Gazelle Peninsula

Jutting out like a green thumb into the Bismarck Sea, the Gazelle Peninsula is the volcanic heart of East New Britain. This is Papua New Guinea at its most dramatic: steaming volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and World War II relics scattered through dense rainforest. The region’s culture is equally vivid, with the Baining people famous for their fire dances and intricate bark paintings. Whether you’re here to hike an active volcano, dive a submerged war wreck, or simply soak in the raw tropical energy, the Gazelle Peninsula delivers an unpolished, unforgettable adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Mount Tavurvur – This iconic active volcano erupted spectacularly in 1994, burying the former provincial capital Rabaul in ash. A boat trip across Simpson Harbour brings you to its foot, where you can hike the lunar-like slopes and peer into the still-steaming crater.
• Rabaul Town & Simpson Harbour – Wander the haunting remnants of Rabaul, a once-beautiful town now half-buried under volcanic ash. The harbour, a flooded volcanic caldera, is a superb natural port and the launch point for diving and volcano tours.
• Duke of York Islands – A short boat ride from Kokopo, this idyllic chain offers pristine white-sand beaches, excellent snorkelling, and a glimpse of traditional island life. Stay overnight in a village guesthouse for the full experience.
• Baining Mountains & Fire Dance – Head into the Baining range to witness the legendary fire dance, a spirit-possession ritual performed by men walking across glowing embers. The region’s bark paintings, made from tree bark and natural pigments, are a unique souvenir.
• Japanese War Relics – The peninsula is littered with WWII remnants: tunnels, bunkers, and a haunting network of underground hospitals and command posts around Rabaul. The Kokopo War Museum houses an excellent collection of memorabilia.

Suggested Time to Spend

A minimum of three to four days is needed to do the Gazelle Peninsula justice. Spend your first day exploring Rabaul’s volcano and war relics, then dedicate a second day to the Duke of York Islands for beach and snorkel time. If you can spare a third or fourth day, venture into the Baining Mountains for the fire dance and a hike through the highlands. Those with a week can add diving trips to the spectacular wrecks in Simpson Harbour and beyond.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kokopo – The modern capital of East New Britain, just 20 minutes from Rabaul. It has good accommodation, markets, and the excellent Kokopo War Museum.
• New Ireland Province – A short flight or boat ride north, New Ireland offers world-class diving at Kavieng and the stunning Nusa Island Retreat. Combine with the Gazelle Peninsula for a two-week East New Britain–New Ireland itinerary.
• Kimbe Bay – On the north coast of West New Britain, Kimbe Bay is a marine biodiversity hotspot with some of the best reef diving in PNG. It’s a scenic 2–3 hour drive from Kokopo (or a short flight).
• Rabaul Volcano Observatory – Perched on the rim of the caldera, this working observatory offers jaw-dropping views of Tavurvur and the harbour. A must-stop for geology buffs.

Please check official sources for current details.