Imbu Rano Lodge

Those who visit Imbu Rano Lodge for the first time are usully overwhelmed by the location, the stunning views and the pleasant, spacious accommodation.

When the managers at KFPL teamed up with the scientists studying Kolombangara over many years, the result of the collaboration was bound to be something special.

Imbu Rano is a labour of love. It was designed by KFPL architects and built from solid FSC certified timbers sourced from the KFPL plantation forests on Kolombangara Island. It sits atop a ridge overlooking the Vila River valley and looks directly out and up to the two major peaks of the Kolombangara crater rim - Mt Rano (1698m) and Mt Tepalamenggutu (1708m).

The views from the 18m expansive deck are breathtaking and ever-changing. Look away and back again a few minutes later and it has changed - the mist and clouds created by the high mountains come and go. The morning and evening light offers fabulous colours, a rainbow or sunbeams.  You can regularly watch birds sweeping across the valley or landing on nearby branches.

Imbu Rano Lodge was primarily designed as a base for scientists researching the high altitude forests of Kolombangara but is also ideal for the adventurous trekker or curious sightseer wanting to experience the high-altitude rainforests and wildlife. A list of scientific papers and reference books has been assembled at Imbu Rano Lodge for those wanting to learn more about the ecology of the Island.

Being at 370m altitude, you are well-placed to climb further up a long ridge connecting the crater rim, or dash down to the Vila River and follow it to waterfalls, kustom sites or into the crater centre. A transfer vehicle takes you from your boat at the Ringgi Cove marine base to the doorstep of Imbu Rano. Why walk to get to the best rainforest!

The lodge offers two twin rooms (one with two beds, the other with a double bed), a 10-person bunk room, linen/towels and shared kitchen and amenities. Drinkable tank water, solar-powered lighting, cold sowers and 24-hour security. The self-catering kitchen (no meals are provided) is well equipped with plates, bowls, cooking utensils, and a two-jet gas burner. AC solar power for charging phones and camera etc is available. There is no fridge or camping gear available. Book the whole lodge for added privacy or large groups.

We'd love to hear from guests about your stay at Imbu Rano Lodge, so leave your comments below.

The name for the lodge, Imbu Rano, was selected after a competition amongst those living on the island. ‘Imbu’ means mist or cold in the Roviana language of the region (in the Nduke language of the Kolombangaran people, ‘Ibulu’ is the related word for cold). The lodge looks out over the Vila River valley and across to the high crater rim summit of the 1,698m Mt Rano, one of the highest peaks of Kolombangara Island.

Imbu Rano Lodge is owned and managed by KFPL. KIBCA assists with its promotion and management as part of the KFPL and KIBCA joint management of the 400m conservation area.

Also see: Stap foget lo Ibu Rano

Booking: Tanya Raymond at KFPL on +677 60230 (24 hour service), or use the  online form.