Stand at the smouldering base of one of the Pacific's most active volcanoes — Mount Tavurvur, which famously obliterated Rabaul in 1994. Walk across hardened lava fields with a private expert guide for a truly primal, bucket-list encounter with Earth's raw power.
What to expect
Your private guide collects you at the port and drives to Simpson Harbour, where a short boat crossing brings you to the Tavurvur peninsula. You trek across a surreal moonscape of cooled lava and sulphur-crusted rock, steam venting from fissures underfoot. At the base, your guide explains the 1994 cataclysm that buried an entire city in ash. On clear days the views across the harbour and to the Beehives islands are extraordinary.
Good to know
Allow at least 4–5 hours. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a buff or light scarf for sulphur fumes. Pre-book directly via ToursByLocals well before sailing; slots fill fast on port days. Confirm all-aboard time and leave a comfortable 90-minute buffer.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Rabaul — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.