Embark on an adventure to discover the underwater treasures of the Solomon Islands, an unspoiled wonderland in the Coral Triangle.
Overview
From the wonders of the Florida Islands to the flawless perfection of Marovo Lagoon, discover the best snorkeling in the Solomon Islands with Planet Snorkeling! This trip exclusively for snorkelers combines 6 nights on a liveaboard with 4 nights on Uepi Island, home to some of the best, least visited snorkeling spots in the world. This unique itinerary will allow us to visit varied snorkeling locations including shallow coral reefs, lagoons, shipwrecks, reef walls, and Manta cleaning stations.
Trip Highlights
- The Solomon Islands are the easternmost range of the Coral Triangle, one of the most secluded places on the planet. Their reefs are home to countless types of corals and reef fish species, as well as blacktip sharks, sea turtles and mantas.
- In total, this trip includes around 20 snorkeling sessions all over the archipelago, as well as a night snorkeling adventure. Most of visited locations will be flourishing coral reefs and steep walls where reef life thrives.
- Onboard the Bilikiki, fully chartered for our group, we will explore remote snorkeling locations in the Florida Islands, the Russel Islands and Mary Island. All cabins have private bathrooms and showers, with hot water and air conditioning.
- During the resort-based part of the trip, we will be staying at the edge of the Marovo Lagoon, the world’s longest lagoon. We will be the only guests at the Uepi Island Resort, and have exclusive access to the house reef. A manta cleaning station in just 20 feet of water is found near the resort.
Day 1 :
Arrival in Bolzano - Gateway to the Dolomites
Arrive in Bolzano, the charming capital of South Tyrol, and check into your accommodation in this historic city where Italian and Austrian cultures blend perfectly. Take an orientation walk through the medieval old town, visit the famous Ötzi the Iceman museum, and explore local markets featuring regional specialties. Enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Tyrolean cuisine and local wines.
Day 2 :
Alpe di Siusi - Europe's Largest Alpine Plateau
Journey to Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest high-altitude alpine meadow, via scenic cable car from Ortisei. Explore endless rolling grasslands dotted with traditional mountain huts and surrounded by the dramatic Sassolungo and Sciliar mountain groups. Take moderate walks through flower-filled meadows, encounter traditional Alpine farming, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks.
Day 3 :
Val Gardena & Seceda Mountain Experience
Explore the stunning Val Gardena valley and ascend to Seceda mountain via cable car for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Dolomites. Hike along dramatic ridge trails with spectacular vistas of the Odle group and surrounding peaks. Visit traditional Ladin villages, learn about local woodcarving traditions, and experience the unique trilingual culture of this fascinating region.
Day 4 :
Cortina d'Ampezzo - Queen of the Dolomites
Travel to glamorous Cortina d'Ampezzo, surrounded by dramatic Dolomite peaks including Tofana, Cristallo, and Sorapis. Explore this elegant resort town with its Olympic history, boutique shopping, and traditional cafés. Take a cable car to high viewpoints for spectacular mountain panoramas and visit the historic Olympic venues that put Cortina on the international map.
Day 5 :
Tre Cime di Lavaredo - Iconic Dolomite Towers
Experience the crown jewel of the Dolomites with a visit to the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Hike the classic circular trail around these three iconic limestone towers, each rising over 3,000 meters above sea level. Witness the magical Enrosadira phenomenon as the peaks glow pink and gold, and learn about the geological forces that created these magnificent natural monuments.
Day 6 :
Lake Braies & Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park
Discover the pristine beauty of Lake Braies, often called the 'Pearl of the Dolomites,' with its crystal-clear emerald waters perfectly reflecting surrounding mountain peaks. Explore Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park with its diverse Alpine ecosystems, traditional mountain huts, and peaceful hiking trails through ancient forests and alpine meadows rich with wildlife and wildflowers.
Day 7 :
Great Dolomites Road & Passo Pordoi
Journey along the spectacular Great Dolomites Road, one of Europe's most scenic mountain drives, stopping at dramatic mountain passes including Passo Pordoi. Take cable cars to high-altitude viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the entire Dolomite range. Visit traditional mountain refugios and experience the engineering marvel of historic Alpine road construction through this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Day 8 :
Val di Funes & Traditional Mountain Culture
Explore the picturesque Val di Funes valley, famous for its postcard-perfect church with dramatic Odle peaks as backdrop. Visit traditional farms, learn about Alpine agriculture and local crafts, and experience authentic mountain life that has remained unchanged for centuries. Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring the best of South Tyrolean cuisine with local wines and traditional music.
Day 9 :
Departure from Alpine Paradise
After breakfast, take final photos of the magnificent Dolomite landscapes and perhaps enjoy a short morning walk for last glimpses of these magical mountains. Check out and transfer to departure point, carrying unforgettable memories of dramatic limestone spires, pristine alpine meadows, and the unique cultural blend that makes the Dolomites truly special.
Cost
Cost Includes
- 8 nights accommodation in Alpine hotels and mountain lodges
- daily breakfast and 6 dinners
- professional English-speaking mountain guide
- comfortable transportation throughout Dolomites
- all cable car and lift tickets
- entrance fees to museums and attractions
- comprehensive travel insurance
- detailed trail maps and regional guidebooks
- traditional Tyrolean cultural experiences
- welcome and farewell dinners
Cost Excludes
- International flights to/from Italy
- personal travel insurance beyond group coverage
- lunches and drinks not specified
- personal hiking equipment and mountain gear
- tips for guides and service staff
- personal expenses and souvenirs
- optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- single room supplement
- laundry services
- telephone calls and additional cable car rides
What fitness level is required for Dolomites hiking?
This trip is designed for moderate fitness levels with most hikes ranging from 2-5 hours on well-maintained trails. Cable cars provide access to high-altitude starting points, reducing strenuous climbing. All hiking is optional with comfortable transportation to scenic viewpoints. Our experienced guides adapt daily activities to group abilities, ensuring everyone enjoys the Dolomites’ spectacular beauty safely.
What makes the Dolomites different from other Alpine regions?
The Dolomites offer unique limestone formations creating dramatic vertical rock faces and spires unlike typical Alpine granite mountains. The region’s trilingual culture (Italian, German, Ladin) creates fascinating cultural diversity, while South Tyrolean cuisine blends Italian and Austrian influences. The Enrosadira phenomenon, where peaks glow pink at sunrise/sunset, is exclusive to Dolomite limestone formations.
When is the best time to visit the Dolomites?
June through October offers the best weather for hiking and sightseeing. July-August provides warmest temperatures and longest days but also largest crowds. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists and beautiful wildflower displays. October brings autumn colors and clear mountain views, though some high-altitude cable cars may have reduced schedules.
What should I pack for a Dolomites adventure?
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing system, waterproof jacket, warm hat and gloves, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, daypack, and camera. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so preparation for both warm and cool conditions is important. Detailed packing list provided upon booking, with equipment rental options available locally.
Are vegetarian and dietary restrictions accommodated?
Absolutely! South Tyrolean cuisine offers excellent vegetarian options including traditional dishes like knödel (dumplings), local cheeses, and fresh Alpine vegetables. Italian influences ensure pasta and pizza availability. We accommodate all dietary restrictions including vegan, gluten-free, and allergies when notified in advance. Local restaurants are experienced with diverse dietary needs.
