Tigoa

Tigoa is the main settlement on Rennell Island in Rennell and Bellona Province, Solomon Islands. It serves as the provincial administrative centre and is located on the western shore of Lake Tegano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lake Tegano is the largest enclosed lake in the Pacific Islands, a brackish body of water that was once part of the ocean. Rennell Island is a raised coral atoll with dramatic limestone cliffs rising up to 100 m. The island has a unique ecosystem with many endemic species. The climate is tropical with consistent temperatures year-round, though the island is exposed to cyclones during the wet season from November to March.

By Plane

Tigoa Airport (IATA: RNN) is served by Solomon Airlines flights from Honiara. Flights operate several times a week. The airport is a short walk or truck ride from the settlement.

By Car / Road

There is no road network connecting Rennell to other islands. Within the island, a rough road runs between Tigoa and other villages. The main transport is by truck or on foot.

Tigoa is compact and walkable. Trucks provide transport along the island's main track to other villages. Boats are used to explore Lake Tegano.

• Lake Tegano — the largest enclosed lake in the Pacific, with brackish water, endemic fish species, and sea turtles.

• UNESCO World Heritage listing — the East Rennell area is designated for its unique ecosystem.

• Limestone cliffs and caves — dramatic karst formations along the island's edge.

• Endemic bird species — Rennell is home to several birds found nowhere else.

• Tigoa village — the provincial centre with government offices and a market.

• Lake Tegano boat tour — explore the vast lake by local boat, spotting wildlife along the shore.

• Birdwatching — look for endemic species in the forest and around the lake.

• Caving — explore limestone caves along the coast.

• Guided nature walks — trek through the island's unique forest ecosystem.

guesthouses serve local fish, taro, sweet potato, and coconut. No restaurants.

coconut water and soft drinks from trade stores. Treat drinking water.

• Budget: basic guesthouses in Tigoa offer simple rooms with shared facilities.
• Mid-range: No mid-range accommodation is available.
• Upscale: No upscale accommodation available.

basic trade stores sell essentials. Bring any specialty items from Honiara.

• Lake Tegano — explore the full extent of the lake.
• Niupani (east along the lake) — village on Lake Tegano's shore.
• Hutuna (further east) — traditional village on Rennell's south coast.
• Bellona Island (north by boat or air) — the other inhabited island of the province.