Cave
Visit
Bellona Island is surrounded by caves,
some are still unexplored. Others are inhabit by Bats. Some of
these amazing caves were perhaps home to the first settlers of
Bellona Island long before the arrival of the Polynesians
(ancestors of modern Bellonese people). There are signs of
places where they used to live hundreds of years
ago.
Hiking
For Hiking lovers, Bellona Island is a
nice place to hike, but it is also dangerous considering the
rough terrains surrounding the island. However, Islanders know
where to go for a hike and photographing- so if you are
planning for a hiking trip, it is recommended that you find a
guide or a local man who knows the place to go with
you.
Bicycling
Bellona Island is 10 KM long with a
narrow strip running continously from West to East. There are
more bicyles on Bellona Island trucks, thus, bicycling is very
popular. If you want to see the rest of the villages, you
either hire a bicycle or ask to borrow a bicycle from local
people. Matangi maybe the roughest area for bicycling but its
your own call.
Bird
Watching
There are different types of birds on
the island. Photographers who are interested in taking photos
of unique birds such as the Island's Ibis, or the popular
flying-fox, should consult local guides for information. It is
recommended that you take a local partner with you. In fact
you can do this along with hiking if you think you can handle
it.
Coconut-Crab
hunting
Coconut-Crab hunting is exciting but
also dangerous. Only Islanders can do this, but if you are up
for it, follow your local guides' instruction. The crabs are
night-stalkers. They come out at night and hunt for food.
Islanders used ripe coconut fruits to lure them out of their
hiding places. Islanders use flash-light (Torch) and lamps to
find them, but watch how these local islanders catch them. Its
crazy if you'd never seen it before!
Swimming,
snorkeling, and Deep Sea Diving
Bellona Island sea is perhaps the
cleanest in the world as the island doesn't have running river
our creeks The water is crystal clear and is free of any forms
of pollution. The corals are healthy and fishes of all
different variety can be seen around the reefs. It is a
beautiful place for under-water
photographing
Clear Waters of
Bellona
Clean Waters of
Bellona Island.
The sea surrounding Bellona
Island is extremely clean because the
Island
lacks river, swamps or creeks and is mainly surrounded by lime
rocks. The only nearby Island is Rennell (located South East),
so the open sea is a rough sea all year round, keeping Bellona
Island's coastal areas clean.
Social status
Bellona Island is a peaceful place and a
crime free community. The people are friendly, esp if you are
a foreigner visiting Bellona Island for
the first time. The Island's only
clinic is located on the West side and it may take a while to
get there.You are encouraged
to take a First Aid kit with you if you decided to go for a
hike up the rocky hills of Bellona.
Always have a friend or a guide
with you when you go out hiking or visiting caves or taking
photos of birds etc. You must also carry with you water in
case your hiking trip or other activities last longer than you
expected. If you don't have water, have your guide pick
green coconuts for you. Always keep yourself hydrated.
Carry a smaller backpack
with you with a change of clothes, a notepad and a small
flash-light or torch if you decide to do something faraway
from where you stay.
