In a destination famous for WWII history, this is the one experience that lets you step straight into the living, beating heart of Solomon Islands culture – and it’s still one of Honiara’s best-kept secrets.
Hotomai Cultural Village is 100% authentic and community owned. Every dollar you spend goes straight back to the village – education, health, and keeping customs alive.
What’s exciting about this tour, You don’t just watch – you become part of it and actually do the things islanders have done for thousands of years: -Start a fire the ancient way (no matches allowed!) -Weave your own small basket to take home -Join the circle for powerful traditional dances and chants
When booking your...
Highlights
4 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
4 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Admission fee
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Mosquito repellent
Meeting Points
Departure
Commonwealth Street
From Point Cruz: Go to BSP Bank, cross the road, and walk to the Christmas trees by the road near the dock. Wait on the benches underneath.
From Ports/Dock: Walk past Unity Square toward the Scouts and Coast Watchers monument, then up the pavement to the Christmas trees. Wait on the benches there.
Return
Important Information
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
•
For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
•
Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
•
Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
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In a destination famous for WWII history, this is the one experience that lets you step straight into the living, beating heart of Solomon Islands culture – and it’s still one of Honiara’s best-kept secrets.
Hotomai Cultural Village is 100% authentic and community owned. Every dollar you spend goes straight back to the village – education, health, and keeping customs alive.
What’s exciting about this tour, You don’t just watch – you become part of it and actually do the things islanders have done for thousands of years: -Start a fire the ancient way (no matches allowed!) -Weave your own small basket to take home -Join the circle for powerful traditional dances and chants
When booking your...
Highlights
4 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
4 hours
Offered in English
Free Cancellation
Mobile Ticket
What's Included
Admission fee
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Mosquito repellent
Meeting Points
Departure
Commonwealth Street
From Point Cruz: Go to BSP Bank, cross the road, and walk to the Christmas trees by the road near the dock. Wait on the benches underneath.
From Ports/Dock: Walk past Unity Square toward the Scouts and Coast Watchers monument, then up the pavement to the Christmas trees. Wait on the benches there.
Return
Itinerary
1
Hotomai Cultural Village
- Authentic Birao cultural immersion
- Hands-on cultural activities:
- Traditional weaving workshops using local fibers to craft baskets and mats.
- Fire-making demonstrations and lessons in sustainable traditional cooking over open flames.
- Gardening sessions in community plots, showcasing ancient farming techniques.
- Interactive performances of traditional chants, songs, and dances – visitors can join in for a truly participatory experience.
- Sustainable and community-focused – 100% operated by local Birao villagers, with proceeds directly supporting cultural preservation, education, and well-being.
- Scenic and accessible location – Surrounded by lush rainforests and waterfalls, with easy access from Honiara; includes a guided village walk and optional add-ons like a shared traditional meal (featuring local staples like taro and fresh fish).
1 hour
2
Solomon Islands National Museum
Highlights you will explore:
- Traditional currency and shell money display (including rare Romu and Kakuru)
- Extensive collection of historic and contemporary weapons (spears, clubs, WWII relics)
- Archaeological section with Lapita pottery shards and ancient stone tools
- WWII exhibit with original photographs, uniforms, and personal stories from local scouts and coastwatchers
- Outdoor exhibit: traditional war canoes and a beautiful carved story-board wall
30 minutes
3
National Art Gallery
Highlights:
- Permanent collection of wood carvings, nguzunguzu (canoe prow figures), and kundu drums
- Rotating exhibitions by living Solomon Islands artists (painting, sculpture, basketry)
- The famous “Spirit of the Solomons” mural and contemporary pieces addressing climate change and cultural identity
- Small gift shop with high-quality, authentic handicrafts made by the artists themselves (better quality and fairer prices than most souvenir shops)
