Tavurvur erupting, photographed on 13 February 2009

East New Britain, Papua New Guinea

Rabaul and Kokopo

VolcanoCoastHeritage

4.3 / 5· Hidengo

The notebook of Rabaul and Kokopo

Discover the coast beyond its beaches.

Around Blanche Bay, Rabaul and Kokopo combine volcanic scenery with places of remembrance. Explore wartime heritage and Tavurvur with local support, after checking current safety conditions.

At your own pace

Breathe Walk along Admire

Identity summary

Ideal duration

3 to 5 days

Best time

Summer · Autumn

Car

Recommended car

Type of stay

Volcano · Coast · Heritage

Accessibility

Limited accessibility

Rhythm

Modular rhythm

General presentation

Rabaul and Kokopo

Around Blanche Bay, Rabaul and Kokopo combine volcanic scenery with places of remembrance. Explore wartime heritage and Tavurvur with local support, after checking current safety conditions.

Check access, bookings and permissions with the site before visiting.

See all

Sea outings depend on weather and operators; follow local swimming guidance.

Arrange transport through a reliable local professional and check official travel advice before booking.

Tavurvur is active: check volcanic restrictions and follow local authorities’ instructions.

Strengths and constraints

Strengths

Tavurvur
Rabaul Volcano Observatory viewpoint
Bita Paka War Cemetery

Before you choose

Check access, bookings and permissions with the site before visiting.
Sea outings depend on weather and operators; follow local swimming guidance.
Arrange transport through a reliable local professional and check official travel advice before booking.
Tavurvur is active: check volcanic restrictions and follow local authorities’ instructions.

Places worth visiting

A selection to start dreaming and organizing the stay — not an exhaustive list of everything there is to see.

Viewpoint

Tavurvur

4.8 / 5· Hidengo

Tavurvur’s cone rises above the ash landscapes of Rabaul caldera. Observe this active volcano from authorised areas; never assume that climbing it or approaching the crater is permitted.

Viewpoint

Rabaul Volcano Observatory viewpoint

4.6 / 5· Hidengo

From the observatory heights, Simpson Harbour and the volcanic cones reveal Rabaul’s caldera. Confirm access to the viewpoint with your guide; visiting does not imply entry to the scientific facilities.

Heritage

Bita Paka War Cemetery

4.5 / 5· Hidengo

Bita Paka’s rows of graves bring a human dimension to the region’s wartime history. This is a place of remembrance: remain discreet and respect any ceremonies taking place.