East New Britain Historical, Natural And Culture Tour

The tour begins with a hotel pick-up from Kokopo or Rabaul followed by a drive to the Rabaul Volcano lookout where visitors will learn about the major volcanic eruptions that occurred in 1937 and 1994. A guided walk around the area will provide explanations about the volcanic activity and its impact on the town. Visitors will also explore the ash-covered town ruins and stop at scenic viewpoints overlooking Simpson Harbour for photography before returning to the hotel. Later, the tour continues with a visit to the Kokopo War Museum where guests will learn about World War II history through displays of relics, aircraft remains and weapons. Visitors will have time to take photos, ask questions, and make an optional stop in Kokopo town before returning to the hotel. The day concludes with a visit to Bita Paka War Cemetery near Kokopo where a guide will share the story of Australia’s first land battle during World War II. Guests will have time for quiet reflection and photography before returning to the hotel..

On the second day, guests will be picked up from the hotel and taken to the Japanese War Memorial located in Rabaul. During the visit, the guide will provide cultural explanations about reconciliation and forgiveness between nations after World War II. Visitors will enjoy a scenic viewpoint overlooking Simpson Harbour and take photographs before continuing the tour. The itinerary then includes a visit to the Japanese Submarine Base and tunnels used during World War II. Guests will explore the tunnels and relic sites while receiving guided historical interpretation about the Japanese military presence in the area. A safety briefing will be provided before a torch-assisted walk through the tunnels. After the exploration, visitors will return to the hotel.

The third day focuses on natural attractions starting with an early hotel pick-up followed by a boat transfer to the Duke of York Islands, including Pangpang Island and nearby villages. Visitors will enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters while experiencing the natural beauty of the islands. The tour also includes a village visit where guests can interact with local communities and learn about their way of life. A picnic lunch featuring local seafood will be provided before returning to Kokopo in the afternoon. Later, the tour continues with a visit to Ward Hunt Beach where visitors can relax, swim, take beach walks and enjoy photography while light refreshments are provided. The day also includes a scenic drive across the Gazelle Peninsula where guests will stop at viewpoints, coastal villages and plantations. A short guided nature walk and a local lunch stop will also be included before returning to Kokopo.

The final day of the tour focuses on cultural experiences in Kokopo town. Visitors will be picked up from the hotel and guided through the Kokopo Local Market where they will learn about local produce, handicrafts and the traditional betel nut culture. Guests will have time to purchase souvenirs and interact with local vendors while receiving cultural explanations from the guide. The tour will then continue with a visit to the East New Britain Historical and Cultural Centre where visitors will explore exhibitions featuring early photographs and historical displays related to World War II and the cultural heritage of the region. After exploring the exhibitions, guests will return to their hotel marking the end of the tour.