Solomon Islands

The Land of Jungles
and Jewels

Flag of Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, an archipelago in the South Pacific, is known for its beautiful lagoons, rich WWII history, and vibrant traditional culture. With over 900 islands, it offers diverse landscapes, including pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for diving and snorkeling.

The culture blends Melanesian, Polynesian, and Micronesian influences, celebrated through music, dance, and handcrafted carvings. Local cuisine centers on fresh fish, root vegetables, and tropical fruits. The Solomon Islands provide a peaceful escape, offering natural beauty, cultural depth, and a fascinating history.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-Solomon Islands citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into the Solomon Islands.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the Solomon Islands.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from nations such as Australia, New Zealand, the US, UK, Canada, and most EU countries can enter the Solomon Islands with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (visitor permit issued on arrival).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering the Solomon Islands.
  • Special Entry Provisions:
    • Holders of valid, multiple-entry visas from Australia or New Zealand (previously used in the issuing country) do not receive automatic exemptions but may use these to support visa applications.
    • No automatic entry provisions exist for Schengen, US, or UK visa/residence permit holders unless specified by bilateral agreements.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter the Solomon Islands using only a national ID card; a valid passport is mandatory for all.

Visa Types

  • Visitor Permit: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Issued on arrival for visa-exempt countries, single-entry.
  • Long-Term Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work or residency). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; a pre-arranged visa is required.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions at https://www.health.gov.sb/.
Toll

Driving in Solomon Islands

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, there are no toll roads in the Solomon Islands; roads are publicly funded and free to use.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Not applicable; no tolls exist. For road updates, visit the Solomon Islands Ministry of Infrastructure: https://www.mid.gov.sb/.
  • Payment Methods: Not applicable.

Driving in Solomon Islands

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants where fitted (many older vehicles lack them).
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: No major highways; typically 60 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution on rural roads, which are often unpaved, narrow, or affected by weather and logging traffic.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; short-term visitors can use a valid foreign license for up to 3 months with a local permit from the police.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: The Solomon Islands has no vignette or toll system; check road conditions at https://www.mid.gov.sb/.
  • Road Safety: Roads are basic; remain vigilant for potholes, pedestrians, and wet conditions, especially at night or in remote areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable outside Honiara; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for emergencies (limited coverage outside Honiara).

Useful Links

Solomon Islands Currency

The official currency of the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 SBD
  • Coins: 10, 20, 50 cents; 1, 2 SBD
  • Symbol: $ (sometimes written as SI$ to distinguish from other dollar-based currencies)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks (e.g., ANZ, BSP) in Honiara, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs available in Honiara for direct SBD withdrawals; scarce in rural areas.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in Honiara at hotels and larger stores; rare elsewhere.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Solomon Islands website: https://www.cbsi.com.sb/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Solomon Islands

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travelers in the Solomon Islands, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may lead to fines.
    • Smoking banned in some public spaces (e.g., government buildings).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect tribal customs (e.g., dress modestly, seek permission before entering villages).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal; public displays of affection can lead to legal issues and social disapproval.
  • Photography: Restricted near government or military sites; ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in rural areas.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L of spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over 50,000 SBD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle shells, coral).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline; customary land ownership may restrict some areas.

Key Resources

Solomon Islands Travel Safety

The Solomon Islands is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travelers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in the Solomon Islands.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like Honiara markets. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon but can occur in urban areas.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: The Solomon Islands is considered safe, with locals often welcoming; avoid isolated areas at night and travel with guides in rural regions.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to poor roads and wet conditions.
    • Avoid night driving outside Honiara.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory where available.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled or boiled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, typhoid, malaria prophylaxis (for rural areas).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use repellent for malaria, dengue, and Zika (prevalent in lowland areas).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; the highest point is 2,335 meters (Mount Popomanaseu), with minimal risk for tourists.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: National Referral Hospital in Honiara offers basic care; rural areas lack advanced facilities.
  • Pharmacies: Available in Honiara; carry essential medications for remote islands.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for outer islands.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (works for police, ambulance, and fire in Honiara).
  • Ambulance: 911 (Honiara) | Fire: 988 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Assistance: Contact local police or Visitors Bureau: +677 22442.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas; check insurance coverage.
  • Hiking: Use guides for trails (e.g., Mataniko Falls).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect kastom (customary law); seek permission for land access.
  • Air Quality: Generally good; monitor smoke from bushfires in dry seasons.

Key Links

Flying to Solomon Islands

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