Island

uninhabited wilderness, dugong habitat, rainforest trails

Lake Tegano

brackish lake, limestone cliffs, submerged WWII relics

Kolombangara Island

volcanic slopes, cloud forest, endemic birdlife

Arnavon Islands

sea turtle nesting beaches, coral reefs, community conservation

Rennell Island

raised coral atoll, dense rainforest, endemic species

Mataniko Falls

jungle ravines, WWII caves, river crossings

Tenaru Falls

limestone pools, rainforest trail, remote village access

Mount Popomanaseu

cloud forest, endemic birdlife, highest peak

Uepi Island

jungle backdrop, deep drop-offs, dive lodges, narrow barrier island

Nusa Tupe

airport access, snorkeling reefs, shallow bays, day-trip base

Savo Island

black volcanic sand, hot springs, megapode nesting, offshore location

Skull Island Beach

ancestral shrines, tidal flats, shell mounds, cultural significance

Marau Sound Beach

coral sand, mangrove edges, lagoon views, village proximity

Bonegi I & II Wreck Dive Sites

shore-access wrecks, coral growth, WWII ship remains

Kennedy Island WWII Site

small island, PT-109 history, coconut palms

Skull Island Shrine

ancestral shrine, skull displays, sacred site

Tulagi World War II Wrecks

deepwater wrecks, aircraft remains, naval history

National Museum of Solomon Islands

cultural artifacts, traditional canoes, local crafts

Wogasia Spear Fighting Festival

tribal rivalry, ritual combat, Santa Catalina Island

Solomon Islands Arts Festival

contemporary art, indigenous performance, national gathering

Marovo Lagoon Festival

reef tours, wood carving, island homestays

Shell Money Festival

traditional currency, shell crafting, Malaita customs

Lagoon Festival

canoe races, water pageantry, Gizo waterfront

Ngella Islands

Narrow channels, coral gardens, WWII shipwrecks, small fishing hamlets

Malaita Island

Auki markets, artificial islands, traditional panpipe music, lagoon villages

The Solomon Islands make you earn your beach time. You bounce across chop in an open skiff, clothes salted, gear never quite dry, sandflies going for your ankles at dusk. Then the payoff hits: Marovo’s lagoon goes mirror-smooth, reef flats light up like stained glass, and a WWII wreck lies in five meters, swarmed by reef fish while a manta ghosts the channel. Beaches range from chalk-white coral cays to warm black sand. Nightlife isn’t clubs—it’s a cold SolBrew from an esky, generator hum, and guitars drifting down a jetty.

At the wharf, diesel in the air and betel-nut red on the concrete, you’ll hear “Halo, fren” before you’ve found your balance. People rib you gently, laugh when you slip in the mud, then grip your forearm and pull you upright like it’s nothing. Handshakes are soft; time is softer. Directions come wrapped in a story, and someone usually walks with you anyway. A woman might press a green buai into your palm; a kid trots ahead carrying your lighter bag. Thanks are simple—phone credit, fuel coins, a shared tin of fish. You leave with “lukim iu” hanging in the salty heat.

Solomon Islands makes you earn every view. Honiara hits first: diesel-sour minibuses, betel nut red on pavement, heat that soaks your pack straps. Schedules bend to weather, so you wait, then cram into a banana boat and take chop across Iron Bottom Sound, knuckles salty. Villages mean leaf houses, kerosene light, and reef fish cooked in coconut. The reward is specific: WWII guns in the jungle, Bonegi wrecks in 30‑meter clarity, dawn in Marovo as dugouts crease green water, and a cold SolBrew on a creaking jetty while fruit bats lift like smoke.

Solomon Islands rewards those who can sweat for their view. Honiara’s heat sticks, the buses wheeze, and jungle paths grab at your shins. Then the country opens: Marovo Lagoon’s mirror-flat channels at dawn; the black cone of Kolombangara rising from its own ring of cloud; Lake Tegano’s fossil coral cliffs; karst caves cool as stone cellars; the sun-baked savannah on Guadalcanal giving way to dripping cloud forest on Popomanaseu. You end with salt on your skin, mud on your boots, and a cold SolBrew on a timber wharf while the light goes gold.

Wildlife in the Solomons isn’t staged; it just happens around you. You ride low in an aluminum skiff, salt spray in your face, outboards droning, and then drop into water so clear you hear your own bubbles while reef sharks slide past and bumphead parrotfish crunch coral. On Savo, the sand is hot with volcano heat and megapodes fuss over buried eggs, sulfur on the breeze. At dusk, flying foxes lift from mangroves and a sea eagle patrols the lagoon. You rinse off the salt, crack a cold SolBrew on a timber jetty, and let it sink in.

Most travelers to the Solomon Islands can obtain a visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and have proof of onward travel. Check the latest entry requirements, as policies can change.

Late May through June, and again in September, is the sweet spot. The big rains have stepped back, trails firm up, and the southeast trades cut the stickiness without kicking up angry seas. Reef visibility sharpens, river crossings drop from thigh‑deep to knee‑deep, and boatmen stop shrugging at afternoon squalls. Beds are easier to snag than in the July–August school‑holiday pulse, and fares soften just enough that you can stretch to a remote outpost instead of settling for town. You still earn your dinner—sweat under a white sun, red clay on your calves—but you end the day with a cold Solbrew while the air cools and the reef pops under a long, clean sunset.

Peak Dry (June–August): Boats fill, guesthouses quote “holiday” rates, and WWII sites see groups. The grind is real—early queues for permits, no‑spare seats on domestic hops—but trade‑wind mornings are crisp, seas tidy, and manta cleaning stations in Western Province run like clockwork. The payoff is glassy dawn paddles and 30‑meter viz.
Shoulder Shift (May–June, September): Markets swell with pineapples, ferries run steadier, and crowds thin after school breaks. You move—pack, boat, hike—in a rhythm, nudged by steady breeze. Villages reopen homestays, and prices come back to earth.
Wet Edge (Nov–April, heaviest Jan–Mar): Squalls slam hard, tracks turn to soap, and rivers surge. Solitude is deep and good if you respect it. Survival hack: travel early tides, pack a 20L roll‑top dry bag, and wear reef shoes for surf launches. Note the anomaly—late December gets busy with homecomings, so beds vanish even in rain.

Tactical tip: For the shoulder months, book domestic flights six weeks out and leave two float days; gearwise, a light tarp or poncho plus a dry bag matters more here than extra clothes.

Honiara Central Market: Humidity sits on your shoulders as you sidestep puddles and betel-nut spit, the air a mix of diesel, smoked fish, and overripe pawpaw. Vendors call out prices over the thud of cassava hitting the table. Earn the noise and heat, then take a cold SolBrew by Point Cruz as the sun drops behind Iron Bottom Sound.

Mataniko Falls, Guadalcanal: The trail is slick with red clay, doglegging through kunai grass and breadfruit trees, then into limestone where the river vanishes under rock. Bats stir in the dim and the guano smell sticks in your throat. You scramble, wet to the chest, until the waterfall’s spray hits like rain—shock-cold, honest, perfect.

Bonegi I & II Wrecks (Iron Bottom Sound): The black sand burns bare feet; shore break slaps your shins. Kick past soft coral and the ship’s ribs rise from the gloom, a metal skeleton fuzzed with anemones and the click of shrimp. On the surface, salt-crusted and grinning, you crush a green coconut opened with a bush knife under the palms.

Marovo Lagoon: A mirror of jade broken by reef passes and the slap of paddles. Smoke from cooking fires drifts off tiny islets where carvers in Mbili polish ebony and pearl shell. Drift in the channels at slack tide and sharks ghost by, unbothered; at dusk, fishermen beat the water and the light goes copper and soft.

Skull Island, Roviana Lagoon: The tinny hum of a 40-horse outboard cuts and you step onto coral sand, paying the caretaker before entering the shrine. Banyan roots clutch a stone altar stacked with weathered skulls, quiet except for wind in the leaves. History sits heavy, then it’s back to the boat and the hard clap of timber oars; if you want to push further, Tetepare Island’s turtle beaches, the rim path on Kolombangara volcano, and East Rennell’s Lake Tegano reward patience and stubborn feet.

New Year’s Day — 1 January. National public holiday; if it falls on a weekend, the observed day is usually the following Monday, so plan arrivals and services accordingly.

Good Friday — Friday before Easter Sunday (date varies). Nationwide closures and church services make this part of a travel‑sensitive long weekend.

Easter Monday — Monday after Easter Sunday (date varies). Adds to the Easter shutdown; expect limited transport and business opening hours.

Labour Day — 1 May. Government offices and many businesses close; carry cash and essential supplies for the day.

King’s Birthday — observed in June (date varies by year). A national holiday typically scheduled in June; allow schedule flexibility for mid‑year travel.

Independence Day — 7 July. National celebrations, parades and possible transport disruptions in Honiara and provincial centers; book around this date with extra time.

Christmas Day — 25 December. Widespread closures and limited services; prebook travel and essentials for the holiday period.

Boxing Day — 26 December. Continued public holiday and reduced services; combined with weekends can extend shutdowns into a multi‑day closure.

Days 1–3: Honiara & Central Guadalcanal
Land in Honiara and give yourself time to dig beneath the surface—visit the National Museum, hike to Tenaru Falls, and spend a full day with a local guide tracing WWII battlefields from Bloody Ridge to Red Beach. The city’s markets and street food stalls are your best intro to the islands’ flavors and characters.
Days 4–6: Savo Island & Tulagi
Boat to Savo for volcanic hot springs and megapode egg hunts, then continue to Tulagi, the former colonial capital. Tulagi’s harbor is a diver’s dream—wrecks, reef walls, and a sense of faded grandeur. Walk the quiet streets, chat with locals, and soak up the slower pace.
Days 7–10: Western Province – Gizo & Kolombangara
Fly to Gizo, your launchpad for the Western Province. Spend two days diving or snorkeling—Kennedy Island, Njari Island, and the coral gardens off Fatboys Resort are all worth the saltwater hair. Take a boat to Kolombangara for rainforest hikes and a night in an eco-lodge, where the forest soundtrack is pure Solomon magic.
Days 11–13: Marovo Lagoon (Lesser Known Highlight)
Head south to Marovo Lagoon, the world’s largest saltwater lagoon and a place that feels like the edge of the map. Stay in a simple guesthouse, paddle a dugout canoe between islands, and visit woodcarvers in remote villages. Marovo’s reefs are pristine, and the lagoon’s silence is a reward in itself.
Days 14–15: Malaita – Auki & Langa Langa Lagoon
Fly to Malaita for a final dose of culture—Auki’s market is a riot of color, and a canoe trip through Langa Langa Lagoon brings you face-to-face with shell money makers and artificial island builders. This is the Solomon Islands at its most authentic—raw, welcoming, and full of stories. If you only have one must-do day, make it Marovo Lagoon: drifting in a dugout at sunset, with nothing but the slap of a paddle and the call of a distant hornbill, is the kind of travel moment that rewires your sense of wonder.

Question: Get your own 2025 guide book for Solomon Islands

Answer: The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.

Question: How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Solomon Islands?

Answer: Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.

Question: Do I need vaccinations to visit Solomon Islands?

Answer: Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended for all travelers to the Solomon Islands. Hepatitis B is advised if you plan on close contact with locals or extended stays. For those trekking or visiting rural areas, consider the Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies vaccines. Malaria is a risk, so take preventive measures. Always check the latest health advisories before travel.

Question: What are the best SIM cards and internet options in Solomon Islands?

Answer:
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Solomon Islands, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.

Question: What are the cultural norms and etiquette in Solomon Islands for travelers?

Answer:
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Avoid wearing swimsuits beyond the beach. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. Handshakes are common greetings, but touching heads is considered disrespectful. Sundays are for church and rest; avoid planning activities or meetings on this day.

For LGBTQ+ travelers, be discreet. Homosexuality is illegal, and public displays of affection can attract negative attention. Women should be cautious and may prefer to travel in groups, especially at night. Always respect local customs and be polite.

Question: What food should I try in Solomon Islands?

Answer:
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Solomon Islands.

Poi: This pudding-like dish is made from fermented taro root and is a staple in many Pacific island diets. It’s a bit of an acquired taste but trying it gives you insight into traditional island food preservation and preparation.

Coconut Crab: Known locally as ”kakamora,” this massive, coconut-eating crab is famous for its sweet, rich meat. It’s not just a culinary experience but also a cultural one, as these crabs are often featured in local folklore.

Ulu: This is breadfruit, which is often roasted or boiled. It’s a cornerstone of many meals and reflects the importance of breadfruit in local agriculture and daily life.

Palusami: A dish of taro leaves filled with coconut cream and sometimes meat or fish, baked until tender. It’s a classic example of how locals combine simple, available ingredients into something delicious and comforting.

Sweet Potato Pudding: Sweet potatoes are abundant in the Solomon Islands, and this dish uses them in a sweet, baked pudding form. It shows the islanders’ knack for making the most of their root vegetables.

Question: Is the tap water safe to drink in Solomon Islands?

Answer: Tap water in the Solomon Islands is not consistently safe for tourists to drink, as treatment standards can vary and locals often boil water before consumption. It’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water during your visit to avoid any risk of waterborne illnesses. If you want to be extra cautious, consider bringing a portable water filter for added safety.

Question: Can you get by with English in Solomon Islands?

Answer:
The main language in Solomon Islands is Solomon Islands Pijin. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Solomon Islands Pijin skills have become a bit rusty.

English is widely spoken in the Solomon Islands, primarily as a second language. It serves as the official language, used in government, education, and formal communication. However, the proficiency levels can vary significantly, especially in rural areas where local languages and dialects dominate daily conversations.

In urban centers like Honiara, you will find a higher percentage of English speakers, including professionals and those in the tourism industry. Many locals, particularly younger generations and those involved in education, are quite fluent. However, in more remote villages, English may be limited, and you might encounter challenges in communication.

Most Solomon Islanders are multilingual, often speaking their indigenous languages alongside Pijin, a creole language that is more commonly used in informal settings. Pijin is generally easier to understand and is a practical alternative for communication with locals.

Overall, while you can get by with English in the Solomon Islands, learning a few phrases in Pijin or the local dialects can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the friendly locals.

Question: What is the local currency in Solomon Islands?

Answer: The local currency of Solomon Islands is SBD ($).

Question: How do I get cash or use cards in Solomon Islands?

Answer:
When backpacking in the Solomon Islands, it’s crucial to plan your finances ahead. ATMs are primarily found in Honiara and a few major towns, so don’t bank on finding one in remote islands. Always carry some cash, as many places don’t accept cards. The local currency is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD), and it’s best to have it on hand.

For currency exchange, stick to banks or official exchange offices. You’ll get better rates in Honiara than at the airport. US dollars are more widely accepted than euros for exchange, but it’s always better to have local currency.

Most of the smaller shops and local eateries only accept cash. Credit cards are mainly accepted in larger hotels or tourist-centric businesses, and even then, you’ll often encounter a surcharge. Keep a mix of small and large denominations, as change can be an issue in more remote areas.

Question: What is the tipping culture in Solomon Islands?

Answer: Tipping in the Solomon Islands isn’t customary, and it’s not expected in most situations. If you receive exceptional service and want to show appreciation, a small tip won’t be refused but is more appreciated when given as a gesture of thanks rather than a standard practice. In local markets and small eateries, tipping is generally unnecessary.


The Offline Backpacking Travel Guide for Timor-Leste

Discover 89 must-see places in Timor-Leste, routes, costs and safety tips. All highlights plotted on a map. Verified for 2026 travel. Registered Dutch Business (KvK: 99855925).

Travel rugged roads, beaches, and villages, experiencing remote landscapes, culture, and ocean life for adventurous, offbeat travelers.

Adventure travelers exploring rugged, natural beauty

You wedge into a blue microlet, pack on your lap, rattling toward a $15 room with a bucket shower. That’s Timor-Leste (East Timor): simple, a little bruising, and honest. Lean comfort, warm welcome, big payoffs just beyond the bend.

On Atauro the reef starts in thigh-deep water and drops like a curtain; in October blue whales ghost along the coast. Dawn on Mount Ramelau puts you over a sea of cloud, incense curling from hilltop crosses. Baucau’s colonnades peel in the heat, uma lulik stand in the hills, and grilled fish with ai‑manas burns your fingers by Dili’s shore. Roads crumble, transport waits to fill, the sun bites—but patience becomes an icy beer under a tin roof while the mountains go purple.

Compared with Bali’s polish or Flores’ growing circuit, this is slower, prouder, more conversational—a Portuguese cadence on island time. Go if you dive for living reefs, hike for quiet horizons, or value hospitality over slickness; skip it if you need clockwork.

Baucau

limestone terraces, old Portuguese town, freshwater springs

Dili

coastal promenade, colonial-era buildings, mountain backdrop, local markets

Lospalos

Fataluku culture, stilt houses, inland plateau

Maubisse

mountain retreat, cool climate, weekend market

Com

white sand bay, fishing boats, simple guesthouses

Liquiçá

coastal cliffs, colonial ruins, black sand beaches

Gleno

mountain valley, local markets, coffee plantations

Lautem

river estuary, birdlife, traditional crafts

Tutuala

limestone cliffs, sacred caves, gateway to Jaco Island

Cristo Rei

coastal headland, panoramic sea views, monumental statue, sunrise vantage

Nino Konis Santana National Park

coral reefs, tropical forest, Jaco Island, coastal lagoons

Mount Ramelau National Park

alpine meadows, sacred summit, misty ridgelines, mountain villages

Tilomar National Park

karst caves, limestone cliffs, dry forest, endemic orchids

Bucoli Cave National Park

historic caves, resistance sites, coastal hills, native woodland

Maubisse National Park

coffee plantations, terraced hills, cool highlands, rural markets

Matebian

sacred summit, limestone cliffs, wartime relics

Loi Hunu

remote plateau, eucalyptus groves, village footpaths

Jaco Island

untouched white sand, turquoise shallows, sacred island status

Praia de Jaco

remote coastline, driftwood, wild atmosphere

One Dollar Beach

long sandy stretch, food stalls, easy access from Dili

Praia de Areia Branca

pale sand, family picnics, shaded pavilions

Praia de Cristo Rei

statue viewpoint, long crescent beach, sunrise walks

Cristo Rei of Dili Statue Complex

hilltop monument, panoramic views, coastal walk

Santa Cruz Cemetery

memorial site, white tombs, pivotal protest location

Tais Market

handwoven fabrics, local artisans, colorful stalls

Resistance Museum and Archive

independence struggle, multimedia exhibits, archival footage

Chega! Exhibition

truth commission, historical documents, reconciliation displays

Tour de Timor

mountain cycling, remote villages, endurance challenge, rugged landscapes

Timor-Leste Coffee Festival

coffee tastings, plantation tours, rural markets, barista competitions

Ramelau Cultural Festival

mountain rituals, sacred Mount Ramelau, traditional dance, local crafts

Baucau Music Festival

live bands, coastal amphitheater, local artists, youth performances

Dili International Film Festival

independent cinema, open-air screenings, filmmaker talks, global films

Atauro Island

coral reefs, remote villages, mountain ridges, local dive sites

Oecusse

enclave borders, colonial ruins, savannah hills, river crossings

Ermera

coffee plantations, misty highlands, rural markets, eucalyptus forests

Timor-Leste feels earned. You bounce for hours on busted mountain roads past goats and coffee trees, the air switching from diesel and clove smoke to wet-forest cold. Mikrolets rattle through Dili, reggae distorting, markets spit betel-red smiles. Then it delivers: Ramelau at sunrise, clouds at your feet; Atauro’s reefs like stained glass; a beach shack grilling fish and that first cold beer sweating hard.

Timor-Leste is kind to a backpacker’s wallet: microlets rattle across Dili for pocket change, long-haul minibuses grind into the hills, and family hospedarias hand you a mosquito net and a smile. Eat grilled fish and rice at roadside stalls, sip strong local coffee, and end with a cold beer at sunset—living roughly $30–40 a day without trying.

Timor-Leste makes you earn the views. Dusty roads, sun like a hammer, the smell of eucalyptus and woodsmoke in the hills. Then the payoffs: Ramelau’s cloud forest giving way to dawn light, Atauro’s volcanic ridgelines falling into neon reefs, the wide savannah around Lautem and Ira Lalaro’s mirror. You hike, sweat, and drink that first cold beer with salt still on your skin.

Timor-Leste rewards hikers who like their summits earned. Trails leave from coffee villages—Maubisse, Hato Builico—straight into steep ridges that smell of eucalyptus and wood smoke. Ramelau’s pre-dawn climb bites in the calves, Matebian’s limestone cuts the wind, and then the payoff: cloud seas, church bells drifting up from valleys, coral coastlines far below. Back in Dili, the first cold beer tastes earned.

Timor-Leste makes you work for it—heat that bites, roads that rattle your teeth, salt drying to a crust on your arms. Then you kick out from shore at Atauro and the reef just falls away: turtles, soft corals, no crowds. Jaco’s sugar-white arc for naps. Dili’s Areia Branca for sunset beers, plastic chairs, low music, warm night air.

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival for Timor-Leste, valid for 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and bring $30 USD cash for the visa fee. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as visa policies can change.

Late May–June and late September–early November are the sweet spot. The rains back off and the roads stop dissolving, so the microlets grind through the hills instead of stalling in red clay. Seas calm in the mornings, dive visibility steadies, and ferries to Atauro actually leave when they say. Prices sit below the July–August Aussie-holiday bump, yet the country’s awake: markets piled with mangoes, mountain air clean enough to taste. You sweat in the capital, then earn the first cold beer on the seawall as the light turns copper.

Dry Peak (Jul–Aug): Heat shimmers off Dili’s asphalt, guesthouses and Atauro boats fill, and rates climb. The payoff: Ramelau’s windless sunrise and glassy blue walls where you hang at 20 meters like a speck in space.
Shoulder/Transition (May–Jun; Sep–Nov): Winds ease, boats relaunch, dust settles after first showers, coffee villages hum. Bonus: blue whale passes off Atauro spike Oct–Nov—blink-and-you-miss-it magic.
Monsoon Lull (Dec–Mar): The interior goes quiet and lush; thunder stacks over emerald ridges, roads slump. Survival hack: line your pack with a heavy trash bag and move at dawn before the daily downpour.

Tactical tip: For Oct–Nov whales, lock Atauro beds and a boat a couple of weeks out; everything else you can book on the ground with a flexible route.

Atauro Island Reefs: Dawn ferry, diesel in the nose, blue water hard as glass. You roll over the side and the world turns into a vertical city of coral, anthias flickering like confetti in slow motion. Proof you were there: lips salted raw, prune-fingered and grinning on a creaking outrigger.

Mount Ramelau (Tatamailau) Sunrise: You leave Hatobuilico in the dark, breath fogging, eucalyptus and damp earth underfoot. The ridge opens to a small summit chapel and a horizon that lights up like coals. Proof you were there: numb knuckles around a thermos of sweet coffee as roosters start far below.

Jaco Island: The last kilometers to Tutuala rattle every bolt, then a canoe skims you over water so clear it looks fake. Sacred, empty, and bright; sand squeaks under your heels, hermit crabs patrol the tideline. Proof you were there: salt drying white on your skin, no cellphone bars, no noise.

Cristo Rei and Areia Branca, Dili: Stone steps, sun on your neck, stations of the cross tiled and fading; wind slaps the cape. You drop to the cove for grilled fish and a cold beer from a squeaky cooler. Proof you were there: palms gritty from the rail, calves striped with salt.

Baucau Old Town and Spring Pool: Faded colonnades, peeling blues and yellows, oranges stacked high at the market. The public spring pool bites like melted ice; rough stone nudges your soles awake. Proof you were there: a shiver that lingers, and bread warm from a roadside oven; off the map: Lene Hara cave near Tutuala, the coffee ridges around Letefoho at dawn, and the quiet Maubara fort with its salt pans.

New Year’s Day: 1 January. Public offices, banks and many shops close across Timor-Leste.

Good Friday: Movable (Friday before Easter). A national holiday tied to the Christian liturgical calendar; dates change each year.

Easter Sunday: Movable (falls on the Sunday after the first full moon following the March equinox). Widely observed with church services and many closures.

Labour Day: 1 May. Public sector and many private businesses close for worker observances.

Restoration of Independence Day: 20 May. National celebrations and official ceremonies; government offices closed.

Corpus Christi: Movable (sixty days after Easter). A Catholic feast day observed as a public holiday.

Santa Cruz Day: 12 November. National day of remembrance with public events and some official closures.

Proclamation of Independence: 28 November. Commemorates the 1975 proclamation; public offices commonly closed.

Christmas Day: 25 December. Nationwide closures for services and family observance.

Days 1–2: Dili & Baucau
Begin in Dili, but don’t get too comfortable—by midday, head east along the winding mountain road to Baucau, Timor-Leste’s second city. The faded colonial architecture, natural springs, and laid-back vibe make Baucau a perfect base. Spend your second day exploring the old town, swimming in the public pool, and sampling grilled fish at a local eatery.
Days 3–4: Jaco Island & Tutuala
From Baucau, push further east to Tutuala and the edge-of-the-world beaches at Valu Sere. Jaco Island is sacred, uninhabited, and ringed by blindingly white sand—hire a local boat for a day trip, but respect the no-overnight rule. The journey here is half the adventure: limestone cliffs, wild horses, and the sense you’ve reached the end of Asia.
Day 5: Lospalos (Lesser Known Highlight) & Return to Dili
On your way back, detour to Lospalos. This highland town is rarely on tourist itineraries, but its traditional Fataluku houses and lively market are worth the extra miles. Return to Dili for your final night, tired but with a sense of having seen Timor-Leste’s full spectrum—coast, highlands, and the wild east. If you only have one must-do day, make it the Jaco Island trip: the combination of sacred landscape, untouched beaches, and the journey itself is the kind of travel memory that will outlast your tan.

Question: Get your own 2025 guide book for Timor-Leste

Answer: The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.

Question: How do I find the best and cheapest places to stay in Timor-Leste?

Answer: Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.

Question: Do I need vaccinations to visit Timor-Leste?

Answer: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are generally recommended for Timor-Leste. Consider a Yellow Fever vaccine if coming from a risk zone. Malaria prophylaxis is advised. Check CDC or WHO for updates.

Question: What are the best SIM cards and internet options in Timor-Leste?

Answer:
When I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.

These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Timor-Leste, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.

There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.

Question: What are the cultural norms and etiquette in Timor-Leste for travelers?

Answer:
Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect. Remove shoes before entering someone’s home. Handshakes are common, but use your right hand as the left is considered unclean.

Don’t touch someone’s head (including children) as it’s seen as disrespectful. Avoid discussing political issues, especially topics related to Indonesia and independence. For LGBTQ+ travelers, discretion is advised since attitudes can be conservative.

Women travelers should be mindful of local dress codes and may get extra attention but usually more out of curiosity than anything else. Always remain polite and assertive if needed.

Question: What food should I try in Timor-Leste?

Answer:
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Timor-Leste.

Ikan Pepes: This dish consists of fish marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then grilled or steamed. It’s popular because it highlights the island’s fresh seafood and the use of fragrant local spices.

Batar Da’an: A hearty corn, mung bean, and pumpkin stew. It’s a staple in East Timor, showcasing the country’s agrarian roots and the importance of these crops in daily diets.

Feijoada: A legacy of Portuguese influence, this dish is a rich stew of beans with beef or pork. It’s a communal dish, often enjoyed during gatherings and special occasions.

Katupa: Compressed rice cakes cooked in woven coconut leaves. These are often served with meat or fish dishes and symbolize the blend of indigenous and Portuguese culinary traditions.

Tukir: A spicy, coconut-based stew often made with buffalo or goat. This dish is culturally significant, frequently prepared during traditional ceremonies and celebrations.

Question: Is the tap water safe to drink in Timor-Leste?

Answer: Tap water in Timor-Leste isn’t typically safe for tourists to drink, as locals often boil or filter it before use. It’s recommended that travelers stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any stomach issues. Always check the seal on bottled water to ensure it’s intact.

Question: Can you get by with English in Timor-Leste?

Answer:
The main language in Timor-Leste is Tetum. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Tetum skills have become a bit rusty.

In Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste), English is not the primary language, but it is increasingly spoken, especially in urban areas and among the younger population. The official languages are Tetum and Portuguese, with Tetum being the most widely used in daily communication. English is taught in schools and is often used in government and business contexts, particularly in tourism.

In major cities like Dili, you will find many people who can communicate in English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, proficiency can vary significantly, and outside urban centers, English speakers may be less common. Travelers might encounter challenges in more remote areas where Tetum and Portuguese dominate.

For a smoother experience, learning a few basic phrases in Tetum can be helpful and appreciated by locals. Overall, while English is not universally spoken, it is present enough in key areas to facilitate travel and communication for visitors.

Question: What is the local currency in Timor-Leste?

Answer: The local currency of Timor-Leste is EUR (€).

Question: How do I get cash or use cards in Timor-Leste?

Answer:
Cash is king in East Timor, so plan to carry enough USD in small denominations. The local currency is the US dollar, and ATMs are primarily found in Dili. Outside the capital, ATM access is pretty rare. Even in Dili, ATMs can be temperamental, so it’s good to have backup cash.

Credit and debit cards aren’t widely accepted, especially in smaller towns and local businesses. Stick to cash for most transactions. Euros and other foreign currencies are usually not accepted, so exchange them for USD before you go.

For currency exchange, check out major banks in Dili, or the airport for convenience, but don’t expect great rates. Always check your bills for any damage, as torn or worn notes might not be accepted. Keep it simple: bring USD, carry cash, and be ready for an adventure.

Question: What is the tipping culture in Timor-Leste?

Answer: Tipping in Timor-Leste isn’t customary, but small tips are appreciated, especially in touristy areas. At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a couple of dollars is a nice gesture. For guides or drivers, a tip of $5-10 is considered generous.