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The Autonomous Region of Bougainville sits in the easternmost part of Papua New Guinea, made up of Bougainville Island, Buka Island, and dozens of smaller islands and atolls. Known for its volcanic peaks, rainforest-covered ranges, coral reefs, and strong cultural identity, the region offers a mix of nature, history, and community-hosted travel experiences.
Bougainville’s history runs deep, shaped by ancient traditions, matrilineal customs, and the events of World War II. Many communities continue to share their stories through local projects, village visits, and cultural performances that give travellers genuine insight into daily life across the islands.
Buka serves as the main entry point for visitors, acting as the region’s transport hub with accommodation, markets, and access to nearby islands. From here, travellers can continue south across the Buka Passage to Bougainville Island, where coastal villages, diving spots, mountain landscapes, and historic sites wait to be explored.
Whether you’re drawn to reef-fringed coastlines, meaningful cultural experiences, or off-the-beaten-path adventure, Bougainville offers a welcoming and varied journey through one of PNG’s most distinctive island regions.
Bougainville sits between the Solomon Sea and the Pacific Ocean at the eastern edge of Papua New Guinea. It forms part of the wider Solomon Islands archipelago, giving the region a distinctive cultural and environmental character.
Bougainville holds autonomous status within Papua New Guinea.
Buka is the main entry point for travellers visiting the Region of Bougainville. The town sits on the northern island beside the Buka Passage, a key channel linking Buka Island and Bougainville Island.
Buka Airport
Domestic flights arrive in Buka from Port Moresby three times a week. Flights are scheduled for Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with the aircraft returning the same days.
The Buka Passage
The Buka Passage is central to daily life.
Bougainville offers a rare mix of island landscapes, cultural experiences and community-led travel. Whether you’re interested in coastal stays, diving, trekking or village visits, planning your route early will help you make the most of your time in the region.
Use our regional map below to explore key destinations across Bougainville and start shaping your itinerary.
If you’d like help understanding what’s possible or need guidance on planning your trip, contact PNG Travel for advice and up-to-date travel information or visit ABG’s official tourism website for more.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority
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