Oceania
Is Solomon Islands safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Solomon Islands safe?
Violent crime against visitors is rare, but robberies and sexual assaults have hit foreigners near Honiara, including at beaches. Malaria, crocodiles and unexploded WWII ordnance are distinctive risks.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2025-04-28.
- Homicide rate: 3.7 per 100,000 people (2008, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 16.5 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 999 · Ambulance 111 · Fire 988.
- Solo women: Women alone face the most risk of harassment and assault; avoid walking alone, isolated beaches and going out after dark in Honiara.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Malaria and dengue nationwide
- Crocodiles and sharks, even near Honiara
- Unexploded WWII ordnance around Honiara and New Georgia
- Overcrowded inter-island boats with limited rescue services
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
Safety by place in Solomon Islands
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Honiara | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
Quick answers
Is Solomon Islands safe for tourists?
Violent crime against visitors is rare, but robberies and sexual assaults have hit foreigners near Honiara, including at beaches. Malaria, crocodiles and unexploded WWII ordnance are distinctive risks.
Is Solomon Islands safe for solo female travelers?
Women alone face the most risk of harassment and assault; avoid walking alone, isolated beaches and going out after dark in Honiara.
What is the emergency number in Solomon Islands?
Police 999 · Ambulance 111 · Fire 988.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- Solomon Islands Immigration Division
- Smartraveller: Solomon Islands
- UK FCDO travel advice: Solomon Islands
- Tourism Solomons
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.