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• Bikeli to Akrema

Bikeli to Akrema

• Start: Bikeli hot water springs
• Finish: Akrema Beach
• Distance: 5.5 km/3.4 mi (one way)
• Walking Time: 2 hours (low tide), add half hour if high tide.
• Difficulty: Easy at low tide, except for a few slippery rocky sections and very short climb up onto headland. High tide is more difficult due to having to climb up above the beach and wade through water at times.
• Highlights: This is an easy day hike for an afternoon exploring the northeast coast of the island. You can hire a driver to take you to the start of the trail in Bikelli, find a local truck headed north, or walk from Beloi. Wind your way along rocky paths and smooth sand beaches—and enjoy the view of a few motorbikes attempting the journey—towards the famous white sand of Akrema. Stop in Uaroana, halfway between Bikeli and Akrema, for a fresh coconut, and have another once you reach Akrema beach. You can swim in the clear waters, explore the village or the Cave of the Dead, and even camp overnight for $5.
• Trail Description: From Bikeli hot water springs, start walking northwards on the rocks; hug the coastline directly along the water's edge to veer around cliff on beach and continue on path towards Uaroana (well-marked). Be sure not to go on the path from Bikeli beach that veers left and upwards; this path will take you to Iliana/Doro on the other side of the island (a hike worth doing another day!) You will reach Uaroana after one hour, once you’ve walked by mangrove forests and hot springs. Continue walking past village gardens and through Uaroana village which has a lovely tree-shaded road through the middle. At the north end of the village, return to the beach, pass a few small cliffs and then walk over a headland with fantastic ocean views. Continue walking and straight after the shipwreck on the beach, climb up a steep rocky outcrop (clockwise spiral) and then walk along the top of a small cliff before descending again to the beach. From here, follow the coastal track to Akrema--you will soon see the beautiful sand beach in the distance.
• Equipment: Sports sandals/good walking shoes; walking pole useful (few short sections rocky). Water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• Guide: Recommended – will see and learn much more (e.g. locating hot water springs, finding out about village, life etc). One small, tricky rock section getting up onto escarpment (track not obvious) and will need assistance finding high tide routes if needed.
• Variants: You could begin the hike from Beloi (an additional 1-1.5 hours) but this is not recommended as despite excellent coastal views, the road can be very hot and dusty. 4WD vehicle drop-off at Bikeli hot water springs (15 min drive from Beloi) and boat pick-up at Akrema (or vice versa) – note: it can be difficult getting into Akrema at low tide. All transport must be pre-arranged.
• Map Link: