By Samantha Semoso – EMTV Online
The Autonomous Region of Bougainville is located in the easternmost of Papua New Guinea, and is a one-and-a-half hour direct flight from Port Moresby.
The outer islands of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are isolated, tranquil and beautiful, with white sandy beaches and aqua-clear water. Visitors can go sunbaking, snorkeling, fishing, or camping on its many offshore islands.
You can visit Madehas in northern Bougainville; Taiof and Saposa to the east; and Matsungan, Petats and Pororan to the west of Buka. In Central Bougainville, enhance your experience by taking a canoe or boat to Pokpok, Arovo and Baikai Islands. In the south, the Shortland Archipelago is visible from Kangu Beach and an hour’s boat trip will see you arrive at the Solomon Islands. So while in Buin don’t miss the opportunity to visit our neighbours.
Some islands are inhabited but most are not, and resemble the desert islands in Robinson Crusoe.
If you are an underwater person, explore the wonderland on Bougainville’s coast which has some of the world’s greatest bio-diversity within its waters. Deep water close to shore, healthy mangrove lined coastal areas, and a range of different reef environments make it a dream destination for water activities.
With great visibility you’ll see beautiful sea fans; large barrel sponges and delicate sea whips which decorate the reefs around Bougainville. There are hard and soft coral gardens inhabited by thousands of colourful fish, turtles, manatee, and schools of barracuda. For the history buff, a number of excellent WWII wrecks are accessible, from planes to cargo ships, and even a Japanese destroyer. Snorkeling and Scuba diving trips can also be arranged.
The many small islands near the southern end of the passage are also good locations. Buka Island, Loloho, Tunaya, Koromira and many offshore islands are all ideal spots for snorkeling.
