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Vanuatu Islands

The so-called “Land Eternal” or Vanuatu stretches at the east end of the Melanesian string; this is also previously known to be New Hebrides Islands consists of 83 islands in the north of New Zealand, southwest Pacific Ocean, and east of Australia. Weather conditions mostly comprise of hot to moderate or rainy climate.

Vanuatu is divided into six geographic provinces; namely:

  • Torba (Torres islands, Banks islands)
  • Sanma (Santo, Malo)
  • Penama (Pentecost, Ambae, Maewo)
  • Malampa (Malakula, Ambrym, Paama)
  • Shefa (Shepherd group, Etafe)
  • Tafea (Tanna, Aniwa, Futuna, Erromango, Aneityum)

AMBRYM ISLAND

This is an island where spirituality and traditions lurk strongly; evident in the locales belief in sorcery and black magic, in which the island is very famed for. In contrast though, the people here are very warm and hospitable which accounts to why travelers frequent this island paradise. The island also is a home to astounding wildlife; which includes the Vanuatu Megapode, turtles, and dugongs. This is also a perfect spot for adventurers who love snorkeling; as north Ambrym has a majestic natural spring that will keep you in awe.

ANEITYUM ISLAND


Coined as the “Mystery Island”, this is said to have the most pleasant climate which makes it very easy for tropical fruits and vegetables to flourish; and more so, has the most captivating mountain scenery cascaded by waterfalls. Further, this is in fact the most southern inhabited island in the whole Vanuatu archipelago. The island is very ideal for diving with its accessible reefs and hot springs tender a calming soak at the end of a tedious day.

BANKS AND TORRES ISLANDS

The Islands consist of two major isles; namely, Vanua Lava, and Mota Lava and Ra. The island majestically stretches from north to west, and towards the Solomon Islands. Sola is its provincial town. Vanua Lava, which is the largest island of Bank and Torres, cradles volcanoes and mountains; and a flourishing wildlife and panoramic views of rivers, waterfalls, and rainforests. Pristine white sand beaches and coral reefs line the whole island; making up a wonderful scenery.

ESPIRITU SANTO ISLANDS


The island is ideal for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure spree for those who want to experience a different flavor of outdoor explorations. This is so far the largest island in Vanuatu; and is a proud destination to beach bums who want to do skinny dipping or just relax and laze in the white sand beaches; go diving or snorkeling; exploring caves; kayaking, or just admiring the mystical virgin rainforest and the breathtaking sceneries.

ETAFE ISLAND – PORT VILA

Indulge in a thrilling escape to the tropical islands of Epi. Few roads exist in these islands which makes their cultural heritage intact and their lifestyle, simple and uncomplicated. Be amazed with its magnificent white sandy and black sand beaches, and inshore coral reefs. One cannot help but be astounded by the lush green rainforest and lakes where you can enjoy trekking or fishing; you may also encounter wildlife at its finest; such as pigs, birds, and others. There are several small lakes where you can fish and frolic in the water and may get a chance to see wild animals, such as birds, pigs and so much more.

EPI ISLAND


Epi is a tranquil tropical isle with wonderful white sandy coves, many white and some black sand beaches, and inshore reefs. The interior is the rugged landscape of recently volcanic activity covered with lush green rainforest. There are several small lakes where you can fish and frolic in the water and may get a chance to see wild animals, such as birds, pigs and so much more. The coastal region is very fertile and covered with coconut farms. The people live scattered around the coast. Few roads exist. There are two airstrips on the western coast, one at Valesdir to the south and the other at Lamen Bay, to the north.

ERROMANGO ISLAND

This island had a previously bad reputation for being a somewhat dangerous destination for 19th Century Presbyterian missionaries; precisely the reason why it was then called the “Martyrs’ Island. On a lighter note, it developed a profitable reputation by Sandalwood traders. There are ongoing plans and projects to build a Forestry tourist lodge so as to further enhance and cultivate the area with its kauri forests deemed to be nearing extinction and the last standing in the world.

MALAKULA ISLAND


Malakula is famed for its great cultural heritage; evident in their well-renowned custom traditional dances; as well as their linguistic capacity of having over thirty languages. Be amazed with its rugged mountain slopes and lush forests which is perfect for trekking; hiking; and bird-watching. What makes this island attractive to tourists is the warmth and hospitality of the locales; and how they passionately share their culture and lifestyle with tourists who frequent the island.

PENTECOST & MAEWO ISLAND

Maewo is a rugged stretch of narrow islands enveloped by creeks and rivers. The Pentecost Island has gained its popularity globally because of Nagol, a land-diving ritual which is held every Saturday between April and June. This ceremony is said to be exalting to watch; what with the fleeting experience of feeling the grounds vibrate as the locales dance and stomp their feet in merriment; and the thrill that one feels while waiting for the diver to leap in one piece to the ground.

TANNA ISLAND

Explorations of all sorts can be done in the isle of Tanna; which is famed as home to one of Vanuatu’s highly-acclaimed tourist spots, the scorching Mount Yasur. There are lots of outdoor activities that can be done at Tanna Island; such as snorkeling, swimming and fishing in underwater caves, admire picturesque view of virgin rainforests and waterfalls; feel the excitement as will horses run unbridled; and a lot more to savor in this culture-rich island.

EPI, ANEITYUM, ERROMANGO

This is an island thriving on a rich agricultural heritage; with its vast coconut plantations, and a variety of crops such as kava and peanuts; and the boom of copra in the early 20th century. Epi is favorably close to Etafe and the travel rates are way affordable. Tourists and locales alike frequent the island and stay for a few days and then return to Port Vila; it is also exciting to go island hopping and experience nature at its best and untouched state.