Those who like to travel and discover new places should visit the Bismarck archipelago, which consists of several large islands and many small ones. It is located in the Western Pacific Ocean and is part of the state of Papua New Guinea.
There is such an abundance of fish in the waters near the islands that divers from all over the world dream of diving here. The coastal waters are clear and swimming here is a pleasure. It is hot and very high humidity here, especially on the coast, where at any time of the year it can be + 40 degrees in the shade.
Such different islands
The largest island of the Bismarck archipelago - New Britain - rises more than 2,300 meters above sea level. Like most of the islands in the archipelago, it is of volcanic origin. And this is not surprising, almost all the islands are within the Pacific ring of fire.
The second largest island - New Ireland - is located northeast of New Guinea. It is half the size of New Britain, but it is also very popular amongtourists.
The rest, smaller islands, mostly also volcanic, and mainland ones appear only near New Guinea. And the smallest ones are more like coral atolls than full-fledged landmasses.
Ring of Volcanoes
Almost all major islands of the Bismarck archipelago have volcanoes. Of course, many of them are dormant for a long time, but New Britain alone has more than six active volcanoes. They periodically frighten tourists with unexpected emissions of hot ash and steam, and even red-hot stones. Surprisingly, the locals are absolutely calm about volcanic activity and even made it a source of extreme experiences for guests.
Excursions to once-active volcanoes are very popular with tourists. For example, Mango Avenue, a popular area of the island, located next to the Rabaul volcanic complex, is lined with hotels, restaurants and shops.
However, volcano eruptions and earthquakes are common in the Bismarck Archipelago, so you need to be careful and be prepared for a possible evacuation.
Part of the "coral triangle"
The Bismarck Archipelago fits well into the famous "coral triangle", which is home to a huge number of different tropical fish, crustaceans and rare corals. And while diving in these waters, you can encounter a hammerhead shark or a formidable gray shark.
Scientists studying the inhabitants of this underwater paradise have calculated thatmore than 1,500 species of fish and corals live here, which is more than half of all species that live on the planet.
Surprisingly, the nature of the Bismarck Islands has not yet suffered much from the influence of civilization. The government of the country, and the management of diving centers are trying to preserve the coral diversity and cleanliness of coastal waters. Before diving, tourists are warned not to touch the corals, break off pieces from them and lean on them to take a photo. The boats that carry divers are not equipped with anchors to prevent their sharp edges from damaging the atoll.
Best dive sites
Off the coast of New Guinea are the famous underwater "hanging gardens" - a real natural wonder. A huge number of colorful corals and sea sponges, many underwater inhabitants and clear water for good shooting.
North of the coast of New Britain lies the Fathers Reef Range, interesting for its unique ocean floor topography. Actually, these are not reefs, but the caldera of an ancient underwater volcano, the lava flows of which formed a bizarre bottom. Vertical walls of reefs, bizarre corridors and arches, on which colorful corals grow densely. Rays and barracudas often come here, sometimes you can meet a huge sea turtle. Underwater photos of the islands of the Bismarck archipelago are fascinating, it seems they were taken on another planet.
And those who like to tickle their nerves will enjoy diving near the reef Kimbe Island Bommi, whose name translates as "Shark Water". near the reefflocks of tuna and mackerel literally crowd, so dangerous ocean predators often swim here for lunch. Impressions from such diving will never be erased from memory. By the way, you can still meet sharks near Bradford and Otto atolls.
It's no surprise that the Bismarck Archipelago has many dive sites that offer accommodation, transport, equipment rentals and training for divers.
Amazing inhabitants of the islands
Arriving on the Tabani Island of the Bismarck Archipelago, and on any other, you can not only bask on the white sand of the beach and follow the life of underwater inhabitants. No less interesting will be bird watching, which inhabit the islands in large numbers.
More than a hundred endemic bird species nest on the archipelago, and ornithologists from all over the planet come to study their life and habits. A few decades ago, an excursion program appeared that allows you to walk through the rainforest and the nearest islands. For example, the staff at the Walindi Plantation Resort has been successfully running "bird tours" through several forests and islands. Moreover, guests will travel by sea on a comfortable yacht, from which you can watch not only birds, but also marine life.
The archipelago is home to six rare species of petrels, including Geinroth's petrel, nine species of kingfishers and many parrots. Of course, the nature of the Bismarck Archipelago cannot be compared with the blooming paradise of New Guinea, but a trip here will definitely becomeunforgettable.
Beach vacation
On the east and south coasts of New Britain, on Tabor Island in the Bismarck Archipelago, and on other large islands, there are very pleasant sandy beaches. Often the tropical palm trees almost reach the surf, and the sand looks white in the sun.
The rainy season starts in December and lasts until mid-March. Rest at this time will not be comfortable: strong winds, almost constant showers and high waves. You should not come to the sea in April and November either, the weather during these months is very unstable and your vacation can be ruined. But you can travel around the islands, see the sights and learn about the life and customs of the locals, many of whom live according to ancient traditions.
Where to stay
Despite the fact that rest in this paradise attracts many travelers, the tourist infrastructure in the Bismarck archipelago is almost not developed. There are no usual five-star hotels, taxi services and nightclubs.
Traveling around the islands, you can settle in the territory of diving centers or in small villages for tourists. Yes, and many locals can host a traveler for a nominal fee, but the sanitary conditions can be intimidating.
Some travelers advise staying in the nearest major city, such as Kimbi or Rabaul, where there are hotels and hostels, and from there travel around the archipelago. It is better to enlist the services of a local guide who will knowroads and understand local customs.
Reviews and travel tips
In order not to spoil the impression of the rest, guests of the Bismarck Archipelago need to follow simple rules. According to the reviews of tourists who have been there, you need to prepare for some unusual things:
- Before traveling, get vaccinated against certain diseases: hepatitis B, tetanus, diphtheria, cholera and typhoid.
- Be very careful when trying local dishes that use unfamiliar root vegetables and fruits. And the cleanliness in many establishments leaves much to be desired.
- Don't drink any water other than bottled water. The risk of contracting unpleasant diseases is very high.
- There are many sharks swimming around the islands, and many bright sea creatures are very poisonous.
- It is forbidden to export any items that were found on the seabed from the country. This can lead to serious legal problems when leaving.
However, despite all the difficulties and lack of comfort, the Bismarck Archipelago like a magnet attracts lovers of untouched nature and extreme recreation.
