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Bougainville
Overview
Bougainville is the largest island of the Solomon Islands archipelago, and an autonomous island region within Papua New Guinea.
Facts
Rank
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Coordinates
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Source
WBP almanac
External sources
Media
From Wikipedia279 words
WBP editorial2
Travel craft
The most reliable way to reach Bougainville is via the modest terminal at Buka Airport, followed by a short ferry crossing to Arawa. Rental cars are scarce; most visitors hire a locally‑owned four‑wheel‑drive with a driver familiar with the region’s unpaved roads and occasional river crossings. Keep a supply of fresh water and a basic first‑aid kit, as medical facilities beyond the main towns are limited. A portable satellite phone can be a lifesaver during excursions into the hinterland, where mobile coverage fades quickly.
What guidebooks miss
Beyond the well‑trodden sites of the World War II wrecks, Bougainville offers informal community markets where residents trade hand‑woven mats and locally fermented cassava. Visiting these stalls early in the morning provides a glimpse of daily life and the chance to sample "tavioka"—a sour, fermented drink that outsiders rarely encounter. While the island’s volcanic landscapes dominate headlines, the coastal mangroves around Siara support an unexpected birdwatching niche, especially during the migratory season when rare shorebirds pause to feed.