Rabaul: WWII Bunkers, Volcano & Hot Springs Half-Day Tour

Summary

Rabaul ruins, volcano steam and wartime tunnels in one trip

You’ll trace Rabaul’s past from WWII bunkers to volcanic landscapes, feeling steam rise at hot springs and seeing town ruins swallowed by ash. With a local guide sharing stories along every stop—and even a taste of fresh fruit at the market—you’ll experience both history and daily life up close.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell — kind of sharp and earthy, almost like burnt matches. We’d just stepped out near the old Rabaul airport, where you can still see bits of tarmac poking through ash. Our guide, Joseph, pointed at a line of battered coconut trees and told us about the last eruption. I tried to picture planes landing here once; it’s hard when everything feels so quiet now except for our footsteps crunching on gravel.

I didn’t expect to get goosebumps inside Yamamoto’s bunker. There’s graffiti on the walls (some from soldiers, some just recent scribbles), and Joseph explained how officers would hide out here during air raids. It felt damp and cool compared to outside — you could almost hear echoes if you stood still. My partner tried to snap a photo but his lens fogged up from the humidity. We laughed about it but honestly, I felt a bit weird taking pictures in there.

Later we drove towards Mt Tavurvur. The road got bumpier and suddenly there was this blast of heat — sulfur steam rising right next to us at the hot springs. Locals were selling eggs to boil in the water (I didn’t try one but maybe next time). The volcano itself looked close enough to touch, with smoke drifting lazily upwards. You could hear distant market sounds too — kids shouting, someone bargaining over betel nut — until we reached the lookout at Rabaul Volcano Observatory. The view stretched out over Matupit Island and what used to be old Rabaul town; I just stood there for a while without saying much.

We ended up at the market (it’s closed Sundays) where Joseph bought us some tiny sweet bananas. I’m not sure why that sticks with me more than anything else — maybe because everyone smiled when we said thank you in Tok Pisin (or tried to). The whole day felt like stepping through layers of history and ash, with moments that surprised me more than I thought they would.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Rabaul ruins and volcano

• Visit Old Rabaul town
• See Old Rabaul Airport
• Explore Yamamoto Bunker and Historical Club
• Visit Hot Springs and Mt Tavurvur Volcano
• View from Rabaul Volcano Observatory Lookout
• Stop at Rabaul Market (if not Sunday)

Top questions

How long is the Rabaul Highlights Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Does the tour include visiting WWII sites?

Yes, you’ll visit Yamamoto Bunker and learn about wartime history.

Are hot springs included on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll stop at the hot springs near Mt Tavurvur volcano.

Is transport provided during the tour?

Transport is included throughout the tour route.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide leads the tour.

Can infants join this Rabaul day trip?

Infants can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Bottled water is included for all guests.

Does this tour run on Sundays?

The tour runs on Sundays but note that Rabaul Market is closed then.

What’s included

Your half-day includes comfortable transport around Rabaul’s main sites, entry fees for places like Yamamoto Bunker and hot springs, bottled water to keep you going in the heat, plus stories from an English-speaking local guide who really knows their stuff—so you don’t have to worry about logistics or missing any highlights along the way.