Pacific Explorer
Pacific Islands Small Group Tour
Tour Overview
A unique opportunity to explore an amazing array of islands in the Pacific, which are some of the least visited nations and territories in the world, such as Kiribati. Though many of the 7 countries we discover can be visited individually, this is a rare chance to be able to explore the wider region, taking in Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. This is a tour for real travellers - those who have a passion for exploration and discovery - those who seek an adventure that is off the 'tourist trail' to places where few have been before. You should not come looking for 5-star resorts and high-speed wi-fi. Just be sure to come with a true sense of adventure and a great travel spirit.
Tour Highlights
• A comprehensive exploration of some of the smallest and most remote countries in the world
• A rare opportunity to join a group of fellow explorers and discover Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea
• Explore Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia
• Experience the diversity of the Pacific cultures
Tour Rating
To help our travellers choose the right tour for them we have applied a grading system of 1 to 5. Tours with a fitness level of 1 will generally be suitable for all ages and will not be particularly strenuous, whereas tours with a fitness level of 5 are likely to be physically challenging. To find out more please contact our well-travelled team who will often have first-hand experience of the destination.
Fitness
2/5
Unexplored
5/5
Culture
3/5
History
4/5
Wildlife
1/5
Tour Pace
3/5
Map + Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Nadi
Arrive in Nadi, the joining point of our tour. Check-in time is usually 1400hrs. Overnight Tanoa International Hotel or similar. No meals nor guided arrangements included today.
Fiji
The town of Nadi was established in 1947 as a "Government Station" on the higher grounds of Nadi and established itself as Fiji’s tourist hub in the 1960s. For most travellers Nadi is a transit point for other destinations in Fiji.
Day 2: Nadi
Today we take the “road less travelled’ into the heart of Fiji across the Sigatoka River (Fiji’s longest river) and head inland to learn more about the cannibalism history of the Naihehe Cave (Fiji’s largest cave system), and home to the Sautabu people during the days of tribal warfare. We have a BBQ lunch, and time for swimming before returning to the hotel. After a short rest, visit the Fiji Culture Village in Nacaqara Navo Nadi for walking tour to get a taste of Fijian cultures and learn more about the people, history and traditional crafts and arts. Try kava and lovo and watch Meke and Fire dance entertainment while interacting with villagers in a naturally beautiful setting. Overnight at Tanoa International Hotel or similar. (BLD)
[Samoa] Day 3: Nadi – Flight to Upolu
This morning visit the Garden of Sleeping Giant located at the foothills of Sabeto mountain range, home to Fiji’s largest collection of orchids, Vaseisei village, the legendary landing site of the first Fijians and Vuda Lookout which offers a 360 view of hills, and Yasawa and Mamanuca islands. If there’s time we may also take a short tour of a citrus farm and Namaka market. We then transfer to Nadi airport for a mid-afternoon flight to Apia, the island of Upolu, Samoa. Upon arrival we will be met and transferred to our hotel. Tonight, enjoy dinner and a cultural show at the hotel. Overnight Taumeasina Resort or similar (BD)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Nadi to Apia Dep. 12:55 Arv. 15:50 Fiji Airways – FJ255
Day 4: Upolu
Today we take a scenic tour of the Southeast of Upolu visiting Mulinuu historic monuments and parliament house. We then drive to the lookout for panoramic views of Apia Township, and head to Bahai Temple of worship and its gardens, Continue to Sopoaga Falls where you will be given a cultural demonstration before we head to Lalomanu beach for lunch and a swim. After lunch we visit To Sua Ocean Trench in Lotofaga Village. To Sua translates as ‘big hole’ – here you will see a natural deep swimming hole surrounded by lush tropical foliage where there is the option of a swim (must be able to climb down a 30m ladder). En route back to the hotel we stop at Le Mafa Pass (1700ft above sea level) which has breathtaking views of the East and South coastlines. Dinner and overnight at Taumeasina Resort or similar (BLD)
Day 5: Savaii - Tour of Savaii
Early pick up for departure on the 08:00 ferry to Savai’i. On arrival in Savai’i start a tour of the island including lunch. Highlights include the island’s colourful market, Taga Blowholes and surrounding area, tapa making demonstration and Afua’au falls. We stop for lunch at Vaisala Hotel and a swim before continuing our tour. Overnight Amoa Resort or similar (BLD)
Day 6: Apia Upolu
Drop off at Salelaloga for the 10am ferry back to Apia, Upolu. En route to the wharf we visit the landing site of missionaries and tomb of the last king of Samoa. On arrival back in Upolu we begin a tour of the West side of the island. After lunch we continue to Faleata Sports complex and a visit the Fugalei Food and Handicrafts market and the Cathedral. Overnight Insel Fehmarn Hotel or similar (BLD)
[Fiji] Day 7: Nadi
Watch Police Parade for raising of flight before driving 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. Continue to Mulinuu historic sites including Parliament House and the Court, and there is an opportunity for souvenirs. Lunch at Manai Restaurant before heading to the airport for a flight to Nadi. On arrival transfer to your hotel. Overnight Tanoa International Hotel or similar. (BL)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Apia to Nadi Dep. 16:55 Arv. 18:00 Fiji Airways – FJ254
[Kiribati] Day 8: Nadi – Kiribati
Today take a flight to Kiribati, another truly remote island nation, and one of the world’s smallest, situated in the middle of the Pacific. Fewer than 6,000 visitors make it here each year, making it the 4th least visited country in the world. This geographically isolated nation is untouched thanks to its seclusion and inaccessibility. Upon arrival at Bonriki International Airport, located on South Tarawa, we will be met and transferred to our accommodation on North Tarawa. We will stop by the museum as it is close to the airport and have a light lunch before heading to North Tarawa for overnight in traditional accommodation. Relax and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight Tabon Te Kee Kee Eco Lodge or similar. (LD)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Nadi to Tarawa Dep. 07:30 Arv. 10:35 Fiji Airways – FJ231
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.
Kiribati
The passing centuries have had little impact on Kiribati's outer islands, where people subsist on coconuts, and seafood. The country has a total land area of 800 sq. km (310 sq. mi) but, incredibly, its 33 atolls and islands are spread over 3.5 million sq. km (1,350,000 sq. mi) of ocean. In fact, Kiribati is the only country in the world to fall into all four hemispheres, straddling the equator and extending into the eastern and western hemispheres. Today’s climate change projections predict that the ocean could swallow this country whole by the end of the century.
Kiribati has been inhabited by Micronesians speaking the same Oceanic language thought to stretch as far back as 3000 BC. Throughout history arrivals from Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji have impacted the cultural landscape. Intermarriage tended to blur cultural differences and resulted in a significant degree of cultural homogenization. Within these islands a Micronesian culture developed, and it was also infused with elements from Polynesian and Melanesian societies. Chance visits by European ships occurred in the 17th and 18th centuries, as these ships attempted circumnavigation of the world, or sought sailing routes from the south to the north of the Pacific Ocean. Kiribati became independent from the United Kingdom in 1979, and today is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, the IMF and the World Bank, and became a full member of the United Nations in 1999.
The population is just over 130,000, 2/3 of whom live on Tarawa Atoll. This is one of the world's poorest and least developed countries and has few natural resources. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted at the time of independence, and today copra and fish represent the bulk of production and exports. In one form or another, Kiribati earns a large portion of its income from abroad (fishing licenses, development assistance, and worker remittances)
Day 9: North Tarawa – South Tarawa
After breakfast take a living cultural tour through the village of Abatao so see the old traditions in daily practice today. Visit the clam farm that spawns and grows exotic-coloured clams for aquariums worldwide. In the afternoon transfer to South Tarawa. Overnight Utirerei Hotel or similar (BL)
Day 10: South Tarawa
A whole day to discover South Tarawa and learn about the important role that the Battle of Tarawa played in WWII. Explore relics of the battle, view the landing sites, and visit memorials to the battle and the lives lost and hear the stories of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific during World War II. Overnight Utirerei Hotel or similar. (BL)
Day 11: South Tarawa
This morning is at leisure, or you can choose to visit a church service. During lunch experience I-Kiribati Traditional Dance show – the traditional dances of Kiribati or ‘te Mwaie ni Kiribati’ are a unique form of art and expression. The movement of the feet, hands and of course the whole body imitates the movement of the frigate bird and the Pacific golden plover bird while walking and flying. The afternoon is at leisure. Overnight Utirerei Hotel or similar (BL)
[New Caledonia] Day 12: Noumea, New Caledonia
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to Noumea, via Nadi. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight Hilton La Promenade or similar (B)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Tarawa to Nadi Dep. 11:50 Arv. 14:55 Fiji Airways – FJ250
Connection in Nadi
Nadi to Noumea Dep. 17:05 Arv. 18:15 Aircalin – SB331
New Caledonia
The third largest island in the Pacific after Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, New Caledonia, a dependent overseas territory of France is only 1,500 km east off the coast of Australia. Seeing this "terra incognita" in 1774, the British navigator James Cook found a similarity between the mountainous terrain of the Grande Terre and his native Scotland, whose former name was "Caledonia." From coast to coast, New Caledonia, stretches some 500 kilometres passing through the archipelago of Loyalty Islands, and is home to surprising and remarkably diverse landscapes. Principally a beach destination New Caledonia is a charming mix of French and Melanesian: warm hospitality sitting alongside European elegance, gourmet food served beneath palm trees, sand, resorts, and bungalows. Long gorgeous beaches form a backdrop to cafes and bars, with horizons displaying tiny islets, all of which attract day trippers.
Noumea
With its cheerful multi-ethnic community, New Caledonia’s cosmopolitan capital is sophisticated and uncomplicated, classy, and casual. The relaxed city sits on a large peninsula, surrounded by picturesque bays, and offers visitors a variety of experiences. Diners can eat out at sassy French restaurants hidden in Quartier Latin, dine at bold water-fronting bistros or grab a bargain meal from a nocturnal van in a car park.
Day 13, Noumea
Today we start with a tour of the city and a stop at the market before driving to the Tjibaou Cultural Centre for a 3.5hr guided tour. We visit the main points of interest including Forest Parc and the Maritime History Museum. Overnight Hilton La Promenade or similar (B)
[Vanuatu] Day 14: Noumea – Tanna Island
This morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Tanna Island via Port Vila. On arrival you will be transferred to your accommodation. On the afternoon of arrival into Tanna, we will take a 3-hour tour to visit the world’s largest Banyan tree and see a TOKA dance. Overnight at Evergreen Resort or similar (BL)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Noumea to Port Vila Dep. 08:50 Arv. 10:15 Air Vanuatu – NF065
Connection in Port Vila
Port Vila to Tanna Island Dep. 12:10 Arv. 12:50 Air Vanuatu – NF240
Note: Due to the small number of cars available, the tours on Tanna Island, provided by Evergreen Resort, may be shared with other tourists.
Vanuatu
With a population of approximately 221,000, Vanuatu boasts 113 distinct languages and innumerable dialects. This makes it one of the most culturally diverse countries on earth, a result of thousands of years of sporadic immigration from many Pacific countries. Over the millennia, natural boundaries such as large open stretches of water, dense jungle, and mountainous terrain, isolated many groups from each other, even those from the same ethnic origins. And isolation bred not just warfare, but quite different, sophisticated societies and political systems.
Day 15: Tanna Island Volcano
We start the day after breakfast with a 4WD journey across the island, and stop for a traditional welcome at historical weapons cave at Ash Plain village. We tour a cannibal village and visit Port Resolution’s black sand hot water beach. Around the cove we have a local lunch at the Best White Sandy Beach and swim and relax before heading for the twilight and night volcano experience of Yasur. Once we reach the summit it is a short 10-minute uphill walk to the rim of the crater where we will observe the awesome power of the world’s most accessible active volcano! This ancient volcano is conspicuously located in one of the most pristine and unspoiled courners of the globe. Late evening return to our accommodation Overnight Evergreen Resort or similar. (BL)
Day 16: Tanna – Port Vila
This morning we visit Louiniu primitive cultural village of the Yakel tribe where we spend 3 hours before heading to the airport for the short domestic flight to Port Vila. On arrival in the capital we visit the Museum and city Market before checking into our overnight accommodation. Overnight Holiday Inn Hotel or similar (B)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Tanna Island to Port Vila Dep. 13:30 Arv. 14:10 Air Vanuatu – NF241
Day 17: Port Vila
Enjoy breakfast before a circle tour of the island, starting at cultural village blue hole. After refreshments and lunch, continue to the airport for a late afternoon flight to Fiji where you will stay overnight before continuing the next morning to the Solomon Islands. Overnight Tanoa International Hotel or similar. (BL)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Port Vila to Nadi Dep. 16:40 Arv. 19:55 Fiji Airways – FJ262
[Solomon Islands] Day 18, Nadi – Honiara
Today we continue from Fiji on an early flight to Honiara, capital of the Solomon Islands. Upon arrival, we transfer to hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight Coral Sea Resort or similar. (BL)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Nadi to Honiara Dep. 08:15 Arv. 10:15 Solomon Airlines – IE703
Solomon Islands
Just 9 degrees south of the equator, the Solomon Islands are comprised of 992 islands, of which 147 are inhabited. These islands stretch 900 miles in a south-easterly direction from the Shortland Islands, on the border with Papua New Guinea, to the Santa Cruz Islands, which border Vanuatu. The archipelago covers an area of 461,000 sq. km made up of deeply forested mountainous islands and low-lying coral atolls. The Solomon Islands are part of the Melanesian group of islands that also includes Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and Fiji.
Archaeological and linguistic evidence shows that hunters and gatherers from Southeast Asia first settled the Solomon Islands, with seafarers following later, and it is believed that early Papuan speaking settlers began arriving around 3,000 BC. Austronesian speakers arrived in 4,000 BC. Today between 70 and 80 percent of the population live a subsistence way of life, often away from the main urban centres. The number of local languages listed for the Solomon Islands is greater than 75. Communal, clan and family ties remain strong in these islands with the existence of the Wantok system. A key part of the Melanesian culture, Wantok means people from the same language groups who are blood relatives and part of the extended family, support and assist one another. Traditional practices are still being followed, especially by those living in the interior of the country's larger islands. Off the beaten path, village life remains much as it has been for centuries. Entering the totally unique environment of the islands of the Solomons is a richly rewarding experience. Without doubt, this is one of the few remaining truly unspoilt tourist destinations left in the world.
Day 19: Honiara
The city tour to allow us to discover many points of scenic, cultural and historic interest about Honiara and the Solomon Islands. The Honiara central market is busy, colourful, and offers local produce and crafts, after which we will visit the Parliament House, built for the people of Solomon Islands. With a commanding position, the US Peace War Memorial was constructed in 1992 for the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal. It provides an excellent view of Iron Bottom Sound and the surrounding mountainous regions of Honiara and Guadalcanal. The small National Museum accommodates the diverse cultural artefacts of the Solomon Islands. Overnight Coral Sea Resort or similar. (BL)
Day 20: Honiara
Today take a cultural tour of Honiara, including a visit to Graceland Nature Park. Overnight Coral Sea Resort or similar (BL)
[Papua New Guinea] Day 21: Honiara – Port Moresby – Mount Hagen
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Mount Hagen, via Port Moresby. On arrival to Mount Hagen you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight McRoyal Mount Hagen or similar (B)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Honiara to Port Moresby Dep. 11:30 Arv. 12:50 Air Niugini – PX85
Port Moresby to Mount Hagen Dep. 15:20 Arv. 16:20 Air Niugini – PX188
Day 22: Mount Hagen – Mountain Tribes and Villages
Mount Hagen, the heart of the PNG highlands is famed for its fertile lands and mountain ranges, is home of the Melpa tribes. Today a journey through the traditions and customs of the Melpa people. The tour will bring you to local villages where the villagers will share their tribal traditions and daily customs. This area is also the home of the famous Polga mudmen, known for their unique bilas (traditional dress) and the ancient story that surrounds it. Aso visit the iconic Huli people at their local settlement in Mount Hagen. The Huli as their art, body decoration, face painting and human hair decorated with feathers, flowers and moss. These famous highland people are admired for their vibrant and colourfully decorate hair wigs and bilas Overnight McRoyal Mount Hagen or similar (BL)
Day 23: Western Highlands
Today take a cultural tour through the Western Highlands, visiting Avi Village known for the skeleton painting and their ritual dance performance. We will also visit Kopeng and Kolkui villages (please note that village visits may be changed very last minute to to events that may happen in the village such as a death or marriage. Visitors are not allowed into the village when this occurs and alternative arrangements will be made should this happen). Overnight McRoyal Mount Hagen or similar (BL)
Day 24: Mount Hagen - Port Moresby
This morning transfer to the airport for a short flight to Port Moresby. On arrival we take a city tour before heading to our hotel. The first stop is the National Museum and Art Gallery. We then visit the Nature Park to see the Bird of Paradise (national symbol) and other different species. Take a short boat trip around the stilt villages of Hanuabada, and from APEC house we head to the hotel, taking in all points of interest en route including House of Parliament and University of Papua New Guinea. Overnight Holiday Inn Resort or similar (B)
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Mount Hagen to Port Moresby Dep. 10:00 Arv. 11:15 Air Niugini – PX181
Day 25: Port Moresby
Today travel to Sogeri via the Bomana war cemetery, waterfalls and scenic lookout points. After lunch (at own expense) visit Sirinumu dam and National Park before returning to the hotel. Overnight Holiday Inn Resort or similar (B)
[Fiji] Day 26: Nadi
A very early transfer to the airport for a flight to Brisbane with an onward connection to Nadi. Overnight Tanoa International Hotel or similar.
Flight Schedule (subject to change)
Port Moresby to Brisbane Dep 06:30 Arv. 09:40 Air Niugini – PX003
Connection in Brisbane
Brisbane to Nadi Dep. 11:35 Arv. 17:10 Fiji Airways – FJ920
Day 27: Departure
You will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight. (B)
Tour Inclusions
Arrival and departure transfers
Overland transport throughout with professional driver
Domestic and regional flights as shown in the itinerary
All accommodation
Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader
Meals as listed
B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Feedback from our Travellers
Foreign Office Travel Warnings
Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.
We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to any of the countries that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.
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
At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals can enter most of the countries covered on this tour for a tourist visit without the need to obtain a visa. The one exception is Papua New Guinea for which it is normally possible to obtain an e-visa. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.
British Nationals - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
US Nationals - 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.
Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment.
As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.
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
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, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you are travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, travellers from the UK can refer to the guidance provided by the National Travel Health Network & Centre and published on the Travel Health Pro website. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you will need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory that you are 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.
Essential Info
