Trobriand Islands Travel Guide

Your comprehensive guide to exploring the Trobriand Islands, including sights to see, activities to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Trobriand Islands

Located in the Milne Bay province of Papua New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are a group of small islands that boast beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise water, and rich cultural heritage. The Trobriand Islanders are known for their unique culture and traditions, including the belief in the power of yam and the practice of matrilineal inheritance. Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring the Trobriand Islands.

List of Places to Visit in Trobriand Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Trobriand Islands are steeped in history and culture, and there are several significant attractions that you need to visit.

  • Kula Ring - The Kula Ring is a trading system of items and shells between the islands that’s been happening for centuries. Visiting the Kula Ring is a unique opportunity to see the traditional life of Trobriand Islanders.
  • Tuma Shrine - Tuma Shrine is a forested area where Trobrianders practice their animistic rituals. Here, they come to pray to spirits and receive blessings, especially for fertility.
  • Malinowski’s Field Station - Explore the anthropology site of this Islanders while you understand further about their ancient practices.
  • Rainforest Hike in the Suyanunu Village to see traditional gardens, great views, and a lot more. Tourists can walk in the fascinating jungle and see a lot of natural phenomena.

Natural Attractions of Trobriand Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The wildlife and nature of the Trobriand Islands are second to none, with plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to enjoy.

  • Snorkeling and Diving - The Trobriand Islands boast some of the world’s best underwater scenery, with vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
  • Milamala Waterfalls - These waterfalls on the island are accessible through a hiking trail that you can take a dip in after getting fresh and cool water from the waterfall.
  • Scenic Spot from a hilltop - A scenic place to take photos or spend the day sightseeing or having picnics. The view is spectacular as you can see both land and sea from the top.
  • Canoeing in the Mangroves - Experience the tranquil beauty of the mangroves as you paddle your way through the island shoreline and reefs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Trobriand Islands

  • Hiking the Rainforest Trails - Take a break from the daily grind and hike the rainforest trails that will take you to the heart of the jungle where you can explore the island’s wildlife, plants, and trees.
  • Biking routes - Go countryside and cycle your way across towns and villages. It’s the most eco-friendly way of getting around in the Trobriand Islands while experiencing the Islanders’ way of life.

Best Things to Do in Trobriand Islands: Activities and Tours

Regardless of the reason for your holiday, the Trobriand Islands have plenty of activities and tours to offer, from snorkeling and diving to cultural tours and hiking tours.

  • Swim and Sunbathe on White Sand Beaches - Take advantage of the pristine and uncrowded beaches to swim, sunbathe, or relax.
  • Visit the Traditional Yam Gardens - Get insight into the importance of yam in the Islanders’ culture, including how they plant and harvest it.
  • Take an Island Hopping Tour - The Trobriand Islands consists of more than four islands, consequently, visitors can take a tour across all of the islands to explore all the attractions.
  • Experience Traditional Ceremonies - Participate in the Islands’ unique culture by attending traditional ceremonies or performing as a guest in the Trobriand Islanders’ way of life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Trobriand Islands

Day Activity
1 Visit the Kula Ring
2 Take a rainforest hike to Malinowski’s Field Station
3 Snorkeling and Diving on the Islands Reef
4 Explore Island and Learn Traditional Practices
5 Trekking trail to Milamala Waterfalls
6 Enjoy Sunbathing and Beach Games
7 Take a day trip to nearby Kiriwina Island

Food and Drink Scene of Trobriand Islands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Taro - Taro is a main ingredient in most dishes of the Trobriand Islands, in soups, stews, and kai-kai tapis (food meatiness).
  • Kaukau - Kaukau is the Trobriand Islanders’ staple food, made from sweet potatoes.
  • Bingon - Bingon is Trobriand Islander’s seafood dish made from crabs.

Local Beverages

  • Alcoholic Beverages - Locally brewed beer called Milky (mildly alcoholic) and Tarubara Tuba drink (like Wine).
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages include fruit juices, Soda, and tea.

Where to Stay in Trobriand Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are not many places to stay at in Trobriand Islands, but the few available provide the perfect accommodation experience that caters to all kinds of preferences and budgets.

  • Kiriwina Lodge - Located on Kiriwina Island, this lodge provides the ideal beach bungalow for tourists.
  • Kiriwina High School Guesthouse - The guesthouse provides mixed dorms and private rooms with shared and private bathrooms.
  • Island Inn - The Island Inn is located on the beautiful Muyuw Island and provides breathtaking sea views.

What to Buy in Trobriand Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Shell Money - This is the Trobriand Islanders’ version of currency, made from shells, used for years in traditional trading.
  • Wood Carvings - Trobriand Islanders are skilled wood-carvers and make items like bowls, sculptures, and carvings depicting their cultural beliefs.

Local Culture and Customs of Trobriand Islands

Trobriand Islanders have unique customs and culture, among which include:

  • Importance of Yam in Culture - Yam isn’t just another food to the Trobriand Islanders; it is a cultural identity with its value in political, social, and economic space.
  • Society runs by Women - Trobriand Islanders practices a matrilineal society where women manage and lead family groups.
  • Ritual Ceremonies - Trobriand Islanders practice animistic rituals and ceremonies that honor the spirits of the forests and their ancestors.

Best Time to Visit Trobriand Islands

Trobriand Islands can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit is between May and October when the weather is dry and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Trobriand Islands

Do:

  • Respect the customs and traditions of the Trobriand Islanders.
  • Bring mosquito repellent to help you avoid any mosquito bites.
  • Pack light, cotton clothes because the weather can be hot and humid.

Don’t:

  • Avoid pointing with fingers at people, as it is considered rude by the Trobriand Islanders.
  • Don’t litter. Leave the island as you found it, protecting the environment is part of the Islanders’ culture.
  • Don’t take pictures without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Trobriand Islands

The Trobriand Islands are safe for tourists; however, as with any foreign place, always be cautious and avoid walking in dark areas and carrying huge sums of cash.

Health in Trobriand Islands

There have been cases of malaria in the past, so tourists should take anti-malarial medication and follow any other advice given by their doctor before traveling. Also, ensure that food and water are boiled or purified before eating.

Getting to Trobriand Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Trobriand Islands

The main airport near the Trobriand Islands is Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby.

Bus Stations Near Trobriand Islands

There are no bus stations as transportation to the Trobriand Islands is mainly on boats or small privately owned planes.

Other Options

  • Private boats and canoes are available for rent upon arrival at Alotau, Milne Bay.
  • Tropic Air is a small airline that flies from PNG’s main airports to the Trobriand Islands.

How to Get Around in Trobriand Islands

The best way to get around Trobriand Islands is by boat, canoes or walking. Most tourist attractions can be accessed from the water.

Where to Go Next from Trobriand Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alotau - Located on the mainland, Alotau town is PNG’s capital in the Milne Bay province. It has several historical sites and cultural festivals.
  • Milne Bay - Milne Bay Province offers further satisfying dive sites, island hopping tours, beaches, and traditional village tours.

Conclusion

The Trobriand Islands offer a unique and fascinating holiday experience, immersed in beautiful scenery and rich cultural heritage. With plenty of activities, beautiful beaches, and diving, it is perfect for relaxation, adventure, and exploration.

Wood carving of traditional Trobriands yam house Wood carving of traditional Trobriands yam house