Rennell Island

Rennell Island is a geological marvel and the world's largest raised coral atoll. Located in the southernmost reaches of the Solomon Islands, it remains isolated and pristine, a sanctuary for nature lovers and scientists alike. The eastern third of the island, East Rennell, is a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its unique ecosystems and numerous endemic species. The island is characterized by towering limestone cliffs that were once part of a living reef, now forming a densely forested plateau. Visitors travel here to experience a true wilderness far off the beaten path. The crown jewel of the island is Lake Tegano, the largest inland body of water in the insular Pacific, which fills the ancient lagoon basin. The local culture is unique within the Solomon Islands, as the inhabitants are of Polynesian descent. Rainforest treks offer opportunities to spot rare birdlife, such as the Rennell Fantail and the Rennell Starling. Accommodations are typically basic and community-run, providing an authentic immersion into local life. Access is via small aircraft from Honiara to the airfield at Tingoa. Due to its remoteness, careful planning and self-sufficiency are required. The best time to visit is during the dry months from May to September. As infrastructure is minimal, travelers should be prepared for a rugged experience. Rennell is a destination for genuine explorers seeking the raw power of nature and an escape from the modern world.

Nearby cities

Honiara

The capital of the Solomon Islands is located on the north coast of Guadalcanal.

Point Cruz Business District

This district in Honiara is the commercial heart of the country.

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Kokumbona

A former village west of Honiara that served as the headquarters for the Japanese 17th Army during the Guadalcanal campaign.

Lungga

Lungga is an industrial and residential settlement on the eastern edge of Honiara, located by the river of the same name.

Kirakira Trade Center

Kirakira is the administrative capital of Makira-Ulawa Province.

Kirakira

Kirakira is the capital of the Makira-Ulawa Province.

A-Tulagi

The surrounding area of Tulagi includes several small island settlements in the Central Province.

Tulagi

Tulagi was the former capital of the British Protectorate and is now the capital of the Central Province.

Tulagi Island

The former capital of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate.

Lake Tegano

The largest lake in the insular Pacific, occupying a former lagoon with brackish water and rich endemic wildlife.

Tigoa

Tigoa is the administrative center of the Rennell and Bellona Province, located on Rennell Island.

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Avu Avu

Avu Avu is a settlement on the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal, serving as an access point to remote southern regions.

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Tenaru Falls

A stunning 60-meter waterfall on Guadalcanal, reached by a scenic trek through lush tropical rainforest.

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Mbabanakira

Mbabanakira is an isolated settlement on the southwest coast of Guadalcanal, surrounded by dense tropical rainforests.

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Marau Fisheries Hub

Marau Sound at the eastern tip of Guadalcanal is a center for the trade of seafood.

History & landmarks

Honiara City Council

The city council's administrative building is the hub of Honiara's local government.

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East Rennell (Lake Tengano)

East Rennell is a UNESCO World Heritage site and houses the largest inland lake in the South Pacific.

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Tenaru Falls

Tenaru Falls is an impressive natural landmark in the Guadalcanal jungle.

Nature

Lake Te Nggano

This is the largest inland lake in the South Pacific, located on Rennell Island.

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Lauvi Lagoon

Lauvi Lagoon on Guadalcanal is one of the island's largest wetlands, rich in waterfowl species.

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Mount Makarakomburu

This is the second highest mountain in the Solomon Islands, located on Guadalcanal.

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Mt Popomanaseu

Mount Popomanaseu is the highest peak in the Solomon Islands and a hotspot for montane forest biodiversity.

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Mount Popomanaseu

This is the highest mountain in the Solomon Islands, located on Guadalcanal island.

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Mount Namarakao

Mount Namarakao is a significant peak on Makira Island.

Mount Gower

Mount Gower is the highest point on Makira Island, formerly San Cristobal.

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Mount Turu

Mount Turu is a peak in the central mountains of Guadalcanal, west of Mount Popomanaseu.

More places

Rennell Island

The southernmost inhabited atoll in the Solomon Islands, site of the naval Battle of Rennell Island in January 1943.

East Rennell

The UNESCO World Heritage site of East Rennell includes Lake Te Nggano, the largest inland lake in the Pacific.

Mount Suku

Mount Suku is a peak in the Kavo Range on Guadalcanal.

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Makira Natural Park

This park protects the Bauro Highlands forests, famous for their high number of endemic bird species.

Gold Ridge Mine

This gold mine on Guadalcanal is the country's most significant mining project.

Kavo Range

The Kavo Range is the central mountain massif on Guadalcanal, containing the highest peaks in the country.

Gold Ridge

Gold Ridge is a mountain ridge in the central highlands of Guadalcanal, famous for its gold deposits.

Itina Valley

The Itina Valley is a deeply incised river valley in the mountains of Guadalcanal.