Rabaul and Kokopo: volcanoes and wartime history

Why visit Rabaul and Kokopo

Few places mix nature and history as dramatically. Simpson Harbour was a major Japanese base in the Second World War, with around 100,000 troops stationed here, and the hills are still riddled with tunnels. The volcanoes remain active, and Tavurvur often puffs steam and ash over the harbour.

Volcanoes and hot springs

Boat or road trips take you to the foot of **Tavurvur**, where you can walk across grey ash fields and soak in hot springs on the shore. The **Rabaul Volcanological Observatory** on the caldera rim gives the best view over the harbour and volcanoes. Check current activity with your hotel, as access closes when Tavurvur is restless.

Wartime relics

**Admiral Yamamoto's bunker** in Rabaul has a painted ceiling map of the Pacific. The **Japanese barge tunnels** at Karavia Bay hold rusting landing barges deep in the hillside. In Kokopo, the **Kokopo War Museum** displays aircraft, guns and vehicles. Divers can explore Japanese shipwrecks and a Zero fighter in the harbour.

Kokopo and the coast

Kokopo is the modern hub, with waterfront resorts, banks and the busy **Kokopo market**, where Tolai traders sell betel nut, smoked fish and greens. Nearby, the **Bita Paka War Cemetery** is a peaceful Commonwealth cemetery. Snorkelling and diving trips run to the Duke of York Islands and Pigeon Island.

Culture and festivals

The Tolai people are known for their shell money, called tabu, still used in ceremonies, and for the masked **Dukduk** and **Tubuan** dancers, part of a secret society tradition. The **National Mask and Warwagira Festival**, usually in July in Kokopo, brings mask dancers from across PNG, including the fire dancers of the Baining people. Confirm dates before booking.

Safety

East New Britain is one of the more relaxed provinces. Petty theft and occasional robberies still happen, so take normal precautions, use hotel arranged drivers at night, and follow advice about volcanic ash if Tavurvur is erupting, as ash can affect flights.

Plan your stay

Find resorts, dive operators and tours in the places to visit list, and use the free trip planner to combine New Britain with Kimbe Bay or the Highlands.

A suggested three days

On day one, settle into Kokopo and visit the war museum and market. Day two is Rabaul: the observatory lookout, Yamamoto's bunker, the barge tunnels and the hot springs below Tavurvur. Day three can be a boat trip to the Duke of York Islands, with snorkelling and a village visit, or a morning dive on the wartime wrecks.

Practical tips

Book a reliable driver through your hotel for the Rabaul day. Carry a scarf or mask in case of ash, and wear sturdy shoes for the ash fields. If you are lucky enough to visit when shell money is being exchanged at a ceremony, ask before taking photos. Keep plans flexible, as flights can be delayed when the volcano is active. East New Britain is malarial, so take antimalarials and cover up at dusk. Kokopo has banks and ATMs, but carry some cash for village fees, boat rides and market snacks. Dress modestly in villages and towns, and swim in shorts and a shirt near communities.