Nature Culture History
Embark on a journey where nature and cultural awe intwines with relaxation
Hello and welcome!
Rabaul Getaway Tours
With nearly two decades of premier guiding expertise, Rabaul Getaway Tours specializes in crafting extraordinary, off-the-beaten-path itineraries across the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea.
We also provide comprehensive shipping agency services, seamless logistics, timely provisions, and elite shore excursions
Raun Raun Itinerary - 9 days
Day 1 : Welcome to the Land of Discovery
Your journey begins as you touch down in Port Moresby, where you will be met by your personal tour guide and escorted to the premier Holiday Inn & Suites to check in and refresh.
Once settled, you will step out to explore the vibrant heart of Papua New Guinea's capital city. The highlight of the afternoon is an immersive visit to the lush Port Moresby Nature Park, where you will come face-to-face with the spectacular Raggiana Bird of Paradise - the iconic national symbol. After an enchanting introduction to the region's unique flora and fauna, you will return to the comfort of your hotel for a relaxing dinner and a restful evening, perfectly setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 : Island Escape & Coastal Harmonies
Leave the capital behind as you fly from Port Moresby to Kavieng, the gateway to New Ireland Province, Upon arrival, a brief drive brings you to Kavieng wharf, where a scenic 5-minute boat ride whisks you across the turquoise water to the eco-sanctuary of Nusa Island Retreat.
After checking in to your traditional, overwater-style bungalow, the afternoon is yours to unind, listen to the lapping waves, and fully immerse yourself in island time. As evening falls, dinner becomes a celebratory feast featuring fresh, locally caught seafood and organic island vegetables. your day concludes with a intriging cultural performance.
Day 3 : Island, Relics and Sunset Cruise
Embark on a captivation island-hopping expedition starting right at your doorstep. your local guide will lead you through the facinating histories of Nusa Lik (the home of your retreat) and neighboring Nusa Lavu. Here, the past and the present collide as you discover remarkable World War 2 relics amougst the villages and witness the raw power of a spectacular, natural blowhole carving through the coastal rocks.
For Lunch, a quick 10-minute boat ride brings you to the pristine shores of Nago Island for an exclusive beachside picnic. Spend a blissful afternoon swimming in crystal-clear waters and relaxing on the sand. As the day winds down, return on a calming sunset cruise to weave past neighboring islands before arriving to the retreat for another delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 4 : Road Trip, Coastline and Hidden Oasis
After an early breakfast, check out at 8:00 AM and make a quick stop at the vibrant Kavieng Market to gather fresh tropical fruits and local snacks for the road. Then, set off on an unforgettable road trip down New Ireland's iconic Boluminski HIghway, where the coastline unfolds into spectacular views.
Your first encounter is at the Laraibina Eel Farm, where you will witness the fascinating relationship between the locals and the tamed, hand-fed river eels. Next, cool off at the crystal-clear Fissoa Waterhole for a refreshing dip and splash followed by a relaxing picnic lunch. Continue the journey to the picturesque Dalom Village, a paradise for sightseeing and capturing stunning photos of the pristine river running directly into the sea.
As dusk falls, arrive at the tranquil Rubio Plantation Resort. Check into your room just in time to watch the sunset over the waves and enjoy a hearty, plantation-fresh dinner.
Day 5 : Chocolate, Shark Callers and Cuisine
Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast before diving into a sweet, hands-on experience: a tree-to-bar chocolate making demonstration. trace the entire process right on the plantation, from cutting open a raw cocoa pod to tasting the rich, finished chocolate bar.
Next, travel to Komolabur Village, for a truely awe-inspiring cultural encounter. You will witness a demonstration of traditional shark calling led by a master shark caller - a sacred, ancient tradition unique to the waters of New Ireland. After the demonstration, enjoy a packed picnic lunch provided by Rubio Plantation Resort against a stunning coastal backdrop.
Return to the resort in the afternoon to witness the preparation of a traditional mumu - Papua New Guinea's famous national dish, which you will later enjoy as your dinner before retiring for a restful night.
Day 6 : Island Hopping to East New Britain
After an 8:00 AM checkout from Rubio Plantaion Resort, step aboard for an exhilarating 1-hour boat journey across the water to pristine Duke of York Islands. Your destination is the sandy oasis of Corey Coral Retreat, where you will be greeted on the shore by the rhythms and colors of a traditional welcome dance.
From there, escape to nearby Pangpang Paradise Island, a mesmerizing sandbar surrounded by vibrant turquoise waters. Spend your morning relaxing on the white sand before enjoying a island-themed lunch.
After lunch, cruise across the channel to Kokopo in East New Britain Province. Check into the beautiful Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, where you can unpack and unwind with the stunning and distant views of the volcanic habor. As night falls, enjoy a wonderful dinner accompanied by the joyful, acoustic melodies of a local live string band.
Day 7 : Volcanic Peak, Tour and Taste Buds
Your day begins with an early 6:00 AM trek up the slopes of Mount Tavurvur, an active volcano offering otherworldly landscapes and panoramic views of the caldera. After decending, head to the historic Rabaul Hotel to refresh and enjoy breakfast.
Next, you will be taken on a tour of Rabaul's histories, sightseeing World War 2 relics, aftermath of the twin volcanic eruptions in 1994, and colonial occupation. Your tour ends at the Rabaul Vocanic Observatory, peached high on a ridge. This scientific nerve center offers the most breathtaking, panoramic vantage point overlooking Rabaul, as you learn how scientists track the earth's fiery pulse.
Lunch is at Kulau Lodge, a 20-minute drive along the coast from Rabaul. Here you will see a cooking demonstration of East New Britain's signature cultural dish: Aigir - where fresh ingredients are cooked using white-hot river rocks and rich coconut cream. Before tasting this local delicacy for lunch, you will be treated to a traditional performance by Masked Dancers, bringing the surrounding villages' ancient spirits to life. Finally, return back to Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort for a relaxing dinner, retiring early to rest after an unforgettable, action-packed day.
Day 8 : Dolphins and Mythologial Dancers
Your day starts early with a boat excursion into the calm waters near Kokopo. Here, you will experience the breathtaking opportunity to swim alongside hundreds of playful, wild spinner dolphins in their natural breeding ground. After an exhilarating morning in the water, return to the resort at 9:00 AM for breakfast and quick refresh.
At 10:00 AM, set out to explore the sights and produces sold in the bustling Kokopo Market, before taking a 30-minute drive up to Tamam Heights Cultural Centre. Here, you will be deeply immersed in Tolai Culture, welcomed by the echoing thuds of the tradtional garamut slit-drum, followed by insighful explaination of Tabu Shell Money - the enduring traditional currency of the Tolai people. The morning climax in a participating encounter with the revered Tumbuan masked spirit.
Then, it is back to the resort by 3:00 PM for an early dinner. At 6:30 PM, take a 45-minute drive into the mist-shrouded rainforests of the Baining Rangers to witness the legendary, world-famous Baining Fire Dance. Watch in absolute awe as masked dancers entire a trance-like state and violently charge the roaring flames.
Day 9 : Return to Capital
Your incredible island journey comes full circle as you checkout of the resort and depart East New Britain, flying back to Port Moresby. Upon arrival, you will be met by your driver and escorted back to the farmilar luxury and comfort of the Holiday Inn & Suites to check-in and refresh.
Spend a relaxed final afternoon visiting the Papua New Guinea National Meseum & Art Gallery to view spectacular and diverse collection of Tribal Artifacts and towering spirit house poles; see if you can identify some from you recent island trip. Then, visit the Papua New Guinea Parliment House; this iconic building is a stunning architectural masterpiece, famously designed in the style of a traditional Haus Tambaran (Spirit House) celebrating immense tribal diversity and political history of the nation.
Conclude your unforgettable expedition with a grand farewell dinner with your local guide at the Faya Haus Restaurant, celebrating a spectacular trip that beautifully entwined peaceful relaxation, cultural awe, and timeless historical relics.
Raun Raun Itinerary - photo gallery
