02 Nov 2022

Tetepare's Legendary History, Wildlife, and Conservation Efforts

Stepping off the luxury of Heritage Adventurer, today saw us venturing the Western Province of the Solomon Islands to the once uninhabited island of Tetepare. The 120sqkm of lush, thickly wooded island is said to have been once inhabited by a racially and linguistically distinct tribe known for their fierce warrior traditions. As legend has it, these proud people offended their gods and were soon met with storms and disease-leaving the island after declaring it cursed and to never return.

These days, the island of Tetepare is preserved by elders entrusted with the safekeeping of some of the region's most unique and exotic animals. After learning about Tetepare's history, our guides took us up close to the island's giant Coconut Crabs who hung onto trees just as their namesake suggests. An incredible sight, only to be matched later on as our guides then took us close enough to find an endangered hawksbill turtle-a true testament of the successful efforts from the island's elders to keep these creatures safe.

The day would not have been complete without also encountering local merchants selling authentic wood carvings like bowls, cutlery, trinkets, totems, masks and more

Image (c): G.Scott-Douglas