Pacific Islands Explorer – From Lost Cities to Living Cultures (Part 1)

Pacific Islands Explorer – From Lost Cities to Living Cultures (Part 1)

Duration
28 days
Group Size
8 people
Price
From £10995
Region
Islands
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Overview

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Arrival and departure transfers
All accommodation
Transport throughout
Services of local English-speaking guides <em>(please note that the group will travel unaccompanied between each island state. A local guide will be allocated in each island state for all sightseeing and excursions)|</em>All regional flights – as referred to in the itinerary
Meals as listed (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner)
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
International flights
Items of a personal nature
Travel Insurance
Visas, if required
Drinks
Tips (discretionary)
Covid-19 test/s and related procedures, if required

Tour Ratings

Fitness: 3/5
Unexplored: 4/5
Culture: 4/5
History: 3/5
Wildlife: 0/5
Tour-pace: 4/5
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Map and Tour Itinerary

This unique journey through the heart of the Pacific showcases some of the region’s most remote and little-visited nations. From the mysterious ruins of Nan Madol in Micronesia and the phosphate pinnacles of Nauru, to the wartime history of Tarawa in Kiribati, the tour combines cultural encounters with poignant history. In Samoa, explore Robert Louis Stevenson’s former home, vibrant markets, and spectacular natural landscapes, before discovering the unspoiled beaches and ancient traditions of Tonga. The adventure concludes in Fiji, where time is set aside to relax and reflect on an extraordinary voyage through the islands of the South Pacific.

Itinerary Highlights
Wander the Lost City of Nan Madol

Discover the mystical, ancient stone city of Nan Madol in Pohnpei, once the spiritual and political centre of the Saudeleur Dynasty.

Explore the Forgotten Island Nation of Nauru

Experience the world’s third smallest country with a circle island tour, visiting surreal phosphate pinnacles, Buada Lagoon and colonial relics.

Experience Cultural Immersion Across Remote Micronesia and Polynesia

Engage with local traditions in Kiribati, Samoa and Tonga – from WWII history and sacred battle sites to firewalking villages and Tongan feasts.

[Australia] Day 1: Arrive in Brisbane

Arrive in Brisbane and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. No meals or activities included today. Overnight Novotel Brisbane Airport or similar.

If you would like to spend longer in BNE, we can look at alternative accommodation.

[Micronesia] Day 2: Brisbane – Pohnpei

The day is at leisure until your overnight flight to Pohnpei, Micronesia

Suggested flight – Nauru Airlines ON41 dep. 2215, arr. 1130+1

[Micronesia] Day 3: Arrive Pohnpei

On arrival in Pohnpei you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon visit the ruins of Nan Madol, once the ceremonial and political hub of the Saudeleur Dynasty. The evening is at leisure. You may wish to visit the Hideaway restaurant for dinner (payable locally) before returning to the hotel. Overnight Island Palms Hotel or similar.

[Micronesia – Nauru] Day 4: Fly to Nauru

This morning we drive through Kolonia past colonial landmarks including the German Bell Tower, Spanish Wall and Kolonia downtown before heading to the airport for your flight to Nauru.

Suggested flight – Nauru Airlines ON42 dep. 1150, arr. 1935

On arrival in Nauru you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight Menen Hotel or similar (B)

[Nauru] Day 5: Nauru Circle Tour

Today we explore Nauru. Highlights include Buada Lagoon, the Coral Pinnacles of Nauru’s phosphate era along the coast, as well as exploring where phosphate was mined. We also see the Government building and commercial centre of Nauru. There will be a lunch stop during the tour (payable locally). Overnight Menen Hotel or similar (B)

[Kiribati] Day 6: Nauru – Tarawa

Early morning transfer for your flight to Tarawa, Kiribati.

Suggested flight – Nauru Airlines ON23 dep. 0515, arr. 0630

On arrival in Tarawa you will be met and taken on a city tour of South Tarawa, home to the largest concentration of the population, the seat of government and commercial centres. We then explore the sites and hear the stories of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific during World War II. Explore relics of the battle, view the landing sites, and visit memorials to the battle and the lives lost. You will then transfer to North Tarawa for an overnight stay at the eco-lodge. Overnight at Tabontekeeke Lodge or similar (LD)

Note: Accommodation at Tabon Te Kee Kee Eco Lodge consists of traditional style buias (huts) which offer simplistic, comfortable living.

Each hut is a pandanus wood structure with a locally thatched roof and raised floor, ideally suited to the island climate with cooling ocean breezes and shade. Most buias are land-based. In addition, there are 2 overwater buias to accommodate couples and larger parties which subject to availability maybe allocated to the group. Kindly note that we are unable to guarantee a particular type of buias in advance of your arrival.

[Samoa] Day 7: Tarawa – Apia, Upolu, Samoa

After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Apia, Samoa via Nadi.

Suggested flight – Fiji Airways FJ230 dep. 1150, arr. 1455

Arrive in Nadi where you will be transferred to the Gateway Hotel for a day-use room before heading back to the airport for the flight to Apia. (B)

Suggested flight – Fiji Airways FJ253 dep. 2215, arr. 0110+1

[Samoa] Day 8: Apia, Upolu

Early arrival into Apia where you will be met and transferred to the hotel. After some rest and breakfast, you will be picked up around 1030 to drive to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Museum.  Situated in the hills south of Apia, and originally his home, this museum with its spectacular setting, showcases and preserves the memories and lifestyle that drew him and his family to Samoa.  We then visit the Samoa Cultural Village including tattooing, traditional cloth making (siapo), traditional dancing and cooking. Overnight Taumeasina Hotel or similar (B)

[Samoa] Day 9: Savaii

Early pick up (approx. 0630) for departure on the 08:00 ferry to Savai’i. On arrival in Savai’i start a tour of the island. Highlights include the island’s colourful market, Taga Blowholes and surrounding area, tapa making demonstration and Afua’au falls. We return to our hotel. Overnight Taumesina Hotel or similar (BL)

[Samoa] Day 10: Apia, Upolu

Today’s full-day tour explores the scenic and cultural highlights of South West Upolu. After departing from Taumeasina, you’ll travel west to snorkel at the Giant Clams Sanctuary, followed by a coastal walk and swim at Togitogiga National Reserve and Waterfall. Enjoy free time for lunch (payable locally) and a beach swim at Sinalei Reef Resort before continuing across the island to see Papapapaitai Falls, the Bahai Temple and gardens, and the largest traditional Samoan house at the National University. The tour concludes with panoramic views over Apia and a short shopping stop at the local bus terminal and market.. Overnight at Taumeasina Resort or similar (B)

[Tonga] Day 11: Apia, Upolu – Tonga

Early transfer to the airport for your flight to Tonga, via Nadi.

Suggested flight – Fiji Airways FJ852, dep. 0450, arr. 0555

Arrive in Nadi where you will be transferred to the Gateway Hotel or Tanoa International for a day-use room before heading back to the airport for the flight to Tonga. Breakfast will be available at the Fiji hotel.

 Suggested flight – Fiji Airways FJ211, dep. 1330, arr. 1555

On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where the evening is at leisure. Overnight Tanoa Dateline Hotel or similar (B)

[Tonga] Day 12: Tonga – Pagaimotu Island

Enjoy a relaxing day at Pagaimotu Island, just a 15-minute boat ride from Tongatapu. Spend time on the white sandy beach, swim in crystal-clear waters, and unwind beneath the coconut trees. Optional activities include kayaking and snorkelling, with equipment available to hire for T$50. Boats depart Faua Wharf at either 1000 or 1100, returning 1600 or 1700hrs. Bring a change of clothes, reef shoes, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, bottled water, and any food or drinks you may need. A packed lunch can be pre-ordered through your hotel.  Overnight Tanoa Dateline Hotel or similar (BL

[Tonga] Day 13: Tonga

Today take a tour of Ancient Tonga. During the tour, try your hand at preparing the traditional Lu, cooked in the Umu (heated volcanic rocks), learn mat-making techniques, taste traditional Tongan Kava, learn about traditional Tongan beauty product and medical techniques and then sit down to enjoy the Lu you prepared earlier. Overnight Tanoa Dateline Hotel or similar (BL)

[Tonga] Day 14: Tonga

Today we tour Tonga taking in its historical and archaeological sites as well as the Abel Tasman landing. Overnight Tanoa Dateline Hotel or similar (BL)

[Fiji] Day 15: Tonga – Nadi, Fiji

At leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Nadi.

Suggested flight –

Fiji Airways FJ210, dep. 1625, arr. 1700

 On arrival transfer to your hotel. Overnight Tanoa International Hotel or similar (B)

Day 16: Departure from Nadi

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight (B)

Download the Information Pack

To download the tour full dossier, which includes a complete day-by-day itinerary breakdown and detailed tour information, fill in the details below.

Dates and Prices


Tour Code Start End Trip Status Pricing Per person
PIO/170626 Jun 17, 2026

Wednesday

Jul 02, 2026

Thursday

Guaranteed £10,995.00


Single Room Supplement: £1,500.00
PIO/230926 Sep 23, 2026

Wednesday

Oct 08, 2026

Thursday

Guaranteed £13,450.00


Single Room Supplement: £1,500.00

Feedback from our Travellers

Essential Info

Foreign Office Travel Warnings

We constantly monitor the advice posted by the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At the time of writing the Foreign and Commonwealth Office does not advise against travel to any of the countries or areas that we visit on this tour.

It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.

Visa Information

Please note that all information is provided for guidance only and is subject to change.

Nauru

Most nationalities require a visa for entering Nauru. Please visit the Nauru’s Government website for the latest updates on the visa requirements – http://www.nauru.gov.nr/about-nauru/visiting-nauru/visa-requirements.aspx

Tonga

UK, US, Canadian, Australian and most EU citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 30 days.

Kiribati

UK, US, Canadian, Australian and most EU citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 30 days.

Samoa

UK, US, Canadian, Australian and most EU citizens do not require a visa for a stay of up to 60 days.

As regulations can frequently change, it is the responsibility of all travellers to check the very latest requirements at the time of booking, upon making any balance payments and again no later than four weeks before departure. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.

British Nationals – www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

US Nationals – https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html

Australian Nationals – www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.

Passports

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.

We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.

For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

Vaccinations & Protection

As with travel to most parts of East Africa and the Indian Ocean, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month you maybe advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent may also be recommended.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.

Local Conditions

When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like.

The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.

Safety Perception in the South Pacific

The South Pacific Islands are generally safer travel destinations than most places in the world, and the locals are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet. But, as when travelling anywhere on the planet, it pays to use a little common sense. Exercise normal safety and security precautions as you travel around the South Pacific. General travel advice in parts of the Pacific can been as socially conservative – particularly outside the tourist and resort areas.

Even in the larger cities, assaults and violent crime are uncommon, but they do occur. Play it safe when walking around at night: stick to well-lit areas where there are other people are hanging around and avoid situations where you might be vulnerable.

You won’t see many local ladies travelling solo, but the South Pacific is generally a safe and respectful region for visiting women to navigate alone.

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