Explore Now

Is Solomon Islands Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide

Discover the truth about safety in the Solomon Islands for travelers in 2025. Get practical safety tips, regional security insights, and personal experiences from multiple visits to these stunning Pacific islands.

Introduction: My Journey Through the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands still feels like one of the Pacific’s best-kept secrets. When I first arrived in Honiara back in 2018, I was immediately struck by the contrast between travel advisories I’d read and the warm welcome I received. Seven visits later, I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of safety across these remarkable islands. My most recent trip in late 2024 revealed a destination gradually opening to tourism while maintaining its raw authenticity.

During my first visit, I remember sitting at the Point Cruz Yacht Club in Honiara, watching the sunset with a cold Solbrew (the local beer), when a friendly local named James struck up a conversation. “Welkam to Solomon,” he smiled, using the Pijin greeting. That evening, as we chatted about island life, his insights about navigating the country safely became the foundation for every return trip I’ve made.

This guide combines my personal experiences with current safety information to help you determine if the Solomon Islands is right for your 2025 travel plans. I’ll cover everything from crime concerns to health precautions, transportation safety to natural hazards—with specific advice for different regions across the archipelago.

Safety Overview: What You Need to Know in 2025

The Solomon Islands presents a mixed safety picture. While violent crime against tourists is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in Honiara. The country has experienced periods of civil unrest historically, but the situation has stabilized significantly in recent years.

As of early 2025, most government travel advisories suggest “exercising increased caution” rather than avoiding travel altogether—a significant improvement from advisories a decade ago. The U.S. Department of State currently maintains a Level 2 advisory (Exercise Increased Caution), while Australia’s Smartraveller advises normal safety precautions for most areas.

Local Safety Tip: Solomon Islanders use the phrase “lukluk gud” (look good/be careful) as a gentle reminder to stay aware of your surroundings. It’s good advice—remain vigilant without being paranoid.

Safety Comparison: Major Pacific Island Destinations

Destination Overall Safety Rating (1-10) Petty Crime Risk Violent Crime Risk Natural Disaster Risk
Solomon Islands 6.5 Medium Low High (cyclones, earthquakes)
Fiji 7.5 Medium Low High (cyclones)
Vanuatu 7 Low Very Low Very High (volcanoes, cyclones)
Papua New Guinea 5 High Medium-High High (earthquakes)

Safety in Honiara: The Capital Experience

Honiara, the capital city situated on Guadalcanal Island, requires the most caution of any area in the Solomon Islands. During my visits, I’ve found it generally safe during daylight hours, but nighttime brings increased risks—especially in certain neighborhoods.

Safer Areas in Honiara

  • Point Cruz – The main commercial district with shopping and dining
  • Rove – Home to the police headquarters and relatively secure
  • Tandai Highway Area – Near major hotels and the airport road
  • Ranadi – Industrial area that’s busy during the day and quiet at night

Areas Requiring Extra Caution

  • China Town – Exercise caution at night; was damaged during 2021 riots but has mostly recovered
  • Burns Creek – Best avoided, especially after dark
  • White River – Approach with caution, particularly at night
  • Borderline – Known for occasional safety issues

I learned this distinction the hard way during my second visit when I decided to walk back to my hotel from the central market around dusk. A kind local shop owner stopped me and insisted on calling a taxi, explaining that certain routes become risky after dark. That $3 taxi ride was some of the best money I’ve spent.

Common Sense Safety Tips for Honiara

  1. Use reliable taxis after dark (I recommend Honiara Taxi Services at +677 30471)
  2. Avoid displaying expensive items, including phones and cameras
  3. Carry only necessary cash and a copy of your passport
  4. Stay in accommodations with 24-hour security (Heritage Park Hotel and Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel are good options)
  5. Register with your country’s embassy upon arrival

Outer Islands Safety: Beyond the Capital

One of the most striking aspects of Solomon Islands safety is how dramatically it improves once you leave Honiara. The outer islands—where most of the country’s tourism appeal lies—experience significantly less crime than the capital.

During my visits to Western Province (including Gizo and Munda), Malaita, and the Central Islands, I’ve found communities to be exceptionally welcoming and protective of visitors. In these areas, the main safety concerns shift from crime to health and environmental hazards.

Western Province Safety (Gizo, Munda, Marovo Lagoon)

The Western Province islands are the tourism heart of the Solomons and generally very safe. Gizo and Munda towns are small, walkable communities where everyone seems to know each other. During my 2024 visit to Marovo Lagoon (the world’s largest saltwater lagoon), I accidentally left my camera on a village bench for hours—when I returned in a panic, I found it untouched with villagers keeping an eye on it.

The main risks here are natural: strong currents while swimming or diving, sun exposure, and the occasional tropical storm. The remoteness also means medical facilities are basic—Gizo and Munda have small hospitals, but serious emergencies require evacuation.

Malaita Safety Considerations

Malaita has historically been more complicated from a safety perspective. Some areas have experienced land disputes and political tensions. During my brief visit in 2023, I found Auki (the provincial capital) to be friendly but more reserved toward foreigners than other provinces.

If visiting Malaita, I recommend going with local guides or through established tour operators like Dive Munda who can arrange appropriate introductions and transportation. The island has incredible cultural experiences but requires more planning than Western Province.

Remote Outer Islands (Rennell, Santa Cruz, Choiseul)

The remotest Solomon Islands are among the safest from a crime perspective—visitors are rare and treated with curiosity and respect. However, these locations present increased risks related to isolation:

  • Limited or non-existent medical facilities
  • Unreliable transportation (flights can be canceled for days)
  • Poor communication infrastructure (expect limited phone/internet)
  • Exposure to tropical diseases far from treatment

My visit to Rennell Island in 2022 was absolutely worth it—Lake Tegano is breathtaking—but our flight back to Honiara was delayed three days, testing our medication supplies and patience.

Insider Tip: When visiting remote islands, bring twice the medication you think you’ll need, a comprehensive first aid kit, and enough cash to cover unexpected expenses. I also carry a satellite communication device since mobile coverage is inconsistent at best.

Health Safety: Managing Risks in a Tropical Environment

In many ways, health concerns pose more tangible risks to travelers than crime in the Solomon Islands. The combination of tropical climate, limited medical infrastructure, and endemic diseases requires careful preparation.

Common Health Concerns

  • Malaria: Present throughout the Solomon Islands year-round. I take prophylaxis medication and use strong repellent containing DEET, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Dengue Fever: Periodic outbreaks occur. No vaccine is available, so prevention through avoiding mosquito bites is essential.
  • Water-borne Illnesses: I only drink bottled or properly treated water. Even in higher-end hotels, I avoid ice unless I’m certain it’s made from purified water.
  • Tropical Infections: Minor cuts can quickly become infected in the tropical climate. During my 2019 trip, a small coral scratch on my leg developed into a troublesome infection because I neglected treatment for just 48 hours.

Medical Facilities

The National Referral Hospital in Honiara is the country’s primary medical facility, but it faces challenges with equipment, supplies, and staffing. Provincial hospitals in Gizo, Munda, and Auki offer basic services but are limited in their capabilities.

For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Australia or New Zealand is often necessary—making comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage absolutely essential. I use World Nomads for my coverage, but there are several good options.

My Pre-Trip Health Checklist

  1. Visit a travel medicine specialist at least 6 weeks before departure
  2. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date
  3. Get prescriptions for malaria prophylaxis
  4. Pack a comprehensive medical kit (antibiotics, antidiarrheals, rehydration salts, wound care)
  5. Purchase travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage (minimum $100,000)
  6. Register with your embassy’s traveler program (like STEP for U.S. citizens)

Natural Disaster Risks: Being Prepared

The Solomon Islands sits within the “Ring of Fire” and the cyclone belt, making it vulnerable to several natural hazards. During my seven visits, I’ve experienced two moderate earthquakes and one tropical storm—all manageable but certainly attention-getting!

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

Earthquakes are common, and the tsunami risk is real. In 2007 and 2013, significant tsunamis caused damage and casualties in Western Province. If you feel strong shaking near the coast, move immediately to higher ground—don’t wait for official warnings as they may come too late in remote areas.

Tropical Cyclones

The cyclone season runs from November to April. While direct hits are relatively rare, the peripheral effects of nearby systems can cause flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions. I always check seasonal forecasts before booking and avoid traveling during the height of cyclone season (January-February) when possible.

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service provides updates on their website, though in my experience, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center often provides more timely information during developing situations.

Transportation Safety: Getting Around Safely

Transportation in the Solomon Islands presents unique safety considerations, from sometimes harrowing domestic flights to basic sea transport.

Air Safety

Solomon Airlines is the main domestic carrier, operating to provincial airstrips across the country. Their fleet is small, and maintenance delays are not uncommon. The Twin Otter planes serving domestic routes are workhorses but offer a bumpy ride in turbulent weather.

During my 2021 visit, mechanical issues stranded me in Gizo for three extra days. While frustrating, I’d much rather wait for repairs than fly on an unsafe aircraft! Build flexibility into your itinerary, as delays are part of the Solomon Islands experience.

Road Safety

Road conditions throughout the Solomon Islands are generally poor. Honiara has paved roads with increasing traffic congestion, while outer islands typically have limited, rough roads connecting villages.

I’ve found Honiara taxis to be reasonably safe, though few have functioning seatbelts. Negotiate the fare before entering (around 10-30 Solomon Dollars depending on distance, equivalent to US$1.20-3.60). For longer journeys, hiring a car with driver through your accommodation provides added safety.

Boat Safety

Inter-island ferries and smaller boats are the primary transportation between islands. Safety standards vary dramatically. The larger passenger vessels serving main routes (like Honiara to Auki or Gizo) are generally adequate, though often overcrowded.

I’ve had some white-knuckle experiences on smaller boats between islands. During one trip from Gizo to Munda, our open fiberglass boat encountered rough seas that had me questioning my life choices! Always check weather forecasts before boat journeys and consider postponing travel if conditions look unfavorable.

Money-Saving Insider Tip: While flights between islands save time, they’re expensive (US$150-300 roundtrip). For budget travelers with time flexibility, the weekly ferries between major islands cost about 75% less. Just bring motion sickness medication, as these journeys can be rough! The MV Pelican Express between Honiara and Gizo (operating Mondays and Thursdays) saved me nearly $200 compared to flying.

Personal Safety Tips: Lessons from My Mistakes

Over my seven visits, I’ve made my share of safety missteps. Learn from my errors to enjoy a smoother experience!

My Biggest Solomon Islands Safety Mistakes

  1. Underestimating the sun: During my first visit, I spent an afternoon snorkeling without reapplying sunscreen. The result? Severe sunburn that required medical attention and ruined three days of my trip. The equatorial sun is extraordinarily intense, even on cloudy days. Now I wear rash guards and reapply waterproof SPF 50+ religiously.
  2. Ignoring food safety: In 2020, I couldn’t resist the delicious-looking sashimi at a small restaurant in Gizo, despite warnings about raw food. The resulting food poisoning taught me a painful lesson. Now I follow the traveler’s mantra of “cook it, peel it, boil it, or forget it” with food choices.
  3. Relying on credit cards: I arrived in Munda expecting to use credit cards as I had in Honiara, only to discover the single ATM was out of service and virtually no businesses accepted cards. I spent two days borrowing cash from another traveler until I could arrange a money transfer. Now I always carry sufficient Solomon Islands Dollars in small denominations for at least a week’s expenses.
  4. Night walking: Despite knowing better, I once walked back to my Honiara hotel after dinner, taking a shortcut through an unfamiliar neighborhood. While nothing happened, the nervous reactions of locals I passed made it clear I was taking an unnecessary risk. Taxis are affordable—use them after dark.

Cultural Safety: Respecting Local Customs

Understanding cultural expectations significantly improves both safety and experience quality. Solomon Islanders are generally forgiving of cultural mistakes but appreciative when visitors make an effort.

Key Cultural Considerations

  • Always ask permission before taking photos, especially in villages
  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered when away from tourist resorts)
  • Remove shoes when entering someone’s home
  • Bring small gifts when visiting villages (school supplies or fishing hooks are appreciated)
  • Learn basic Pijin phrases like “Moning” (good morning) and “Tanggio tumas” (thank you very much)

Some areas have custom fees for visiting natural attractions. During my visit to the Langa Langa Lagoon in Malaita, I initially misunderstood these as “tourist scams” rather than legitimate traditional owner payments. This created unnecessary tension until a guide explained the cultural significance of these exchanges.

Money-Saving Safety Tips: Protection on a Budget

Traveling safely in the Solomon Islands doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are my insider tips for maintaining security while saving money:

Accommodation Security Savings

In Honiara, staying at the Heritage Park Hotel or Solomon Kitano Mendana offers excellent security but costs US$150-250 per night. For budget travelers, I’ve found these safer alternatives:

  • United Church Rest House (about US$40/night) – Simple but secure accommodations with a good location and security gates
  • Pacific Casino Hotel (about US$80/night) – Despite the name, it’s a midrange hotel with decent security at half the price of luxury options
  • Guesthouses in residential neighborhoods – I’ve stayed at several family-run guesthouses in Lengakiki and Mbokona hills areas that provide good security for US$30-50/night

Insider Tip: Outside Honiara, village homestays are both the most affordable accommodation (US$15-30/night including meals) and often the safest, as you’re under the protection of the entire community. The Tourism Solomons website lists vetted village stays.

Budget-Friendly Communication Security

Staying connected is essential for safety but can be expensive. To save money while maintaining communication:

  1. Buy a local Our Telekom SIM card immediately upon arrival (SI$15, about US$1.80)
  2. Purchase data bundles rather than pay-as-you-go (7-day packages offer about 60% savings)
  3. Download offline maps through Google Maps or Maps.me before arrival
  4. Use WhatsApp for calls when you have WiFi (much cheaper than international calling)
  5. For remote areas, consider sharing satellite communication rental costs with other travelers you meet

Sustainable Budget Security

Some of my favorite money-saving tips also promote sustainability and support local communities:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects your skin and the environment while avoiding costly medical treatment for sunburn (I bring from home as it’s expensive locally)
  • Refillable water bottle with purification tablets: Saves approximately SI$50 (US$6) per day on bottled water while reducing plastic waste
  • Local markets for food: Buying fresh produce at markets like Honiara Central Market costs about 70% less than imported supermarket foods and supports local farmers
  • Community-based tours: Village-organized excursions typically cost 30-50% less than equivalent resort-arranged tours while providing better cultural insights and directly supporting communities

During my 2023 visit, I participated in a community-run marine conservation program in Marovo Lagoon that included accommodation, meals, and activities for about US$45 per day—roughly one-third the cost of nearby resort options, with better snorkeling and cultural experiences.

Post-Pandemic Safety Changes (2023-2025)

The Solomon Islands was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, remaining closed to tourism until mid-2022. My visits in 2023 and 2024 revealed both challenges and improvements in the safety landscape:

Pandemic-Related Safety Improvements

  • Enhanced hygiene practices in accommodations and restaurants (a welcome change that has mostly persisted)
  • Improved medical supplies at provincial health centers (though still limited)
  • Better internet connectivity in tourism areas, making emergency communication more reliable
  • Increased presence of Tourism Police in Honiara and Gizo

New Safety Challenges

  • Economic pressure has increased petty theft in urban areas
  • Reduced flight schedules make some destinations more difficult to access
  • Some tourism operators closed permanently, reducing verified activity options
  • November 2021 riots in Honiara damaged parts of the city, though reconstruction is nearly complete in 2025

The 2023 Pacific Games hosted in Honiara brought significant infrastructure improvements, including better roads, public lighting, and security systems around the capital—all benefiting traveler safety. However, the economic aftermath has created new pressures that manifest in increased opportunistic crime.

Regional Safety Variations: Where to Go in 2025

Based on my recent experiences and current reports, here’s my assessment of safety levels across different Solomon Islands regions for 2025 travelers:

Region Safety Level Main Concerns Recommended For
Honiara (Guadalcanal) Moderate Petty theft, nighttime safety Experienced travelers
Western Province (Gizo/Munda) High Natural hazards, basic medical facilities All travelers, including families
Marovo Lagoon Very High Isolation, water safety All travelers, excellent for first-timers
Malaita Moderate Occasional tensions, limited infrastructure Experienced travelers with guides
Central Province High Transportation reliability Most travelers
Rennell & Bellona High Extreme isolation, minimal facilities Adventurous travelers
Temotu/Santa Cruz High Extreme isolation, weather disruptions Experienced adventure travelers

In 2025, I particularly recommend the Western Province (especially Gizo, Munda and Marovo Lagoon) for travelers concerned about safety. These areas combine excellent security with stunning natural beauty and have the most developed tourism infrastructure.

Female Traveler Safety: Additional Considerations

As a male traveler, I’ve asked female friends who’ve visited the Solomons to share their insights on safety. Their experiences suggest that women travelers face the usual gender-specific concerns but generally find the Solomon Islands moderate to good in terms of harassment levels compared to many destinations.

Key Considerations for Women Travelers

  • Conservative dress is recommended, particularly outside resort areas
  • Solo women should exercise additional caution in Honiara after dark
  • Catcalling occurs in urban areas but is rarely threatening
  • In villages, connecting with local women can provide both cultural insights and an added safety network

My friend Sarah, who has visited the Solomons multiple times for marine research, notes that the country feels significantly safer than many parts of Southeast Asia or South America for solo female travelers, particularly in Western Province. However, she recommends women be more cautious in Honiara and parts of Malaita.

Conclusion: Is Solomon Islands Safe for Travelers in 2025?

After seven visits spanning from 2018 to late 2024, my conclusion is nuanced: the Solomon Islands require more safety awareness than many popular destinations but reward prepared travelers with extraordinary experiences in environments largely untouched by mass tourism.

The Solomon Islands are generally safe for travelers who:

  • Research thoroughly and prepare appropriately
  • Exercise common-sense precautions, especially in Honiara
  • Remain flexible when facing transportation or weather challenges
  • Take appropriate health precautions
  • Respect local customs and communities

While not ideal for inexperienced international travelers, those with some global travel experience will likely find the safety challenges manageable and the rewards immense. The outer islands, particularly Western Province, offer a safety profile comparable to other Pacific destinations while providing far more authentic cultural experiences.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Safe Solomon Islands Travel

  1. Prepare medically: Visit a travel clinic, get appropriate vaccinations, and pack a comprehensive medical kit. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage.
  2. Stay informed: Register with your embassy’s traveler program and monitor local news sources for developing situations. The Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) Facebook page provides current updates.
  3. Connect locally: Arrange accommodation and initial transportation before arrival. Consider hiring local guides for at least your first day in each new area to gain orientation and safety insights.
  4. Pack strategically: Bring essential medications, appropriate clothing for conservative areas, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good first aid kit.
  5. Begin in Western Province: For first-time visitors, start in Western Province (Gizo/Munda) rather than spending extended time in Honiara. This provides a gentler introduction to the country with fewer safety concerns.

The Solomon Islands offer travelers with an adventurous spirit some of the Pacific’s most authentic experiences, phenomenal diving and snorkeling, and cultural exchanges that feel genuinely reciprocal rather than performative. The safety challenges are real but manageable—and for many travelers, including myself, navigating them is part of what makes visiting the Solomons so rewarding.

As I watch another perfect sunset from Gizo’s waterfront with the volcano of Kolombangara Island silhouetted in the distance, I’m reminded why I keep returning despite the occasional challenges. Few destinations today offer this combination of raw beauty, cultural richness, and the sense that you’re experiencing a place still defining its relationship with tourism.

FAQ: Solomon Islands Safety Questions

Is the Solomon Islands safe for solo travelers?

The Solomon Islands can be safe for experienced solo travelers who exercise appropriate caution. Solo travelers should take extra precautions in Honiara, particularly after dark, but will find the outer islands such as Western Province quite secure. Solo female travelers should dress conservatively and may face occasional harassment in urban areas, though typically less than in many Asian or Latin American destinations.

Do I need a visa to visit the Solomon Islands?

Most nationalities, including those from the US, UK, EU, Australia, and New Zealand, can obtain a visitor permit upon arrival for stays up to 90 days. You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds. Always check the latest requirements with the Immigration Department before traveling.

Is malaria a serious concern in the Solomon Islands?

Yes, malaria is present throughout the Solomon Islands year-round, including in Honiara and all major tourist destinations. Consult a travel medicine specialist before your trip to obtain appropriate prophylaxis medication. Additionally, use mosquito repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if your accommodation doesn’t have adequate screening.

Can I drink the tap water in Solomon Islands?

No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in the Solomon Islands. Bottled water is widely available in Honiara and provincial centers, but becomes more scarce in remote areas. Consider bringing water purification tablets or a purification device for more remote destinations. Also, be cautious with ice, which is often made from untreated water.

How reliable is internet and phone coverage in Solomon Islands?

Mobile coverage is reasonably good in Honiara and provincial capitals but becomes patchy to non-existent in more remote areas. Our Telekom and Bmobile-Vodafone are the two carriers, with Our Telekom generally having better coverage outside urban areas. Internet is available but often slow and unreliable, with frequent outages even in Honiara. For remote areas, consider renting a satellite phone or communication device for emergencies.

Is it safe to snorkel and dive in the Solomon Islands?

The Solomon Islands offer world-class diving and snorkeling that is generally safe when done with reputable operators. The main risks include strong currents in some areas, limited hyperbaric facilities for diving emergencies, and the significant distance to advanced medical care. Always dive with established operators like Dive Gizo or Dive Munda who understand local conditions and have safety protocols in place.

How do I access emergency services in the Solomon Islands?

Emergency services in the Solomon Islands are limited compared to developed countries. For police emergencies, call 999. For medical emergencies in Honiara, the National Referral Hospital can be reached at +677 23600. Outside Honiara, your accommodation provider is often your best immediate resource in emergencies. The Australian Embassy (+677 21561) and other foreign missions can also provide assistance to their citizens.

What’s the best time of year to visit Solomon Islands for safety?

The dry season from May to November generally offers the safest and most comfortable travel conditions. This period has less rainfall, reduced risk of cyclones, and more reliable transportation. The wettest months (January-March) see increased risks of flooding, tropical cyclones, and transportation disruptions. If visiting during the wet season, build extra flexibility into your itinerary to accommodate weather-related delays.

References: Solomon Islands Safety Resources