UP the mountain and through the bush and rainforest of Naki naki region of Central Kwara’ae was the latest expedition of the Fata treks – one of the most recent tourism attractions in Malaita province.
The trek has been established for some years now and was taking in tourists by the owner of Takana Fali eco-lodge but was not packaged and operated formally until one of the province’s young adventurous University graduate stepped in.
Phillip Subu, 26, with the help of his other colleagues Javin Rukia and Moses Bauri finally came up with the idea of packaging the trek for tours just recently.
Lately, Fata trek has taken in an American tourist as the first to have a try on the recently opened expedition and have a look and taste on what the trek has to offer.
The American, David Grahl was the first and has decided to share this brief story, about his journey.
“The views along the way were incredible. We walked through several villages along the way where I observed the daily activities and lives of the mountain villagers. The people were so friendly, wanting to know where I was from. When we were near the top, I received a surprise welcome to the village by the Naki naki people.
“At the top of the mountain, we stopped for a rest at the Takanafali Eco lodge where I had wonderful fresh fruit and coconut water. After the brief rest, we continued hiking down to the nearby Kwaiafa river. Here we hiked along and across the river to the Kwaiafa waterfalls. Eddie the owner of a newly established home stay and resource owner took us for the river trekking.
“The lush vegetation and views were beautiful. After reaching the waterfalls, there was time for relaxing or swimming. Then it was back to the eco lodge for a wonderful lunch of chicken and fresh fruits and vegetables.
“After lunch I was taken by Clement Lee – one of the key tribal leaders and owner of Takana Fali Home stay on Naki Naki mountain around the area to see the sacred sites of the Naki naki people – skull worshippers.
“Here customs, culture, and the history of the sites were explained to me. This was very interesting. Then it was back down the mountain to where we began our hike. This was a wonderful full day hike. All along the way, Phillip was explaining and telling me about the people, their culture, customs, and answering all my questions.
“I learned and experienced so much on this hike. Phillip was always concerned about my safety, well-being, and ensuring I had the best experience possible. The hike was one of the highlights of my trip to the Solomon Islands. I would definitely recommend to anyone hiking with Fata Treks,” Mr Grahl shared his experience at the trek.
The Fata treks package or Itineraries includes a – 2 days tour through Oliana’ia Trek, 2 days tour at the Gwalu Gwalu manu cave, and a further 3 to 4 days tour along the Naki naki Cross-highlands Hike from central to east Kwara’ae.
For more information concerning the Treks, check out their facebook page www.facebook.com/Fata-Treks.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
