Things To Do
in Gizo
Gizo is a picturesque town on Ghizo Island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. It is known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The town itself is small and laid-back, with colorful markets, waterfront cafes, and friendly locals.
Gizo also serves as a gateway to the nearby islands and is a convenient base for exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
- "Ola" - Hello
- "Tenk yu" - Thank you
- "Sori" - Sorry
- "Bai mi go" - I will go
- "Kasa" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs just off the coast. Enjoy breakfast at a local café with fresh tropical fruits and pastries.
Explore the lush landscapes by hiking to the nearby waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing swim. Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant while enjoying ocean views.
Watch the sunset from the beach while sipping on a tropical cocktail. Visit a local night market to experience the island’s cuisine and culture.
Embark on a boat tour to spot dolphins and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared with local ingredients.
Go for a dive or snorkel at a famous dive site where you can see shipwrecks and colorful fish. Have lunch on board with sandwiches and refreshing drinks.
Return to the shore for a relaxing evening stroll along the beach. Dine at a local restaurant specializing in seafood dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich marine biodiversity, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving.
- Beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities available, including hiking and exploring waterfalls.
- Cultural experiences with local Solomon Islander traditions and customs.
- Less touristy compared to other destinations, offering a more authentic experience.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists, which can affect comfort.
- Accessibility can be challenging, with limited transportation options.
- Health care facilities may be basic and not equipped for serious medical issues.
- Potentially high costs for goods and services due to isolation.
- Natural disasters, such as cyclones, can pose risks to safety and travel plans.
Best Activities in Gizo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life surrounding Gizo. Various guided snorkeling tours are available for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Gizo is renowned for its excellent scuba diving spots. Dive into clear waters to discover underwater caves, shipwrecks, and abundant marine biodiversity.
Take a boat tour to visit nearby islands such as Kiwala, Kolombangara, and others. Enjoy pristine beaches, local culture, and beautiful landscapes.
Experience deep-sea fishing or fly fishing in the rich waters around Gizo. Guided fishing tours are available to help you catch local fish species.
Rent a kayak to paddle through calm waters and explore the coastline and hidden lagoons around Gizo at your own pace.
Trek through the lush rainforest trails on the mainland or nearby islands, where you can encounter unique wildlife and stunning views.
Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions through cultural tours. Visit villages and participate in local crafts or cooking classes.
Places to Visit in Gizo
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular hiking spot that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Gizo Island and surrounding waters, ideal for photographers looking for stunning landscapes.
A scenic walking trail around Gizo Island that provides various vantage points for capturing picturesque ocean views and vibrant local life.
A short boat trip from Gizo, Kokota Island features pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for capturing vibrant seascapes and sunset photos.
A natural pool with stunning blue water surrounded by lush greenery, offering excellent opportunities for underwater photography and nature shots.
An idyllic, less-crowded island with beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, perfect for capturing the essence of tropical paradise.
A bustling local market that showcases vibrant local culture and products, providing great opportunities for street photography and capturing the daily life of the locals.
Food in Gizo
Gizo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring locally caught fish and taro cooked in rich coconut cream. The creamy texture and delicate flavors make it a must-try.
Must-Try!
Rourou is a traditional spinach dish cooked in coconut milk and often served alongside seafood or meat. It provides a taste of authentic Solomon Islands flavors.
Fresh lobster tail grilled to perfection and served with a vibrant tropical fruit salsa, showcasing the finest in local seafood and fruits.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Gizo Central Market is a bustling hub of local food and culture. Here, you can find an array of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and vegetables. Intrepid foodies can sample local snacks such as coconut crab and grilled fish from the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gizo, as in much of the Solomon Islands, elders are highly respected. It is important to greet them first in conversations and to listen attentively to their insights and advice.
Modest dress is valued in Gizo, especially in rural areas. It is advisable to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting villages or cultural sites.
Greetings are important in Gizo culture. Friendly gestures such as handshakes or smiles are common, but be mindful of personal space and avoid touching someone of the opposite sex unless you know them well.
Safety
Tipping in Gizo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gizo, Solomon Islands, tipping is not a common practice and is often considered unnecessary. The local culture values humility and generosity without the expectation of additional rewards. However, in the hospitality sector, especially in tourism-related businesses, it is becoming more accepted to offer a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Payment practices in Gizo often involve cash transactions, as many local businesses may not have electronic payment options. The Solomon Islands relies heavily on cash, and the use of local currency (Solomon Islands dollar) is prevalent. While some larger hotels or tourist facilities may accept credit cards, it is advisable for visitors to carry cash for smaller purchases and transportation.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Gizo, as the weather is cooler and drier. Expect clear skies, less humidity, and fantastic conditions for diving, snorkeling, and exploring the natural beauty of the islands.
During this season, Gizo can experience heavy rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscapes are lush and vibrant, travel might be hindered due to occasional storms. It's also a good time to observe marine life as many species are more active during this period.
These months represent transitional periods between wet and dry seasons. You can expect occasional rain but also many clear days. It’s an ideal time for budget travelers, as prices may be lower and tourist crowds might be less intense.
Consider visiting during local festivals, like the Gizo Island Festival held in July. Expect vibrant cultural experiences that highlight the traditions of the Solomon Islands, with music, dancing, and local cuisine.
Gizo at Night
Hiking in Gizo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail near Gizo that offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands and lush vegetation. Ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A popular hiking destination that leads to a stunning lookout point overlooking Gizo and the surrounding waters. The hike features a mix of terrain and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Located on Kolombangara Island, this challenging hike rewards climbers with panoramic views from the summit and diverse wildlife along the way.
Various trails on Simbo Island offer hikers the chance to explore lush rainforests and spot unique wildlife, as well as enjoy serene beaches.
These trails provide access to enchanting natural landscapes and the distinctive flora and fauna of Savo Island, perfect for a day of hiking and exploration.
Aiports
How to reach Gizo by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city, Honiara, located on Guadalcanal Island, approximately 370 kilometers from Gizo.
An airport serving Rennell Island, situated about 280 kilometers from Gizo, providing limited domestic flights.
An airport located on New Georgia Island, approximately 80 kilometers from Gizo, offering domestic flights and connections.
Located on Tamana Island, about 150 kilometers from Gizo, this airport serves domestic flights mainly to Honiara.
Located in Noro, approximately 90 kilometers from Gizo, this airport operates domestic flights and is close to Munda.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Gizo, comprising the indigenous population of the Solomon Islands.
A smaller ethnic group that may have some presence in Gizo, typically associated with the broader Polynesian culture.
Representing another smaller ethnic group with some presence in the Solomon Islands, including in Gizo.
A small community involved in trade and business activities within Gizo.
Includes expatriates and individuals from various countries living in or visiting Gizo.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a popular sport in Gizo, often played in schools and local clubs. It promotes teamwork and physical fitness among the youth.
Basketball has gained a following in Gizo, with local courts available for community games and tournaments.
Cricket is well-loved in the Solomon Islands, with Gizo hosting various local matches and competitions throughout the year.
Soccer is a widely played sport in Gizo, with many organizations and teams participating in both casual games and formal leagues.
Volleyball is common on the beaches of Gizo, where locals enjoy both casual play and organized competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gizo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Solomon Islands cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Gizo offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for options like tropical fruit salads, vegetable stir-fries, and coconut-based curries.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find options such as grilled fish with steamed vegetables, fruit platters, and rice-based dishes readily available in Gizo's dining establishments.