04 Apr 2024

Our Solomon Islands adventure comes to an end – A Day on Kolombangara Island

During the night, we arrived off the south coast of Kolombangara Island. The birders boarded the Zodiacs well before dawn for a ride through black waters to the island. At the village of Ringgi, we boarded a convoy of large pick-up trucks for a ride up the mountain. We arrived at Imbu Rano Mountain Lodge in time to see the impressive summit of the long-extinct volcano bathed in the first light of dawn. From the large viewing deck, we observed a Pale Mountain Pigeon and a rare Crested Cuckoo-dove in the jungle canopy. As the sun climbed higher in the clear sky, we walked through shady old-growth forest, where we added Mackinlay’s Cuckoo-dove, Yellow-vented Myzomela, and Solomons White-eye to the trip list.

Those not birding joined us at the lodge later in the morning and took time to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

After enjoying lunch back on board Heritage Adventurer, the birders set off on Zodiacs for a cruise in a tranquil lagoon fringed with mangroves. Here we had good views of the long sought-after Northern Melanesian Cuckoo-shrike, as well as abundant Cardinal Lory and various other Solomon specialities. Afterwards, we landed at the small traditional village of Kena, where we set out to find the endangered Roviana Rail. Though the rail remained elusive, we saw many other fascinating birds in the lush palm forest.

Those not birding toured the village of Hunda, and enjoy a slice of authentic village life.

In the afternoon, everyone reunited at the Leleana Resort Kolombangara. Upon arrival, we were decorated with flowers and despite the heavy tropical rain, we wandered through the orchid gardens. The experience turned surreal as clouds of butterflies surrounded us. Then it was time to look underwater, with a refreshing snorkel right off the jetty. Nemo, Lionfish, Triggerfish, and even a Cuttlefish were spotted. Then the Heritage Adventurer bar arrived, and we toasted to our incredible five days on the Solomon Islands.

Images © C. Finch & S. Fish, Heritage Expeditions