Solomon Islands / Kingdom of Tonga / Puleʻanga Fakatuʻi ʻo Tonga – Let’s explore here

What’s it like in the Solomon Islands?

The Solomon Islands is located in the Pacific Ocean, north east of Australia, and east of Papua New Guinea. It consists of six major islands and almost 1,000 smaller islands, totalling an area about the size of Belgium.

The population is around 735,000 people (2023), about one in eight of whom live in the capital, Honiara; which is on the largest island, Guadalcanal. The islands have been settled since at least between 28,800 BC.

The highest mountain in the Solomon Islands is Mount Popomanaseu, a volcanic mountain located on Guadalcanal, at 7,661 ft (2,335m) above sea level.

A bit about the history of the Solomon Islands

Early History and Settlement

The Solomon Islands were first settled by Austronesian-speaking peoples around 3,000 years ago. The islands were part of the larger Austronesian migration across the Pacific, and the early inhabitants developed distinct societies with rich cultural traditions, relying on fishing, agriculture and navigation.

European Exploration and Contact

The first European to visit the Solomon Islands was Spanish navigator Álvaro de Mendaña in 1568. The islands were named after the biblical King Solomon due to the belief that they were rich in gold. Following this initial encounter, European interest in the islands grew, with occasional visits by missionaries, traders and explorers over the centuries.

Colonial Era

In the late 19th century, the Solomon Islands became a British protectorate, part of the British Empire’s expansion in the Pacific. During this period, the islands were introduced to Western education, religion and economic systems. The British administration maintained control until the mid 20th century, although the indigenous populations faced various hardships, including the spread of diseases and exploitation.

World War II and the Pacific Campaign

During World War II, the Solomon Islands became a significant battleground in the Pacific Theatre. The Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942–1943 was a major turning point, as US forces fought Japanese troops for control of the island. The war had a lasting impact on the region, with many remnants of the conflict, such as wreckage and abandoned military infrastructure, still visible today.

Independence and Modern Era

The Solomon Islands gained independence from Britain on July 7, 1978. The country became a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government, and the British monarch remains the ceremonial head of state, represented by a governor general. In the post independence period, the Solomon Islands faced political instability, including ethnic tensions, particularly between the islands of Guadalcanal and Malaita. This culminated in the tensions of the 1998–2003 civil conflict, known as the ‘Tensions’, which led to the involvement of Australian led peacekeeping forces under the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands. Since the end of the conflict, the Solomon Islands have made strides toward recovery, focusing on national reconciliation, economic development and strengthening democratic institutions. However, the country still faces challenges such as poverty, infrastructure development and maintaining political stability.

Solomon Islands road trip

We haven’t finished our planning for our road trip through the Solomon Islands yet. When we do though, we’ll post it here, and in the blog. 

Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂

Map of the Solomon Islands

What’s it like to drive in the Solomon Islands?

They drive on the left hand side of the road in the Solomon Islands. 

We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂

What currency do they use in the Solomon Islands?

In the Solomon Islands they use the Solomon Islands Dollar. The use of credit / debit cards is not widespread, you should take cash in more remote areas. Travellers cheques are only accepted in very touristy areas. There are only ATMs available in the main towns.

You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.

What language do they speak in the Solomon Islands?

They speak English and Pidgin in the Solomon Islands.

What time zone is the Solomon Islands in?

Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.

Do I need a visa to visit the Solomon Islands?

We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!

Is wild camping legal in the Solomon Islands?

No, wild camping is illegal in the Solomon Islands.

What plug / socket type do they use in the Solomon Islands?

In the Solomon Islands they use plug / socket types G and I.

Health issues in the Solomon Islands

Is it safe to drink water in the Solomon Islands?

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in the Solomon Islands. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country.

What vaccinations are required for the Solomon Islands?

This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in the Solomon Islands.

Phones in the Solomon Islands

What is the country calling code for the Solomon Islands?

The country calling code for the Solomon Islands is +677

What are the emergency phone numbers in the Solomon Islands?

• The emergency number for police in the Solomon Islands is: 999 / 911
• In the Solomon Islands, the emergency number for ambulance is: 999 / 911 / 111
• The emergency number for fire in the Solomon Islands is: 999 / 911 / 988

If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know! 

And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!