The unique cultural and geographical environment of Uepi Island enables varied and interesting leisure activities.
JUNGLE TRAILS
The Island itself is covered in rainforest right down to the high water mark. There is a system of well-prepared and mapped out walking trails which are signposted at strategic points.
SNORKELING
Fringing reef, steep drop-offs, lagoonal coral bommies ..... all teeming with colorful tropical fish and invertebrate life. Plenty of sites for snorkelers of varying ability.
SWIMMING
A very safe sandy beach is only meters away from the bungalow accommodation. Situated on the inner lagoon it is ideal for young children and for energetic adults.
CANOE PADDLING
Paddle your own canoe! These are the real thing, local dugout canoes. Watch the local people use tide and wind to travel long distances over the lagoon with incredible skill and economy. Paddle boards and sailboards are also available for use.
BEACH PICNICS
The picturesque Landoro and Ko Pi Tu Pi beaches are a must to relax on. Enjoy a picnic lunch. Take your snorkeling gear too. We warn you, it's very, very romantic. LIBRARY An extensive library comprising local interests, marine and terrestrial natural history, periodicals, fiction and board games.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Marovo Lagoon and Uepi are a photographers delight. A camera is a must. Subjects abound ... hand feeding the coral fish, tropical sunsets, palm trees and white beaches, tropical rainforests.
FISHING
The Marovan waters teem with fish life. Motorized canoes are used to fish from and conventional tackle for trolling and reef fishing are available. Should you be an ultra keen fisherman then it is advisable to bring some personal gear. Check out the open waters for signs of feeding birds and Yellow-Fin Tuna, try for a Mackerel or Barracuda along the drop-offs and passages, pick up a Red Emperor or Coral Trout on the reefs. For those who wish to casually fish, evening trips of about an hour's duration with equipment supplied are available.
COCONUT CRAB WALKS
The baits are set ... a short canoe trip at night and into the jungle by torchlight to see a threatened species. You will be intrigued by these large and spectacular creatures.
DIVING
Uepi has an established reputation for world class diving. All dive sites along the Uepi Island passage, barrier reef drop-offs and bays are intensive coral reef ecosystems. The diving is extraordinarily varied with many and differing reef structures and bioassemblages.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Without a doubt one of the reasons for traveling to other countries is to experience the culture of the indigenous occupants. In this regard Uepi considers itself privileged to be able to offer trips to local villages. The Marovo people still predominantly rely on traditional housing, food sources, traveling, as well as a family and communal organization. This experience is offered to you by way of river trips, carving village tours and custom dancing.
RIVER TRIPS
Glide across the lagoon waters and then enjoy the dense tropical rainforest as you meander up the river to the crystal clear coolness of the swimming holes in one of the several New Georgia Rivers. Visit an adjacent village as you return. CARVING
VILLAGE TOURS
The carvers of the Marovo are renowned for their quality carvings. Most carvings are of custom subjects or reflect the natural history of the area. Examples are simple or exotic `spirit' wildlife carvings, traditional `Nuzu-Nuzu' war or peace sculptures. Materials include kerosene wood, shell-inlay, black coral, queen ebony and king ebony. By visiting the carvers at their villages you see them working in their environment. Some wonderful and unique purchases may be made.
CUSTOM DANCING
Enjoy the hospitality of the Chumbikopi people and be entertained by these natural artists. Pacific Island voices, children's songs, war dances. An excellent opportunity to learn first hand about life in Marovo society as you are shown the village. |