Oceania
Solomon Islands
Raw, rarely visited islands: WWII wrecks and battlefields around Honiara, superb diving at Marovo Lagoon and Gizo, and village stays. Tourism infrastructure is thin, malaria is widespread and travel means small planes and boats.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa31 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencySBDUS$1 ≈ SI$7.95Details
- Price level75%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType I, G220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency999Police 999 · Ambulance 111 · Fire 988
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink boiled, filtered or bottled water everywhere and avoid ice.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedNot recognised and socially unaccepted; avoid any public affection.Details
- DrivingOn the leftCarry an IDP with your home licence; after 3 months you need a local licence.
Where to go in Solomon Islands
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HoniaraCapital city | 3/5 | $1,760–2,770 | May–Oct | 18/100 |
When to visit Solomon Islands
May–October is drier and cooler, best for diving and travel. November–April is hotter and wetter, with cyclone risk.
Good to know
Entry
- Most visitors must now apply online for a Tourist Visa (US$100) before travel; a temporary grace period may still allow visas on arrival.
- Some passports are exempt under reciprocal agreements; check the Immigration Division before booking.
- Your passport needs 6 months' validity and 2 blank pages. Carry proof of measles vaccination or face a medical check.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Drinking or buying alcohol is illegal under 21
- Importing or possessing pornography is illegal
- Don't remove WWII relics; exporting them is illegal and some are live
Etiquette
- Ask permission, and expect a fee, before visiting villages, beaches or war sites
- Cover thighs; avoid shorts and bikinis in villages
- Don't swear in public; it causes serious offence and compensation claims
- Respect tabu sites, including skull shrines
Tipping
Not expected or customary.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Solomon Islands Immigration Division
- Smartraveller: Solomon Islands
- UK FCDO travel advice: Solomon Islands
- Tourism Solomons
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.