Least Visited Countries Autumn Combo Tour

LEAST VISITED COUNTRIES GROUP 1

Friday 4th September – Koror, Palau

• Palau is an island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, consisting of over 340 islands. The region is marked by periods of Spanish, German, and Japanese colonial rule before becoming a United Nations Trust Territory administered by the United States after World War II. In 1994, Palau gained full independence, establishing a Compact of Free Association with the United States that provides economic assistance and defense.
• Arrive in Koror at your convenience – the largest and commercial centre of Palau and transfer to our hotel.

Saturday 5th September – Koror – Babeldaob – Koror

Morning

• A relatively late rise after late flights coming the previous night, and meet our local guide at 10:30 AM in the lobby of our hotel for a brief orientation followed by a 11:00 AM departure for the day’s activities.

Afternoon

• Head out with our local guide and over the Japan-Palau Friendship bridge to Babeldaob island, Palau’s largest island and the seat of its government. After visiting parliament, located in Ngerulmud, the administrative capital of the country, we’ll stop by the excellently preserved Melekeok Bai (traditional men’s meeting house), which features ornate traditional designs and paintings. Not far from it, we will see a recreation of a traditional “Kabekel”, a war canoe once used in warriors’ expeditions to neighbouring villages until colonial powers banned warfare in Palau in the 18th century.
• Quick stop at a local supermarket to grab a convenient lunch for the road.
• Arrive at Babeldaob’s northernmost tip for the day’s highlight: the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths, considered to be the most enigmatic and oldest archaeological site in Palau.
• After exploring Babeldaob, head back to Koror to sample some local street food at the 680 Night Market. (Please note that the 680 Night Market operates on irregular hours. If it is unavailable, we will stop at Palau’s biggest shopping center followed by dinner out on the town in Koror)
• Overnight in Koror.

Sunday 6th September – Koror – Peleliu – Koror

Morning

• 8:00 AM departure for a boat trip through the famous rock islands of Palau, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning beauty. We will pass by the natural cave nicknamed the “Gas Station”, where Imperial Japanese patrol boats used to refuel, and also see Coral Arch island, which, according to local legend, was created by a giant snake!
• After cruising for a bit, we will dock at Peleliu, the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II Pacific Theatre. Designated by the US government as a “National Historic Landmark,” our expert local guide will bring you through various battle sites, tanks and plane wreckage, museum, shrines and monuments, including a hike into Death Valley on Bloody Nose Ridge, as well as the tunnel systems where 33 Japanese soldiers held out until 1947!

Afternoon

• Picnic lunch with a scenic view.
• Return to Koror and freshen up at our hotel.
• Dinner and drinks at The Canoe House Bar & Grill (Note: This is the recommended option as it is conveniently located near our hotel. There is a diverse selection of restaurants nearby, offering everything from local cuisine to Thai and Indian dishes. It’s worth noting that this will be the only stop on the tour with such a wide variety of choices, as options will become more limited after Palau), which not only boasts a great American and Asian Fusion menu, but our thirsty customers can sample the local Red Roaster brewery’s five varieties: Amber, Light, Stout, Wheat and a Tropical Ale, plus a cider for sale (don’t worry, sample flights are available so things don’t get too crazy!).
• Catch a few hours of rest before our 11:30 PM hotel departure to catch our flight to Pohnpei (via Guam – non-American citizens must have a valid US visa or ESTA unless they’re from a Guam-CNMI visa waiver country).

Monday 7th September – Koror – Pohnpei

Morning

• The Federated States of Micronesia is an independent nation comprising four states: Yap, Chuuk, Kosrae, and Pohnpei. The country consists of over 607 islands in the western Pacific and has a population of just over 100,000, with fewer than 35,000 tourists visiting each year. These remote islands are characterized by a subsistence economy focused on farming and fishing, alongside strong clan-based social structures that trace lineage through the maternal line. Like Palau, FSM is in a Compact of Free Association with the United States. This agreement, established in 1986, provides FSM with financial assistance, access to certain U.S. programs, and defense by the U.S. in exchange for certain strategic and military privileges for the U.S. in the region.
• Arrive in Pohnpei, FSM in the early afternoon.
• Transfer to our centrally located hotel in Kolonia.

Afternoon

• After check-in and a short rest, we will meet our local guide and spend the afternoon exploring the landmarks of Kolonia, the capital of Pohnpei, which has been influenced by several foreign occupations. It was founded by Spain in 1887 as a military and administrative center. After the Spanish-American War, Germany acquired Pohnpei in 1899, leading to the construction of infrastructure, though few settlers chose to stay. During World War I, Japan took control of the island, bringing in thousands of settlers who sometimes outnumbered the indigenous population, further shaping the country’s cultural identity.
• We’ll see the Japanese WWII tank graveyard followed by Japanese heavy gun batteries on a hike up Sokeh Viewpoint.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Pohnpei.

Tuesday 8th September – Pohnpei – Nan Madol – Pohnpei

Morning

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• After breakfast, we will stop and pick up snacks and provisions for the day before we visit Nan Madol. Showcasing one of the best-preserved architectural ensembles in the Pacific region, the ruins of this ancient city were the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Micronesia. Built with basalt and coral boulders, it features the remains of stone palaces, temples, tombs, and residential areas constructed between 1200 and 1500 CE, which served as the ceremonial center for the Saudeleur dynasty.

Afternoon

• After exploring Nan Madol, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch at the picturesque Kepirohi Waterfall. This scenic location offers a chance to take in one of Pohnpei’s most popular natural sights, and you can even enjoy a refreshing dip in its cool waters!
• Dinner and overnight stay in Pohnpei.

Wednesday 9th September – Pohnpei – Majuro

Morning

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Free morning in Kolonia before our late-morning departure for the airport to catch an early-afternoon flight to Majuro, capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and home to approximately half of the country’s 40,000-ish population. In the 19th century, the Marshall Islands drew the attention of European powers. After World War I they came under Japanese control, before being seized by the United States during World War II. In the years that followed, the islands became a site for numerous U.S. nuclear tests. Following a period of U.S. administration under a trusteeship, the Marshall Islands became an independent nation in 1986, entering into a Compact of Free Association with the United States that continues to influence its political and economic landscape.

Afternoon

• Evening arrival in Majuro and transfer to the largest and most renowned hotel on the atoll.
• Dinner and drinks at the hotel’s restaurant while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• Overnight in Majuro.

Thursday 10th September – Majuro – Eneko Island – Majuro

Morning

• After breakfast, we will head out to the island’s largest supermarket to pick up BBQ and BYOB provisions before heading back to our hotel’s boat launch to catch our private boat for the 30-minute boat journey to the paradise of Eneko Island. Bring your snorkel gear if you have it, as we will pass by underwater WWII plane wreckage, which is a great spot to jump out and have a look below. Eneko Island is a genuine island paradise and a great place to spend a relaxing day.

Afternoon

• Eneko Island offers plenty to do, with a pontoon to jump from, a small island to explore, and pristine beaches for soaking up the Pacific sun. If this island were anywhere else in the world, it would be packed with tourists. However, it’s not packed, and there are usually some locals hanging out playing volleyball who are more than happy for you to join in! We will head back on your boat at around 3:00 PM, passing through a number of islands and atolls to get perfect sunset shots – weather permitting!
• After being dropped off at the dock of our hotel, we recommend that you freshen up before we make our way to the Tide and Table restaurant, located a few miles away within the Robert Reimers Hotel, a landmark established in the 1970s that pays tribute to its namesake, a prominent figure celebrated for his impactful contributions to the Marshall Islands’ business and tourism sectors. Tide and Table is known for serving some of the Pacific’s finest tuna sashimi, and we’ll also have the chance to sample the resort’s BoB Whiskey, crafted from the native pandanus fruit.
• After dinner, YPT can recommend some watering holes for those looking to experience Majuro’s nightlife.
• Overnight in Majuro.

Friday 11th September – Majuro

Morning

• After breakfast, we’ll embark on a guided bus tour of Majuro led by a local representative from the Marshall Islands Tourism office, who will greet us each with a traditional welcoming garland of flowers for visitors.
• The first stop will be at a local handicrafts shop, where you can pick up souvenirs like handmade seashell necklaces, postcards, and traditional clothes.
• Next, we’ll visit the Alele Museum and delve into the cultural significance of the Alele basket, explore the history of atomic testing at Bikini Atoll (1946-1958), and learn about the vital role of canoes in Marshallese navigation.

Afternoon

• Quick lunch stop in Majuro.
• Stop at Majuro Peace Park, built to honor the WWII soldiers who fought in the Pacific.
• In the afternoon, we’ll take a scenic drive to Laura Beach, a popular local destination located east of Rongrong Isle. Here, you can unwind and enjoy a traditional Marshallese food plate weaving demonstration led by your local guide.
• For dinner, we will go to Riwut Outback, known for its exceptional traditional island cuisine. You can enjoy dishes such as Mokta, which features boiled or steamed breadfruit and serves as a hearty side or main dish. Another highlight is Kepra, a flavorful fish dish marinated and cooked in coconut milk, often accompanied by rice or taro. And don’t miss the delicious pumpkin rice!
• After dinner, you can sample the delights of Majuro town or relax at the hotel.
• Overnight in Majuro.

LEAST VISITED COUNTRIES GROUP 2

Saturday 12th September – Majuro – Tarawa, Kiribati – Betio

Morning

• Breakfast at our hotel.
• Group 1 Members: Tour concludes in Majuro – YPT can arrange post-tour accommodation or advice for ongoing flights.
• Group 2 Members: Arrive in Tarawa at your convenience and transfer to the hotel, where you will meet the rest of the group.
• Full Group Members: Free morning to explore Majuro before you transfer to the airport for the flight to Tarawa – the capital of Kiribati. Kiribati gained independence from British colonial rule in 1979. The country consists of 33 islands, with a unique political structure that includes a parliamentary system and a President as the head of state and government. Kiribati has faced significant challenges, particularly related to climate change and rising sea levels, which threaten its existence. The government has actively sought international support and collaboration to address these pressing environmental issues while promoting sustainable development and the preservation of its cultural heritage. With its highest point only 3 meters above sea level, it is predicted that the country will be underwater by 2100 if the effects of climate change are not reversed or slowed.

Afternoon

• Arrive in Tarawa in the evening and transfer to our hotel in Betio.
• Dinner and drinks at our hotel. After this, those wishing for an early night can do so, and your YPT guides can also recommend a local nightclub located nearby for a sundowner.

Sunday 13th September – Betio

Morning

• Breakfast at our hotel.
• #TOUR HIGHLIGHT# Accompanied by your local guide, who has organized tours as well as large events for returning WWII veterans, we will dive into the history of the Battle of Tarawa, fought from November 20 to 23, 1943.
• Head to Red Beach, the site of the US Marine landings, where some of the fiercest fighting occurred. Observe the remnants of the battle, including vehicles stranded in the lagoon, such as a well-preserved Sherman tank stopped in its advance by Japanese gunfire.
• Make a stop at the US War Memorial, dedicated to the 1,143 marines who lost their lives during the battle. Learn about the monument’s time capsule set to be opened in 2143.
• Visit Black Beaches 1 & 2 – Here we will get to see and photograph well-preserved British 8″ inch guns, as well as the Japanese and Korean war memorials, and the British-New Zealand-Australian Coast watchers memorial.

Afternoon

• See 1st Lt. Alexander Bonnyman’s bunker, who received the Congressional Medal of Honour after his remains were excavated in 2010, and was amongst 1,000 US marines and 4,500 Japanese marines who died in the battle.
• We will also pass by the Japanese commander’s bunker, where he and the rest of the Japanese command staff were killed whilst attempting a retreat to a new command centre.
• Conclude the tour at Green Beach, a contingency landing site used on November 21, 1943. Examine the remains of artillery, including the largest gun locally referred to as “the mountain.”
• For lunch, we will enjoy Kiribati-style Chinese cuisine.
• After a day of exploration, head back to our hotel to rest.
• In the evening, we will enjoy a local dance performance known as Taroa, which translates to “fishing line,” over drinks and dinner at a popular local bar and restaurant with the best drinks and views in Betio.
• Overnight in Tarawa.

Monday 14th September – Betio – Tarawa – Betio

Morning

• Breakfast at our hotel.
• Check out and pick up for our early morning tour. Journey across the causeway, constructed in 1986 by the Japanese to connect Betio and Tarawa. Along the way, you’ll visit the largest cathedral in Kiribati, which houses a women’s handicrafts shop and community center. We’ll also explore the Nuns’ Library, where you can learn about the history of the first missionaries to arrive in Kiribati. This library also features the historic and well-preserved Japanese Declaration of the Occupation, originally affixed to a government store by the Japanese in December 1941.

Afternoon

• Visit the post office to browse a selection of Kiribati postcards and commemorative stamps available for purchase.
• Lunch at one of the newest and poshest spots in Tarawa, which has a large menu featuring delightful seafood and Chinese entrees – including some of the most fresh sushi in the world!
• After lunch, drive up the atoll to the Parliament of Kiribati for a guided tour (provided parliament is not in session!).
• Visit Te Umanibong, the Kiribati Cultural Museum, to view displays of artefacts and other items of cultural and historic significance for the country.
• Enjoy the sunset drive back down to Betio for our final night in Kiribati where we will have dinner at a popular restaurant. After this, those wishing for an early night can do so, and your YPT guides can also recommend a local nightclub located nearby for a sundowner.
• Overnight in Betio.

Tuesday 15th September – Betio – Tarawa – Nauru

Morning

• Breakfast at our hotel.
• Depart for the airport to catch our morning flight to Nauru.
• Nauru has a complex history marked by colonialism and economic challenges. Originally inhabited by Micronesian and Polynesian peoples, Nauru was annexed by Germany in the late 19th century, later taken over by Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom during World War I. The island gained independence in 1968, and its economy flourished in the late 20th century due to phosphate mining, which led to significant wealth but left the environment severely degraded. In recent years, Nauru has faced political instability and economic difficulties, prompting reliance on foreign aid, particularly from Australia, which has included controversial immigration detention facilities on the island.
• The Island Ring Road Tour is a great introduction to Nauru. Not only is it the least visited country in the world, with around 200 tourists per year, but it is also the third smallest country in the world, after the Vatican and Monaco, with an area of only 21 km² (8 square miles).
• Visit all the main hotspots with our local guides who will relate the history and stories of each spot, including Anibare Bay, Pinnacle Rocks, Ewa Beach, Orro Congregational Church, Christian Missionary Monument, Civic Center, Post Office (who doesn’t want a postcard from the world’s least visited country?) and Buada Lagoon.

Afternoon

• Enjoy a lunch break at a local cafe, where we will also visit the island’s largest shopping center, where, in addition to a bottle shop, as well as cold drinks and snacks, you can also purchase Nauru souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, and magnets.
• After lunch, continue the Island Ring Road tour, with a stop at a WWII memorial, and a topside stop at Western Bay to see the sunset before dinner at Anibare Boat Harbor restaurant, where you can savor authentic Nauru-style Chinese cuisine. Remarkably, 8% of Nauru’s population is of Chinese descent, leading to a unique and delightful fusion of island flavors and traditional Chinese dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.
• For those eager to dive into Nauru’s nightlife, our guides can bring us to a local kava and karaoke bar, where we can savor the mellow flavors of kava, a traditional drink made from the ground roots of the South Pacific. Join in the fun and sing along to a mix of classic and contemporary pop hits with friendly locals!
• Overnight in Nauru.

Wednesday 16th September – Nauru

Morning

• *OPTIONAL ACTIVITY* Ever walked around an entire country? Ok, maybe you have, but have you ever done it in one day? Nauru is the only country in the world where it is genuinely possible to do this in a few hours, and we suggest getting up early for a 7 AM departure to enjoy a beautiful sunrise over Anibare Bay, with the morning lights enhancing the beauty of the pinnacle rocks. The walk is 19km and takes around 4 hours.

Afternoon

• After freshening up and having lunch at our hotel, we’ll head back out with our local guides to visit the Naoero museum, the national museum of Nauru, providing insight about life on the island. The museum was initially based on a private collection of Second World War material (including remains of a Japanese Zero fighter plane) and it was originally funded by the Nauru Phosphate Corporation. See if you can find the 1968 picture captioned “per head of population, Nauruans are said to be the wealthiest people in the world”!
• Though Nauru is famous for being a country without a capital, it does have a capital village, and we will head there to check out the parliament building, high court, and even peek into the President’s office.
• Ever done a national pub crawl in a day? We’ll visit all of Nauru’s 4 pubs before settling at the last one for our dinner at Bayview restaurant, widely considered the best bar and restaurant on the island. (Note: Please be aware that Nauru’s bars have irregular operating hours on weekdays, so the number of bars we can visit will depend on which ones are open.)
• Overnight in Nauru.

Thursday 17th September – Nauru – Suva, Fiji

Morning

• For your last day in Nauru, we will hike up Command Ridge, the highest point on the island and the site of some incredibly well-preserved Japanese cannons from WWII, as well as the remnants of an imperialist Japanese prison. Before it became a prison, it was a German communication center.
• We will also stop by a former phosphate facility to learn about Nauru’s phosphate mining industry. Revenues from the mining operations are estimated to have been AUD$100-120 million annually from independence through virtual resource exhaustion in the early 1990s. Nauru is, however, widely regarded as a classic example of the “natural resource curse,” when countries fail to translate substantial mineral wealth into sustainable long-term development.

Afternoon

• After a lunch at a restaurant specializing in traditional island cuisine, we will visit John Short’s Handicraft Workshop for unique Nauru woodworks.
• Check out of our hotel and check in for our flight. Head over to a nearby Cantonese restaurant for dinner before our evening flight to Fiji.
• After a late arrival in Suva, we will transfer to our hotel situated near the airport, where the staff will keep the kitchen and bar open for us.
• Overnight near the airport in Suva.

Friday 18th September – Suva

Morning

• Breakfast at our hotel.
• After two weeks of travel, embrace a leisurely morning, allowing yourself a late start to reconnect with our routine and catch up on emails, laundry, and other essentials.

Afternoon

• YPT will arrange transportation to the Fiji’s National Museum, located within Suva’s botanical gardens.
• After, we will head to the city’s main wharf to visit the Municipal Market which sells fresh goods, and also visit the nearby Suva Handicraft Center which stocks printed traditional masi (tapa cloth), war clubs, drums and kava bowls.
• We will close out the day with a leisurely hike and swimming at a waterfall followed by a stop at the oceanside to watch the sunset on the beach.
• Dinner and overnight in Suva.

LEAST VISITED COUNTRIES GROUP 3

Saturday 19th September – Suva – Funafuti, Tuvalu

Morning

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Group 2 Members: Tour concludes in Suva – YPT is able to arrange post-tour accommodation or advice for ongoing flights.
• Group 3 Members: Arrive at Suva Nausori International Airport in time to meet the rest of the group for your morning flight to Tuvalu.
• Full Group Members: Early departure for our flight to the third-least-visited country in the world, Tuvalu! Tuvalu gained independence from British colonial rule in 1978. The country is made up of nine islands and atolls, which have historically relied on subsistence agriculture and fishing. Politically, Tuvalu is a parliamentary democracy, with a Prime Minister serving as the head of government and a ceremonial Governor-General representing the monarch of the United Kingdom. In recent years, Tuvalu has gained international attention for its efforts to combat climate change and rising sea levels, which pose a significant threat to its low-lying islands. Unlike Kiribati, to which Tuvalu was previously adjoined when the two countries comprised the Gilbert and Ellice Islands, Tuvalu has effectively implemented a range of green policies and land reclamation initiatives designed to address the impacts of climate change.
• Early-afternoon arrival in Tuvalu and greet our local guides. Funafuti is hardly a sprawling metropolis, and the island’s main proper hotel is conveniently only a 50-meter walk from the airport. We will have time to freshen up and eat lunch before heading out to explore Funafuti.

Afternoon

• Funafuti bus tour! As we journey through both ends of Funafuti, we’ll stop for a photo op at the island’s narrowest point. You’ll also check out Darwin’s drill site, which was pivotal to his research on the origins of atolls. Additionally, we’ll encounter remnants of WWII machinery left behind by the Americans, who utilized the island as a staging ground for the Battle of Tarawa and bombing raids on Nauru.
• One of the highlights of the island drive is seeing how the runway of the airport turns into a playground in between the handful of international flights which come and go each week, and in the evening we will see locals gathering to play all sorts of games, including Kilikiti (a regional variant of cricket) and Te Ano (a distinctive form of volleyball).
• Indulge in a delightful buffet-style, welcome dinner featuring the finest island cuisine in Tuvalu, lovingly prepared by our local guide and his family in the warmth of their home. As you savor this delicious meal, you can engage in conversation with your guide and his family about life in Tuvalu, while being entertained by a fun dance performance put on by your host’s family.
• Overnight in Funafuti.

Sunday 20th September – Funafuti – Fualefeke Island – Funafuti

Morning

• Early start to take boats out for the day across Funafuti lagoon to explore some of the surrounding, sparsely inhabited islets, where you will land and spend the day relaxing with your guide and a few locals on the beach of this untouched island paradise. Those aquatically inclined should bring their snorkelling masks to check out the reefs.

Afternoon

• BBQ lunch of fresh seafood caught by your guides right out of the lagoon! After an afternoon relaxing on the beach, head back to Funafuti to freshen up at the hotel.
• Dinner at our hotel or your YPT guides can recommend some walkable alternatives.
• Overnight in Funafuti.

Monday 21st September – Funafuti – Nadi – Apia

Morning

• Kick off our final morning in Tuvalu with a guided tour of Funafuti’s main government building, which is home to all the nation’s government departments, including the Prime Minister’s office. Take a moment to peek into his office and see if we can catch a brief hello (it’s happened before)!
• Visit the National Archives and Tuvalu Philatelic Bureau, where, in addition to being able to mail a postcard, we’ll discover one of the most eclectic collections of commemorative stamps for sale in any of the countries we visit on this tour. The themes range from “The Women of Star Trek” to significant political events and anniversaries, making it a fascinating stop for stamp enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Afternoon

• Board our flight for the long trek to Apia via Nadi, where we will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to our hotel, renowned for its warm hospitality and operated by the island’s most gracious hosts!
• Samoa’s history dates back over 3,000 years, with Polynesian settlers establishing their culture and social structure. In the late 19th century, Samoa became a focal point for colonial competition, leading to the division of the islands into two territories: American Samoa, which remains a U.S. territory, and independent Samoa, which gained sovereignty in 1962. Politically, Samoa operates as a parliamentary democracy, with a Prime Minister serving as the head of government and a ceremonial O le Ao o le Malo as the head of state. The nation has made significant strides in recent years toward economic development while maintaining its cultural heritage and addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change and natural disasters.
• Overnight in Apia.

Tuesday 22nd September – Apia

Morning

• After breakfast, hop on the resort’s traditional Aiga bus for a guided tour of downtown Apia where we will pass by parliament, visit a local market, snap photos of Apia’s amazingly unique public buses, walk along the sea wall, stop by the post office, visitor’s center and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral known for its blend of colonial and Samoan architecture.

Afternoon

• After a seafood lunch at Apia Wharf, we’ll make our way through the island’s interior and visit the museum and home of author Robert Louis Stevenson (The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde).
• After, we will stop for photos at the scenic Sopo’aga Falls Viewpoint, before going for a sunset dip in the To Sua sinkholes.
• Return to our accommodation to freshen up before a traditional Fia Fia buffet feast, featuring a wide selection of dishes, usually including pork, chicken, and fresh seafood. Side dishes typically include taro (talo), breadfruit (ulu), and palusami, which is taro leaves baked slowly in coconut cream. There will also be fresh tropical fruits and oka, a Samoan style raw fish marinated in coconut cream. There will also be ice cold Samoan Vailima beer for sale! While you savor your meal, enjoy local entertainment featuring traditional song and fire dancing!
• After dinner, your YPT guides are eager to lead anyone interested in exploring the nightlife at Apia Wharf, where charming marina-side bars await. For those feeling lucky, there’s also the chance to place a few bets at the Black Sands Casino.
• Overnight in Apia.

Wednesday 23rd September – Apia – Nadi – Nuku’Alofa, Tonga

Morning

• After a farewell breakfast, experience the daily flag raising ceremony in Apia, led by the Samoan Police Marching Band. Each weekday morning, the band marches to Government House, performs the national anthem, and raises the Samoan flag in a tradition that symbolizes national pride and unity. It is one of the most iconic morning rituals in Samoa and a memorable cultural moment to witness.
• Depart for the airport to catch our flight to Nuku’Alofa, Tonga (via Nadi), landing just after midnight.
• Meet our local guide and transfer to our hotel located in downtown Nuku’alofa.
• Tonga has a rich history marked by its status as one of the few remaining monarchies in the region. The Kingdom of Tonga has maintained a constitutional monarchy since 1875, with the current monarch, King Tupou VI, ascending to the throne in 2012. The country has experienced significant political changes in recent years, particularly with the introduction of democratic reforms that expanded voting rights and political participation. Despite its small size, Tonga plays a vital role in regional politics and has been involved in various international organizations, working to address issues such as climate change and sustainable development.

Thursday 24th September – Nuku’Alofa, Tonga

Morning

• After breakfast, we make the most of our one full day on Tongatapu with a comprehensive island tour. We’ll start with a stop at Talamahu Market for souvenirs and local crafts, then drive past the Royal Palace. While modest in appearance and built of wood, it remains the official residence of the King of Tonga and an important symbol of the country’s monarchy.
• Drive out to the Eastern district of Tongatapu to the ancient remains of Mu’a, the ancient capital of the Tu’i Tonga empire, where you can see the numerous tombs of Tongan kings.
• Visit Ha’amonga ‘a Maui, a 13th century stone trilithon often referred to as the “Stonehenge of the Pacific.” Built from massive coral limestone blocks weighing an estimated 30 to 40 tons each, the monument was commissioned by the Tu‘i Tonga king Tuʻitātui and is traditionally said to honor his two sons. The name translates as “the burden of Maui,” referencing the legendary Polynesian cultural hero. Nearby, we’ll also see ‘Esi Maka Fa‘akinanga, a large stone believed to have served as a royal throne, positioned to protect the king from attack. Scholars have suggested the structure may have had astronomical significance linked to solstices and equinoxes, though this remains debated.

Afternoon

• For lunch, we will make a quick, delicious BBQ stop before continuing on the island tour.
• Next, we drive across the island, stopping at several of Tongatapu’s natural highlights along the way. We’ll visit the infamous three headed coconut tree, see Tsunami Rock, and continue on to Mapu‘a Vaea, where waves crash into ancient volcanic rock formations, sending seawater high into the air through a dramatic series of natural blowholes.
• We’ll then enjoy a special Tonga style tongananga with our local guide’s family, featuring a spread of traditional island dishes and accompanied by local hospitality and entertainment.
• Overnight in Nuku’alofa.

LEAST VISITED COUNTRIES GROUP 4

Friday 25th September – Nuku’Alofa – Nadi – Port Vila, Vanuatu

Morning

• Group 3 Members: Tour concludes in Tonga – YPT is able to arrange post-tour accommodation or advice for ongoing flights.
• Group 4 Members: Arrive in Port Vila at your convenience and transfer to the hotel where you will meet the rest of the group.
• Full Group Members: Early departure to the Nuku’alofa airport for our flight to Vanuatu via Nadi, arriving in Port Vila, Vanuatu in the afternoon, and transferring to our centrally located hotel.
• Vanuatu gained independence from joint British and French colonial rule in 1980, marking the culmination of a nationalist movement that sought self-determination. The country operates as a parliamentary democracy, with a President serving as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government, reflecting a blend of traditional Melanesian leadership and modern political structures. Vanuatu’s political landscape has been characterized by frequent changes in government and coalition politics, often influenced by regional issues and international relations, particularly with Australia, New Zealand, and China. Additionally, Vanuatu, like other island countries in the region, has been active in advocating for climate change awareness and action, given its vulnerability to natural disasters and rising sea levels.

Afternoon

• After check-in, head out with our guide to see Port Vila city highlights, including the Parliament, Chief’s Nakamal, Erakor Landing, Mahitahi handicrafts market, Independence Park, and the WWII memorial and lookout – though a recent earthquake caused the memorial stone to topple! You will also learn about Vanuatu’s unusual colonial history: France and the UK both claimed parts of the archipelago and eventually agreed to manage it through an Anglo-French condominium.
• Dinner at the legendary L’Houstalet French restaurant, famous for its wild pigeon, coconut crab, and flying fox.
• Overnight in Port Vila.

Saturday 26th September – Port Vila

Morning

• After breakfast, embark on a day tour of Port Vila’s cultural and natural sites, starting with a window into Vanuatu’s traditional history at Larofa Cultural Village with demonstrations on hunting and fishing, fire walking, a welcoming song, and a lively music sing-along, and then the serene beauty of Blue Lagoon, a tranquil oasis filled with shady spots and stunning scenery. Its cool waters are refreshing on a hot, humid day, and there are plenty of shaded areas to relax and enjoy a fruit platter provided by our local guide.

Afternoon

• After enjoying home-cooked island cuisine at Blue Lagoon, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Rarru Waterfalls. This picturesque cascade features crystal-clear waters, a jumping platform and a rope swing for a refreshing dip.
• Finally, we finish our city tour at an authentic Vanuatu Kava Bar where our guides will give us a proper demonstration on how to drink Kava, known for its sedative qualities, replete with pallet-cleansing snacks called “washemout.”
• Head back to our hotel to refresh before indulging in dinner at the exquisite Blue Stone Grill. Renowned for its stunning views and mouthwatering surf and turf delicacies served on sizzling hot stones, this dining experience promises to be unforgettable.
• Overnight in Port Vila.

Sunday 27th September – Port Vila – Honiara, Solomon Islands

Morning

• Early departure from our hotel to catch our morning flight to Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands.
• The Solomon Islands gained independence from British colonial rule in 1978, following a period of political agitation and a growing desire for self-governance among its diverse island communities. The country has a parliamentary democracy, with a Prime Minister serving as the head of government and a Governor-General representing the British monarch as head of state. Political stability has been challenged by ethnic tensions, particularly during the civil unrest known as the “Tensions” from 1998 to 2003, which prompted international intervention and peacekeeping efforts. In recent years, the Solomon Islands has sought to strengthen its diplomatic ties with both Australia and China, navigating regional influences while addressing domestic issues such as economic development and climate change.
• Transfer to the legendary Honiara Hotel.

Afternoon

• After check-in, we’ll head out with our local guide to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Birao people at Hotomai Cultural Village, located in Central Guadalcanal between Belaha and Tenaru Falls. Here we will witness demonstrations of traditional dances, culinary practices, and cultural homes. The visit begins with a warrior-style greeting, setting the stage for an authentic cultural journey.
• After returning to the Honiara Hotel, we’ll have a chance to explore this local institution – meet the eccentric owner, Sir Thomas Chan, and chat about his life in politics on the island, as well as his experiences meeting various members of the Royal Family and being invested as a knight by the Queen.
• We have the choice to dine in the opulent Club Havana or poolside at the Oasis Restaurant and finish with drinks by the pool at our hotel. If you fancy an after-dinner treat, the Cathliro Chocolate Haus also offers excellent fresh-brewed espresso and locally made chocolate.

Monday 28th September – Honiara

Morning

• Up early for breakfast and a Honiara day tour. First, we will explore Honiara central market, which is where real Solomon life occurs, and have a chance to buy local souvenirs such as handicrafts and shell money necklaces.
• Following this, embark on a full city tour including all the monuments to WW2, parliament, and the national museum.

Afternoon

• The way to really discover a country is through its street food, so on the journey to the next part of the tour, we will stop at a row of food stalls where the choices range from grilled lobster, chicken, or fish served with rice and pumpkin.
• Head to a beach which has a major Japanese WW2 wreck for some wreck snorkelling and underwater photography, as well as great views of the city of Honiara, whilst enjoying the beach.
• After freshening up at the hotel, head out for a Solomon Islands family-style Chinese dinner.
• Overnight at Honiara Hotel.

Tuesday 29th September – Honiara – Roderick Bay – Honiara

Morning

• After breakfast, take the one and a half hour boat ride to Roderick Bay, located within the scenic Sandfly Passage of Ngella Sule Island.
• Arrive at Roderick Bay, where you will spend the rest of the morning exploring the shipwreck of The MS World Discoverer, a cruise ship specifically designed and constructed by Schichau Unterweser in Germany in 1974. In 2000, it collided with an underwater obstacle, sustaining damage; to prevent it from sinking, the ship was grounded and ultimately abandoned in Roderick Bay.

Afternoon

• Spend the afternoon exploring the Solomon villages on the island, interacting with locals, hiking in the beautiful scenery, or simply hanging out by the beach for swimming, snorkelling or canoeing in traditional dugout canoes!
• Return and freshen before dinner at Tenkai Sushi Cafe which offers fresh sushi, ramen, tempura and other popular Japanese dishes.
• Overnight at the Honiara Hotel.

Wednesday 30th September – Honiara

Morning

• Following breakfast, we conclude our exploration of the Solomon Islands with a visit to Red Beach, a significant World War II landing site situated approximately 10 kilometers east of Honiara on Guadalcanal. It was here that U.S. Marines landed in 1942, initiating the crucial Guadalcanal Campaign.
• We’ll then visit the Memorial Garden at Henderson Airport in the Solomon Islands, a location dedicated to honoring the soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives during the Guadalcanal Campaign of World War II. This tranquil site is conveniently situated next to the airport terminal in Honiara.
• Buffet-style lunch near the airport.

Afternoon

• Next, we head to the Betikama War Museum, located at Betikama Adventist College near Honiara. This museum features an impressive collection of World War II relics, such as weapons, aircraft parts, and equipment, preserving the history of the Guadalcanal Campaign.
• Our journey concludes with a visit to the Holy Cross Cathedral in Honiara, a Catholic landmark erected in 1978. Situated on the historic site where Spanish explorers first planted a Christian cross in 1568.
• We’ll freshen up for a farewell dinner at the illustrious Coral Sea Resort.

Thursday 1st October – Honiara

• The tour concludes in Honiara, where YPT can assist in arranging post-tour accommodations and activities.
• We will say goodby to our friends who are departing, for those joining out any of our exciting tour extensions or heading on with us to Papua New Guinea, you can take advantage of the afternoon to sleep in, do laundry and catch up with the outside world!
• Those joining YPT’s Munda & Gizo Island Hopping Extension will take the early morning flight to Munda on the 1st.