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Lots of scams

Melanesia

Tourist scams in Solomon Islands

Tourist scam frequency is unclear, but crime rates in Solomon Islands are high. The main documented threat is mugging, including attacks on tourists at the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin. Travel after dark is dangerous, especially in Honiara.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalMugging and theft of valuablesMuggers target tourists and take their belongings. Attacks at the Japanese War Memorial can happen during daylight. The frequency of these attacks is unclear.Honiara 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin, HoniaraMuggers have targeted tourists here even in broad daylight.
  • HoniaraTravel after dark is particularly dangerous.

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep your phone, cash and jewellery out of sight when you do not need them.
  • Carry only the cash and valuables needed for the day.
  • Keep a separate copy of your passport and important booking details.
  • Avoid travelling after dark, especially in Honiara.

Money

  • Use Solomon Islands dollars, marked SI$ or SBD.
  • Count your change before leaving a counter.
  • Some hotels and resorts accept Australian dollars. Confirm the currency and total before paying.
  • Keep some emergency money separate from your main wallet.

Cards and ATMs

  • ATMs are available in Honiara. Plan your cash needs before travelling elsewhere.
  • Choose an ATM in a secure, busy location and use it during daylight.
  • Cover your PIN and put cash away before leaving.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your card.

Tours and guides

  • Ask permission before entering villages, landing on locally owned islands or visiting trails, beaches, reefs and cultural sites.
  • Ask your accommodation or guide to identify the appropriate chief, elder or landowner.
  • Check whether an access or kastom fee is expected, and agree on the amount before entering.
  • Do not assume an empty beach or forest is public land.
  • Ask before photographing people, homes, ceremonies or cultural places.

Nights out

  • Plan your return before going out. Avoid journeys after dark.
  • Avoid public drunkenness, loud arguments and swearing.
  • Stay with companions and keep track of your belongings.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Solomon Islands?

Scam frequency is unclear. Crime rates are high, and mugging is a documented threat to tourists. There is not enough information to identify common taxi, booking or card scams.

Is it safe to travel after dark?

Travel after dark is dangerous, especially in Honiara. Plan journeys and your return during daylight.

Is the Japanese War Memorial safe during the day?

Daylight does not remove the risk. Muggers have targeted tourists at the Japanese War Memorial on Mt Austin in broad daylight. Ask your accommodation about current conditions before visiting.

Where can I find an ATM?

ATMs are available in Honiara. Plan your cash needs before leaving the capital, and use a secure ATM during daylight.

Can I pay with Australian dollars?

Some hotels and resorts accept Australian dollars. Confirm acceptance, the currency quoted and the total before paying. The local currency is the Solomon Islands dollar.

Is an access or kastom fee a scam?

A fee alone is not proof of a scam. Access or kastom fees may be expected at some places. Ask your accommodation or guide who can grant permission and what fee applies before entering.

Can I visit an empty beach or forest without permission?

Do not assume it is public land. Ask permission before visiting beaches, reefs, trails, locally owned islands or cultural sites.

How should I buy local handicrafts?

Buy through recognized artisans or community sellers. Do not take carvings, shell valuables, war relics or other objects from cultural sites.

What should I do if I am mugged?

Do not fight over possessions. Reach safety, seek medical help if needed and report the attack to police. Block stolen cards and contact your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken.

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