Kolombangara
An almost perfectly circular volcanic island in the Western Province, climbed to its crater rim.
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Kolombangara is a near-perfect volcanic cone rising to around 1,770 metres out of the sea in the Western Province, circular enough that the road runs right round its base, with the crater rim at the top and forest running up the whole slope. The climb takes two days with a camp partway. A conservation trust protects the upper forest, which holds birds found only on this island.
What you actually see
- The crater rim - the summit ridge at around 1,770 metres.
- The circular form - an island regular enough that the road rings it.
- The forest zones - lowland through to moss forest on the climb.
- The endemic birds - species found only on this island in the upper forest.
When to go
May to October is the drier season and the practical window. Cloud sits on the summit most days. The wet season makes the climb impassable.
Honest expectations
The climb is steep, muddy and takes two days with a rough camp partway. Guides, porters and landowner fees are required. Cloud usually closes the view from the rim.
Nearby
Gizo is west, and Munda is southeast.
What to pack for Kolombangara
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.