in Gold Ridge, central Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands
Gold Ridge Waterfall and Mining Heritage
Located in the highlands above Honiara, the Gold Ridge area offers scenic waterfalls, tropical forest hiking, and fascinating context around the historic Gold Ridge mine - once one of the Pacific's most productive gold mines. The area is accessible by 4WD from Honiara and the forested ridgelines provide spectacular views on clear days. Combine with swimming in mountain streams fed by the surrounding highland peaks.
Hours: Daylight hours; check road conditions before departing
Best for: adventure seekers, nature lovers, photographers, history enthusiasts
Location
Gold Ridge highlands, 30km south of Honiara (4WD required)
-9.5600, 160.0200 — View on map
Tips
- Hire a 4WD with driver in Honiara - roads deteriorate quickly in wet season
- Carry more water than you think you need for highland hiking
- The mine area has heritage markers explaining the gold rush history
- Local villages along the route welcome respectful visitors
- Stunning views of Guadalcanal coast on clear days from ridge tops