The Western Pacific Ocean is dotted with numerous archipelagos including those of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

It may be surprising for some that rugged volcanic islands dominate these countries. Mossy montane forests dominate the higher altitudes with humid tropical forest in the lowlands. Of course these scenic surroundings wouldn’t be complete without palm-fringed sandy beaches and superb coral reefs offshore.

During a long period of isolation these archipelagoes have evolved a highly endemic avifauna of many colourful and interesting birds including an endemic family, represented by the Kagu.

We will be delighted by the diversity of species, ranging from the soaring Solomon’s Sea-Eagle to the tiny Pygmy-Parrots. Coastal waters support a good variety of seabirds including the rare Heinroth’s Shearwater.

In addition to the excellent food we will encounter on these “French-speaking” tropical islands we will witness an abundance of exquisite bird life. A few of the endemic species we hope to see are the extremely attractive Cloven-Feathered Dove, the rainforest dwelling New Caledonia Goshawk, the lowland to highland ranging New Caledonia Cuckoo-Shrike, the very long-tailed Horned Parakeet and that inhabitant of grassy clearings, the Red-throated Parrotfinch.

We have created an excellent itinerary that will provide us the opportunity to see as many of the endemic species as possible in the amount of time we have allowed. For a detailed itinerary, bird list and more information please contact us.