WHEN TO TRAVEL TO THE SOLOMON ISLANDS
Choosing the right time for your trip to the Solomon Islands can make all the difference. It's important to consider weather elements, seasonal events and peak tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.
Location
Climate
Seasons and climate in the Solomon Islands
The climate of the Solomon Islands is tropical, with warm temperatures all year round. However, there are two main seasons:- Dry season : From May to October, temperatures are pleasant (between 25 and 30ยฐC) and rainfall less frequent.
- The rainy season: from November to April, temperatures are higher (up to 35ยฐC) and rainfall more abundant, particularly between January and March.
Low and high tourist season in the Solomon Islands
Visitor numbers in the Solomon Islands vary according to the season. Here's an overview of the low and high seasons:- Low season : November to April: this is the rainy season. Fewer tourists visit the Solomon Islands during these months, which means you can take advantage of lower rates on accommodation and activities. However, some facilities may be less accessible due to heavy rainfall.
- High season : May to October: this is the dry season and the busiest time of the year. Prices are generally higher during this period, but weather conditions are more favorable for discovering the different islands and their natural and cultural riches.
Major cultural events in the Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands have a rich traditional culture, and several events are organized throughout the year to showcase this heritage. Here are some of the major cultural events not to be missed during your stay:Yam Festival
This festival takes place every June in the province of Malaita. It celebrates the harvest of yam, a tuberous vegetable essential to the local diet. Festivities include traditional dances, songs and the exchange of gifts between participating villages.The Shell Money Festival
Held in September in the province of Langalanga, this festival showcases the handcrafting of shell coins, which were once used as a means of exchange in the Solomon Islands. You can watch demonstrations and take part in workshops to learn this ancestral technique.Custom Day
Celebrated every year on July 7, this day is dedicated to promoting local culture and traditions. Numerous activities are organized throughout the country, including dances, songs and performances in traditional costume.Public holidays in the Solomon Islands
In addition to cultural events, several public holidays are celebrated in the Solomon Islands. They can be an opportunity to discover certain local customs or simply to enjoy a moment of conviviality with the locals. Here is a list of the main public holidays:- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Good Friday and Easter Monday
- Coutume Day (July 7)
- Independence Day (August 7)
- Christmas (December 25)
- Boxing Day (December 26)
Insurance
Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.
Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.
Flights
Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to โฌ600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.
In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!
Most popular visas in the Solomon Islands
According to official data, several types of visa are available for travel to the Solomon Islands, including tourist, work and business visas. Here are the most popular visas:- Tourist visa : This is the most popular visa, issued mainly to people wishing to visit the Solomon Islands for tourism purposes.
- Work visa : This visa is intended for foreigners wishing to work temporarily in the country. They must provide proof of employment and other documents required by the authorities.
- Business visa : For entrepreneurs and professionals wishing to carry out business activities in the Solomon Islands, this type of visa is required.
International tourism figures for the Solomon Islands
The number of international tourists visiting the Solomon Islands has grown steadily in recent years. Here are some key statistics concerning international tourism in the Solomon Islands:- About 30,000 international visitors arrived in the Solomon Islands in 2019, the majority of whom were tourists.
- The main sources of foreign tourists areAustraliathe New Zealandthe UNITED STATES and European countries.
- Revenues from tourism account for around 5% of GDP Solomon Islands.
- The tourism sector directly or indirectly employs nearly 10% of the working population of the country.
Government measures to support the tourism sector
To help the tourism industry recover, the Solomon Islands government has taken several measures, such as :- The implementation of strict sanitary protocols to ensure the safety of tourists and citizens.
- Granting financial aid to businesses in the tourism sector, including hotels, travel agencies and airlines.
- The development of national and international promotional campaigns to attract visitors again when travel restrictions are lifted.
Future prospects for tourism in the Solomon Islands
Future prospects for tourism in the Solomon Islands remain promising. Thanks to its rich natural and cultural heritage, the Solomon Islands will continue to attract many visitors in the years to come. What's more, the government is working to diversify the local economy by encouraging the sustainable and responsible development of the tourism sector.Tourist attractions in the Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands offer a wide variety of tourist attractions for all ages and tastes. Here are just a few of the must-see sites to discover on your next trip:- Honiara: The capital of the Solomon Islands is an ideal base from which to explore the archipelago. It offers many cultural and historical attractions, such as the National Museum, the Guadalcanal Memorial and the Central Market.
- Marovo National Park: Located on the island of Marovo, this park is renowned for its crystal-clear lagoons and white sandy beaches. It is an ideal setting for scuba diving, fishing and hiking.
- Florida Islands : This archipelago to the northeast of the capital is famous for its traditional Melanesian villages, pristine beaches and exceptional diving sites.
- Mount Popomanaseu: At over 2,300 metres, it is the highest point in the Solomon Islands. Its ascent offers breathtaking views of the majestic mountain range and surrounding jungle.