A layover in Kirakira is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Ngorangora Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of IRA:
- Can you legally enter Solomon Islands? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Kirakira
From IRA, the local transport gets you to Kirakira in around 45 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 65 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Kirakira, here are two things worth checking out:
Kirakira Local Market is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Kirakira Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IRA, you can spend time at Airport Waiting Area or try Local Craft Corner. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kirakira: Kirakira Guesthouse Dining and Local ‘Kai Bar’. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Ngorangora Airport Canteen or Refreshment Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Budget for Your Kirakira Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kirakira might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kirakira.
Luggage Storage at IRA
Dedicated luggage storage at IRA may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kirakira’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at IRA should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Solomon Islands and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at IRA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Kirakira genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.