Matupit Island

Matupit Island is a small volcanic island off the coast of Rabaul in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. It sits on the edge of the spectacular Rabaul Caldera, offering dramatic views of active volcanoes, steaming vents, and black sand beaches. This is a place where raw geothermal power meets Melanesian village life — a truly off-the-beaten-path destination for adventurous travellers.

Highlights & What to See

• Tavurvur Volcano: One of the most active volcanoes in Papua New Guinea, its smoking cone dominates the skyline. You can take a boat trip to approach the volcano and see the steam vents and ash-covered slopes up close.
• Black Sand Beaches: The island's volcanic shores are a striking contrast to the turquoise waters. Swim and relax on the dark sand, or explore the tidal pools at low tide.
• Hot Springs & Steam Vents: Geothermal activity is everywhere — you'll find hot springs bubbling along the shoreline and steam rising from the ground. Some locals use the natural heat for cooking.
• Traditional Village Life: Matupit is home to the Tolai people, who are known for their vibrant culture, including the famous tubuan masked dances. Visit the village to see traditional thatched houses and perhaps witness a ceremony.
• Rabaul Town & Harbour: Just a short boat ride away, the former provincial capital was devastated by the 1994 volcanic eruption but is slowly rebuilding. The harbour is dotted with sunken ships from WWII.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day on a guided tour from Rabaul, which includes a boat trip around the caldera, a walk on Matupit Island, and time at Tavurvur. If you want to immerse yourself in village life, consider staying overnight in a local guesthouse (basic but authentic). For a broader Rabaul experience, allow two to three days to also explore the town, the Kokopo market, and the Duke of York Islands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Rabaul Town: Explore the remnants of the old town, the Rabaul Museum, and the scenic Rabaul Lookout.
• Kokopo: The new provincial capital, with the excellent Kokopo War Museum and a lively market.
• Duke of York Islands: A stunning group of islands with white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and WWII wrecks — perfect for snorkelling and diving.
• Baining Mountains: Inland from Kokopo, these mountains are home to the Baining people, famous for their fire dances and unique mask traditions.
• New Ireland Province: Accessible by boat or small plane, this long island offers pristine diving, WWII history, and traditional villages.

Please check official sources for current details.