Fans of traveling and discovering new places should visit the Bismarck archipelago, consisting of several large islands and many small ones. It is located in the western part of the 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 transparent, and swimming here is a pleasure. It is hot and very humid, especially on the coast, where at any time of the year it can be + 40 degrees in the shade.
So different islands
The largest island of the Bismarck archipelago - New Britain - rises more than 2,300 meters above sea level. Like most 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 among tourists.
The rest, smaller islands, mostly also volcanic, and the mainland appear only near New Guinea. And the smallest are more likely coral atolls than full land areas.
Volcano ring
Almost all the major islands of the Bismarck archipelago have volcanoes. Of course, many of them have been sleeping for a long time, but only in New Britain there are more than six active volcanoes. They periodically scare tourists with unexpected emissions of hot ash and steam, and even hot stones. Surprisingly, the locals are absolutely calm about volcanic activity and even made it a source of extreme impressions for guests.
Excursions to the 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 full of hotels, restaurants and shops.
However, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common on the Bismarck archipelago, so care must be taken and be prepared for a possible evacuation.
Part of the "coral triangle"
The Bismarck archipelago successfully fit into the famous "coral triangle", where a huge number of different tropical fish, crustaceans and rare corals live. And yet, 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 that more than 1,500 species of fish and corals live here, and this is more than half of all species that live on the planet.
Surprisingly, the nature of the Bismarck Islands has not yet been much affected by the influence of civilization. The government of the country, and the leadership of diving centers, are trying to preserve the coral diversity and purity of coastal waters. Before diving, tourists are warned that you can’t touch the corals, break off pieces from them and rely on them to take a photo. Boats that transport divers are not equipped with anchors so that their sharp edges do not damage the atoll.
The best diving spots
Off the coast of New Guinea are the famous underwater "hanging gardens" - a real natural miracle. A huge number of multi-colored corals and sea sponges, many underwater inhabitants and clear water for good shooting.
To the north of the coast of New Britain is a ridge of Phasers reefs, interesting for its unique topography of the ocean floor. Actually, these are not reefs, but the caldera of an ancient underwater volcano, the lava flows of which formed a bizarre bottom. The vertical walls of the reefs, bizarre corridors and arches on which colorful corals densely grow. Slopes and barracudas often come here, sometimes you can meet a huge sea turtle. Underwater photos of the islands of the Bismarck archipelago fascinate, it seems they were made on another planet.
And those who like to tickle their nerves will like to dive near the Kimbe Island Bommy reef, whose name translates as "Sharks of Water." Flocks of tuna and mackerel literally crowded around the reef, so dangerous ocean predators often swim here for lunch. The impressions of such diving will never be erased from memory. By the way, you can meet sharks even near the atolls of Bradford and Otto.
Not surprisingly, there are many dive sites on the Bismarck archipelago that offer divers accommodation, transportation, equipment rental and training.
Amazing Inhabitants of the Islands
Arriving on the island of Tabani of the Bismarck archipelago, and on any other, you can not only bask in the snow-white sand of the beach and follow the life of underwater inhabitants. No less interesting will be the observation of the birds that inhabit the islands in large numbers.
More than a hundred endemic bird species nest on the archipelago, ornithologists from all over the world come to study their life and habits. Several decades ago, an excursion program appeared that allows you to stroll through the tropical rainforest and the nearest islands. For example, Walindi Plantation Resort staff successfully conduct ornithological tours in several forests and islands. Moreover, guests will travel by sea on a comfortable yacht, from the board of which you can observe not only birds, but also marine inhabitants.
The archipelago is home to six rare species of petrels, including the Geynroth petrel, nine species of kingfishers and many parrots. Of course, the nature of the Bismarck archipelago cannot be compared with the flourishing paradise of New Guinea, but the trip here will definitely become unforgettable.
Beach vacation
On the eastern and southern shores of New Britain, on the island of Tabor of the Bismarck archipelago, and on other large islands, very nice sandy beaches. Often, thickets of tropical palm trees almost reach the surf, and the sand looks snow-white in the sun.
The rainy season begins 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 also in April and November, the weather in 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 local residents, many of whom live according to ancient traditions.
Where to settle
Despite the fact that holidays in this paradise attract many travelers, the tourist infrastructure on the Bismarck archipelago is almost undeveloped. There are no familiar five-star hotels, taxi service and night clubs.
Traveling around the islands, you can settle in the diving centers or in small villages for tourists. Yes, and many locals can shelter a traveler for a nominal fee, but sanitary conditions can scare.
Some travelers advise staying in the nearest major city, for example, in Kimby or Rabaul, where there are hotels and hostels, and from there to travel around the archipelago. It is better to enlist the services of a local guide who will know the roads and understand local customs.
Traveler reviews and tips
In order not to spoil the impression of relaxation, 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 the trip, get vaccinated against some diseases: hepatitis B, tetanus, diphtheria, cholera and typhoid.
- Very carefully try the local cuisine, which uses unusual root vegetables and fruits. And the cleanliness in many institutions leaves much to be desired.
- Do not drink any water except bottled. The risk of contracting unpleasant diseases is very high.
- Around the islands, many sharks swim, and many bright marine creatures are very poisonous.
- It is forbidden to export from the country any items that were found on the seabed. This can lead to serious legal problems upon departure.
However, despite all the difficulties and lack of comfort, the Bismarck archipelago as a magnet attracts lovers of untouched nature and extreme relaxation.