The Solomon Islands Driving Guide is your essential resource for discovering this remote yet remarkable South Pacific destination. With its unspoiled beaches, thriving coral reefs, and deep-rooted cultural heritage, the Solomon Islands provide an enriching travel experience. Driving offers you the freedom to explore these scattered islands at your own pace, whether you’re trekking through Guadalcanal’s jungles or diving off the coast of Munda.

Why Drive in the Solomon Islands?

The Solomon Islands is an archipelago of nearly 1,000 islands, located east of Papua New Guinea and northeast of Australia. Unlike its more commercial neighbors, the Solomon Islands offers a raw, uncommercialized experience. Renting a vehicle allows you to explore villages, hiking trails, dive sites, and historic battlefields that aren’t easily accessible via public transport.

With a rental car, you’re not limited to guided tours. Instead, you can travel freely across the six main islands — Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Malaita, Makira, New Georgia, and Santa Isabel — discovering waterfalls, volcanoes, beaches, and cultural landmarks at your own pace.

How to Get an IDP for Solomon Islands

Planning to drive in Solomon Islands? You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your valid driver’s license from your home country. The IDP serves as an official translation of your license, helping local authorities verify your driving credentials and ensuring you stay compliant with Solomon Islandsan road laws.

Fast, Digital IDP Translations – No Hassle, No Waiting

If you’re already traveling or pressed for time, applying for a digital IDP translation straight to your inbox in just 6–24 hours. Unlike traditional government-issued permits that require mailing or in-person visits, our service delivers a digital IDP translation straight to your inbox in just 6–24 hours.

Perfect for:

• Travelers who are already abroad
• Last-minute international trips
• Car rental companies that accept translated licenses

Your digital IDP translation:

• Is delivered via email
• Translates your license into 12+ languages
• Is accepted by most international car rental agencies

Check our pricing plans for a full breakdown of packages and processing times.

You can also visit our Solomon Islands-specific IDP page to get started.

What to Know Before Driving

Geographic and Cultural Overview

The Solomon Islands experiences a humid tropical climate with cooling sea breezes. The region is home to over 70 languages, although Melanesian Pidgin is the most widely spoken. The terrain includes mountainous interiors and low-lying atolls, making four-wheel-drive vehicles ideal for travel.

Road Infrastructure

Only 15% of the country’s roads are paved. Most paved roads are located in and around Honiara, Guadalcanal, and parts of the Western Province. Expect unsealed, poorly maintained roads outside urban centers, and avoid night driving due to minimal lighting and signage.

Renting a Car in the Solomon Islands

Car Rental Agencies

Car rental services are available through international brands like Avis and Hertz, as well as local providers. Booking in advance is recommended due to limited vehicle availability, especially during peak seasons.

Required Documents

To rent a vehicle, you’ll need:

• A valid driver’s license

• An IDP (if your license is not in English or uses non-Roman characters)

• Passport for ID

• Credit card for payment and deposit

Types of Vehicles Available

Common rentals include:

• Toyota RAV4

• Toyota Avensis

• Ford Mondeo

SUVs and 4WDs are preferred due to rough road conditions. Vans are available for larger groups.

Rental Costs

Prices may vary, but typical daily rates include:

• Intermediate SUV: $99

• Midsize SUV: $102

• Full-size SUV: $118

• Compact SUV: $101

• Passenger Van: $141

Fuel costs and insurance coverage affect pricing, so review your rental agreement thoroughly.

Driver Age and Restrictions

The minimum age to rent a car is 21. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge and restricted from renting certain vehicle classes. Most companies also require a license held for at least two years.

Driving Laws in the Solomon Islands

Side of the Road

You must drive on the left-hand side of the road in the Solomon Islands. This can take some adjustment if you’re used to driving on the right.

Speed Limits

• Urban areas: 40 km/h

• Rural roads: 60 km/h

• School zones: Reduce speed as marked

Violations may result in heavy fines or imprisonment. Speeding is a major contributor to local road accidents.

Drunk Driving

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Drunk driving is strictly prohibited and carries heavy penalties, including detention and vehicle impoundment.

Seat Belt Laws

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Children must ride in the back seat and be secured, although car seat laws are not enforced. Avoid placing children in the front seat or on your lap.

Mobile Phone Use

Using a mobile phone while driving is discouraged unless you have a hands-free device. Fines or warnings may apply if you’re caught using a handheld phone.

Navigating Road Conditions

Checkpoints and Police Stops

Random checkpoints are common. Be prepared to show:

• Domestic driver’s license

• IDP

• Passport

• Car rental agreement

If you’re stopped, remain calm and polite. If unsure about the officer’s identity, request their credentials.

Parking

Hotels generally offer free parking. In towns, only park in designated areas and avoid parking on hills to prevent rollbacks. Always leave enough space between your vehicle and others.

Safety Precautions

• Avoid driving at night

• Carry a spare tire and emergency kit

• Keep your windows closed in rural areas

• Don’t overtake unless it’s safe and legal

Local Driving Culture

Driving standards can vary widely. Some local drivers chew betel nuts and may open vehicle doors while driving to spit on the road. Be vigilant, especially when overtaking or navigating urban traffic.

Many locals drive overloaded trucks or poorly maintained vehicles. Proceed with caution and patience, particularly in crowded areas like Honiara.

Top Destinations to Explore by Car

Dive Munda

Located in Western Province, Dive Munda is a renowned diving site offering reef, cave, and WWII wreck diving. It’s also a hub for eco-tourism.

Things to do:

• Join day and night dive trips

• Try cave diving through forest tunnels

• Take beginner courses at Try Scuba

• Stay at the nearby Agnes Gateway Hotel

Solomon Islands National Museum

Found in Honiara, the museum houses artifacts from WWII and showcases local culture and history.

Things to do:

• View ancient weapons, ornaments, and photos

• Learn about the country’s role in WWII

• Buy handcrafted souvenirs at the gift shop

Honiara Botanical Gardens

An ecological sanctuary in the capital, the gardens are ideal for nature walks and historical exploration.

Things to do:

• Hike woodland trails with WWII relics

• Visit the orchid house

• Relax at the picnic area

Practical Tips for Visitors

Dress Code

Locals dress conservatively. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is ideal. In rural areas, avoid revealing attire. Always remove shoes before entering homes.

Costs and Budgeting

The Solomon Islands Dollar (SI$) is the local currency. Average daily spending is around $140, which includes food, transport, and lodging. Budget-conscious travelers should travel in groups to reduce accommodation costs.

Safety Advice

• Avoid large gatherings or protests

• Do not trespass on private land

• Refrain from swearing in public

• Walk with a guide after dark

• Keep valuables out of sight

Long-Term Stay and Employment

Working as a Driver

Visitors can apply for driver positions, such as personal or freight drivers, bus drivers, or taxi operators. A valid employment visa and local license are required.

Residency and Citizenship

Foreigners may apply for permanent residency or citizenship through the Ministry of Home Affairs. Applications must include translated and certified documents and may incur fees ranging from $1,000 to $20,000.

Final Thoughts

Exploring the Solomon Islands by car is one of the best ways to experience its raw beauty and cultural depth. This Solomon Islands Driving Guide helps ensure you’re fully prepared to navigate everything from rugged coastlines to historic city streets. With the right documents and awareness of local rules, your adventure through this hidden Pacific paradise will be both safe and unforgettable.

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