06/08/2025
Kokopau is a town on the northern tip of Bougainville, the main island of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea. It is a key entry point to the island, as it sits directly across the narrow Buka Passage from Buka Town, the capital of the region.
Location and Significance
π Gateway to Bougainville: Kokopau is the arrival point on the main island for most visitors traveling from Buka Town. The Buka Passage, a narrow strait separating Buka Island from the rest of Bougainville, is a central feature of the area.
π Connecting point: From Kokopau, travelers can take a vehicle to journey south through picturesque coastal villages, including Tinputz.
Things to Do Nearby
While Kokopau itself is a small town, its location makes it a base for exploring the diverse attractions of northern and central Bougainville.
π The Buka Passage: Take a boat ride through the narrow channel to experience small islands and uninhabited atolls. The passage is also home to World War II shipwrecks, with some Japanese fighter planes visible just a few meters below the surface, making for an excellent snorkeling experience.
π Sohano Island: Located within the Buka Passage, Sohano Island has visitor facilities, a Japanese war memorial, and a plane wreck. Local legend attributes magical properties to the Tchibo Rock on the island's northern tip.
π World War II Relics: Bougainville was a major battleground during World War II, and relics can be found throughout the region.
π Trekking and Nature: Bougainville offers trekking opportunities through its rugged, jungled terrain. Notable treks include those to Mount Balbi and Mount Bagana, active volcanoes with craters and lakes.
π Cultural Experiences: Bougainville has a rich and ancient culture, with a unique matrilineal clan system. Visitors can experience local customs, traditional crafts, and agricultural practices through village stays and by attending festivals like the "Mona" festival, which celebrates traditional war canoes.
