Tenaru Falls

Tenaru Falls is one of the most panoramic natural wonders on the main island of Guadalcanal. Plunging approximately 60 meters down a verdant, moss-covered cliffside, the falls cascade into a deep, refreshing pool well-suited for swimming. The journey to the falls is an adventure in its own right, taking hikers through dense tropical rainforest, across shallow streams, and past traditional village gardens. The trek typically takes two to three hours each way, depending on fitness levels, and gives fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and admiring the exotic flora. Visitors are drawn to Tenaru Falls for the raw beauty of the landscape and the rewarding cool dip at the end of the trail. Engaging a local guide is highly recommended, as they navigate the unmarked paths and share knowledge about the forest's ecology and local customs. The mist from the waterfall provides a welcome respite from the tropical heat. It is a convenient day trip from the capital, Honiara, for those looking to explore the island's rugged interior. The best time for the trek is during the dry season from May to October, as the trails can become very slippery and river crossings difficult during heavy rains. Hikers should bring sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and insect repellent. Food should be packed beforehand in Honiara. Tenaru Falls has an immersive nature experience where the physical effort is rewarded with a spectacular view, showcasing the untamed beauty that Guadalcanal is famous for.

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.

Auki Market Center

Auki is the economic center of Malaita Province.

Auki

Auki is the capital of Malaita Province and one of the largest towns in the country.

Buala

Buala is the capital of Isabel Province, located on the Maringe Lagoon.

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.

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Tangarahe

Tangarahe is a settlement on the Weather Coast of Guadalcanal, known for its dramatic mountain scenery.

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Mbabanakira

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

History & landmarks

Honiara City Council

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

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Tenaru Falls

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

Mataniko Falls

These spectacular falls tumble into a canyon near Honiara.

Matanikau Falls

A spectacular waterfall inland from Honiara whose limestone caves served as a hideout for Japanese troops during the war.

King George VI School

This is the oldest and most prestigious secondary school in the Solomon Islands.

Skyline Memorial View

The viewpoint at the US Memorial on Skyline Ridge, providing a sweeping view of the Lunga Plain and the main airfield.

Mbokonavera Market

This local market in a residential area of Honiara is an authentic landmark of daily life.

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Solomon Islands Parliament Building

The distinctive cone-shaped building in Honiara was completed in 1993 with US assistance.

Nature

More places

Itina Valley

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

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.

Mount Suku

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

Gold Ridge Mine

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

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Mount Austen

A dominant height west of Honiara that served as a key observation post.

Japanese Peace Memorial

Located on Mount Austen, this memorial honors the Japanese fallen during the 1942 battles.

Gifu Battlefield

The Gifu strongpoint on Mount Austen was the last Japanese stronghold on Guadalcanal.