The Wilderness LodgeGatokae Island, Solomon Islands
Get back to nature on Gatokae Island in the Solomons' Western Province. The wonderful Wilderness Lodge, parked on the edge of Marovo Lagoon, has just two private oceanfront bungalows, housing up to four people each, and lodge accommodation for a paltry six more. Each of the bungalows has traditional palm leaf roofs, stunning timber finishings and outdoor stonework showers heated by a wood fire, while the lodge is popular with research groups and families.
Not only will you enjoy real Melanesian hospitality with your host Waelinah, but you’ll also have access to a number of wild, uninhabited islands and the jungle-clad peak of Mt Mariu. There's snorkelling off the island, or get one of the guides to take you on a tour of epic local spots where you'll see coral gardens, turtles and fish of all persuasions. For divers, there's the chance to dive at night on a thousand-foot drop-off and swim with pelagic and sharks. On land, go bird watching, hang out in a hammock by the water, take a tour of the local village or go on a hike through the interior of Gatokae Island.
Solomon Airlines flies from Brisbane and Sydney to Honiara with connections to Segue, the nearest airport to the Wilderness Lodge.
flysolomons.com
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- Free breakfast
- Kitchenette
- Air-conditioning
Lodge accommodation starts at US$95 per person twin share; oceanfront bungalows cost US$150 per person twin share. The price includes all meals and snacks.
The Wilderness Lodge
wildernesssolomons.com
The village rests from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. During this time, boat use, fishing and work cease.