Executive Summary

This report provides an analysis of the International Visitor Survey (IVS) data from July to December 2023 to understand the visitor experience and gain insights into the Solomon Islands tourism industry.

Key findings include:

1. Visitor Profile: The majority of visitors were from Australia (30%), Fiji (13%), and New Zealand (13%). The average age group was 50-59 years old, and the average household income was USD66,899.
2. Visitor Characteristics & Preferences: The top three purposes of visit were business (29%), sports (28%), and holiday (17%). The average length of stay was 8.8 nights, and the most visited islands were Guadalcanal Province (58%) and Central Islands Province (13%).
3. Information & Decision Making: ‘Work colleagues/information from the visitor’s organisation’ were the most influential source of information about the Solomon Islands. The most influential factors in choosing the Solomon Islands as a destination included friendly people, attending events and culture and history.
4. Visitor Spending and Impact: The average prepaid expenditure per person was USD1,933, and the average local spend per person per day was USD210. The estimated return to the economy was 60%.
5. Visitor Satisfaction: Visitors were generally satisfied with their overall experience of the Solomon Islands, with the highest satisfaction ratings for the friendliness of the Solomon Islands people, the Airport arrival/departure experience, and overall level of service.

The report also highlights areas for improvement, including public services and infrastructure, environment, safety and animals. Despite these areas for improvement, the majority of visitors (50%) expressed a willingness to return to the Solomon Islands and would recommend it to others.