East Rennell constitutes the southern part of Rennell Island, the southern most island of the Solomon Islands, an archipelagic nation in the Western Pacific. It covers portions of the Rennell and Bellona Province Rennell Island, with a length and breadth of 86 km and 15 km, respectively, and area of 37,000 hectares is the second largest raised coral atoll in the world.

Rennell Island (local name Mungava) is the main of two inhabited islands that make up the Rennell and Bellona Provinces of Solomon Islands.

A major feature of Rennell island is Lake Tegano, the largest lake in the insular Pacific and includes several rugged limestone islands and endemic species. Rennell is mostly covered with dense forest. The western part of the island is a relatively flat and is dotted with rolling hills. Rennell Island has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Climate:

Rennell has a tropical humid type of climate with high, regular temperature ranging from 23 degree Celsius to 32 degree Celsius. The island gets an annual rainfall between 3,000 and 4,000 mm, with May-June being a dry period. It also witnesses frequent cyclones.

Animals:

Marine fish (36 different species), land snails, coconut crabs, sea kraits and insects.

Birds:

Rennel island is home to various avifauna species like Bare-eyed White-eye, Rennell Starling, Rennell Fantail, Rennell Shrikebill and others.

Attractions and activities:

• Lake Tegano:
  The big lake, the bordering islets at the western end of the lake, the wildlife and the underwater wrecks of several seaplanes from World War II.
• Caves with streams running through.
• Canoeing in and around Lake Tegano.
• Snorkeling at various places around the island.
• Diving (tourists must bring their own gear)
• Bush walking
• Camping
• Bird watching

Reaching:

By air:
Rennell’s airstrip is located at Tigoa, the provincial capital of Rennell and Bellona. Solomon Airlines link the island twice a week.

By Boat:
Occasional boat services are available to Lavanggu in East Rennell. The trip takes a day and a half from Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands. Sleeping on deck is the norm.

Getting Around

By Road:
Rennell has only one road. Lake Tegano is 46 km from the airstrip and it takes about 3 hours. Pickup trucks are general modes of transportation.

By Foot:
Inside the village, one can easily explore the surroundings on foot.

Accommodation in East Rennell:

• Neitasi Lodge
• Kiakoe Lodge
• Henua Goto Lodge
• Home stay accommodation at Niupani village, located along lake Tegano coastline
• Kisa Home stay accommodation