Kokopo & Rabaul

Kokopo and Rabaul sit in the shadow of active volcanoes on the Gazelle Peninsula of East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. This region offers a raw, dramatic landscape where colonial history, indigenous culture, and geothermal power collide. Rabaul, once the 'Pearl of the Pacific', was devastated by the 1994 volcanic eruption that buried much of the town in ash, while Kokopo has since become the provincial capital. Here, you can explore World War II relics, dive on pristine coral reefs, and witness the immense Tavurvur volcano smouldering across Simpson Harbour.

Highlights & What to See

• Tavurvur Volcano: This active volcano is the main draw—take a boat trip across the harbour to see its steaming crater and feel the raw power of the earth. For the adventurous, a guided hike to the crater rim offers surreal views of the lunar-like landscape.
• Rabaul Market: A vibrant hub of local life, selling fresh tropical fruits, betel nut, and bilum (traditional string bags). It's a great spot to interact with locals and sample exotic produce.
• Rabaul War Relics: The town is littered with WWII remnants—Japanese bunkers, tunnels, and the subterranean Rabaul War Museum. History buffs can spend hours exploring the extensive network of tunnels carved into the hillsides.
• Duke of York Islands: A short boat ride from Kokopo, these idyllic islands offer white-sand beaches, excellent snorkelling, and a chance to experience traditional island life. Stay overnight in a village guesthouse for an authentic cultural immersion.
• Kokopo Market & Museum: The Kokopo Market is less chaotic than Rabaul's, with a good selection of local crafts. The nearby Kokopo War Museum houses an impressive collection of WWII artefacts, including aircraft wrecks retrieved from the jungle.

Suggested Time to Spend

Three to four days is ideal to cover the highlights. Start with a day in Rabaul exploring the volcano and war relics, then spend a day island-hopping in the Duke of York group. A third day allows for a deeper dive into local culture at the markets and a visit to the hot springs or a village trek. If you have time, add a day for diving or simply relaxing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kimbe Bay: About a 3-hour drive west, this bay is renowned for its world-class diving and biodiversity. Combine it with a liveaboard or resort stay.
• New Ireland Province: A short flight or ferry to Kavieng offers stunning coastal scenery, WWII wrecks, and a more laid-back vibe.
• Kokopo to Rabaul Drive: The scenic 30-minute drive between the two towns passes through oil palm plantations and offers glimpses of the volcanic peaks—stop at vantage points for photos.

Please check official sources for current details.