Rabaul Explorer

ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS

• Climb Mount Tavurvur and explore its dramatic volcanic landscape.
• Witness the spectacular Baining Fire Dance beneath the night sky.
• Explore Japanese WWII tunnels, underground hospital facilities and wartime bunkers.
• Discover Rabaul’s remarkable wartime and volcanic history.
• Visit the Kokopo War Museum and local markets.
• Experience dolphins in their natural environment on Blanche Bay.
• Visit a traditional East New Britain village and discover local customs, food preparation and cultural traditions.
• Relax at the beautiful Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

YOUR 5 DAY ADVENTURE

Day 1 – Welcome to East New Britain

Your adventure begins on arrival at Tokua Airport, where our local team will welcome you to East New Britain.

Transfer to Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, your tropical home for the next four nights.

Settle into your accommodation, relax beside the lagoon pool or enjoy the spectacular views across Blanche Bay towards the Duke of York Islands and Mount Tavurvur.

As the sun sets over the harbour, take in the atmosphere of this remarkable corner of Papua New Guinea.

Overnight: Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

Day 2 – Mount Tavurvur & The Baining Fire Dance

Today combines two of East New Britain’s most unforgettable experiences.

Before sunrise, depart for Mount Tavurvur, the volcano that dramatically reshaped Rabaul during the devastating 1994 eruptions.

Climb through the extraordinary volcanic landscape, taking in views of the surrounding caldera, steaming terrain and nearby hot springs.

Return to the resort late in the morning for some well-earned relaxation.

As evening approaches, travel into the Baining region for one of Papua New Guinea’s most extraordinary cultural performances.

The Baining Fire Dance.

Under the night sky, masked dancers representing forest spirits perform around and through blazing fires, accompanied by traditional rhythms and chants.

It is a powerful expression of cultural identity and a truly unforgettable experience.

Return to Kokopo later in the evening.

Overnight: Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

Day 3 – Rabaul’s Extraordinary WWII History

Today we explore the history that made Rabaul one of the most strategically important locations in the Pacific during World War II.

Following Japan’s capture of Rabaul in January 1942, the region became a major military and naval base, with an extensive network of underground tunnels, fortifications and defensive positions.

Our historical journey takes us through the Gazelle Peninsula and the remnants of this remarkable wartime landscape.

Highlights include:

• Kokopo War Museum and its collection of wartime relics.
• Japanese underground hospital facilities.
• Japanese submarine and barge tunnels.
• Admiral Yamamoto’s wartime bunker.
• Historical sites throughout the former town of Rabaul.
• Panoramic views from the Volcano Observatory area and Malmaluan Lookout.

Along the way, discover how war and volcanic eruptions shaped the communities and landscape of East New Britain.

Return to the resort for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

Day 4 – Dolphins, Village Life & Living Culture

Begin your morning on the waters of Blanche Bay, where dolphins are regularly encountered in their natural environment.

Watch these remarkable marine mammals as they swim and play in the tropical waters surrounding East New Britain.

Following breakfast, travel to a local village for an authentic cultural experience.

Meet members of the community and discover traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Learn about village gardens, traditional food preparation, shell money, weaving and the customs that remain central to daily life.

Experience traditional kaikai, prepared using heated stones, and enjoy the opportunity to speak with local people about their culture and way of life.

Return to Kokopo for your final evening overlooking the water.

Overnight: Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort.

Day 5 – Farewell to Rabaul

Enjoy a final tropical breakfast before transferring to Tokua Airport for your onward journey.

Leave East New Britain with memories of volcanic landscapes, remarkable history, extraordinary traditions and the warmth of Papua New Guinea’s people.