Penama Travel Guide

Discover what Penama has to offer with our informative, SEO optimized travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, hiking routes to culinary experiences – we've got you covered.


Introduction to Penama

Penama is one of the six provinces of Vanuatu, located in the northern region of the archipelago. The province is formed by the islands of Ambae, Maéwo, Merig, and Pentecost. Known for its traditional way of life, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural heritage, Penama is a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.

List of Places to Visit in Penama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vanuatu Cultural Centre

Located in Port Vila, the Vanuatu Cultural Centre is an institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the island’s cultural heritage. The center has an extensive collection of artifacts, tools, and traditional costumes, as well as a library, archives, and exhibition spaces.

Big Nambas and Small Nambas Villages

Penama is home to two of the most well-known and well-preserved traditional villages in Vanuatu: the Big Nambas and Small Nambas villages. The villages are located on the island of Malakula and offer a unique insight into the island’s cultural traditions, including art, music, and ceremonies.

Natural Attractions of Penama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Yasur

Mount Yasur is an active volcano located on the island of Tanna. The volcano’s eruptions are minor, making it safe to visit, and the views from the summit are truly breathtaking. Many tour operators offer guided hikes to the top of the volcano.

Blue Lagoon

Located on the island of Efate, the Blue Lagoon is a beautiful, natural swimming hole surrounded by lush vegetation. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Penama

Mount Tabwemasana

Mount Tabwemasana is the highest peak in Vanuatu, standing at 1,877 meters above sea level. The mountain is located on the island of Espiritu Santo and offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking opportunities in the archipelago.

Loru Conservation Area

Located on the island of Maéwo, the Loru Conservation Area is a protected forest with more than 200 different species of trees, as well as a variety of bird and animal life. The area has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the forest and its many natural wonders.

Best Things to Do in Penama: Activities and Tours

Nagol Land Diving

The land diving ceremony, also known as Nagol, is a traditional ritual that takes place on the island of Pentecost. During the ceremony, young men leap from a tall wooden tower, with only vines tied to their ankles to break their fall. The ceremony is held annually between April and June and is a must-see for visitors to the island.

Snorkeling and Diving

Vanuatu has some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites in the world. The waters surrounding the archipelago are home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and even sharks. Some of the best diving spots can be found off the coast of Espiritu Santo and Tanna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Penama

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Port Vila and explore the city
2 Visit the Vanuatu Cultural Centre and the Big Nambas and Small Nambas villages on Malakula
3 Take a hike to Mount Yasur on Tanna
4 Snorkel or scuba dive off Espiritu Santo
5 Explore the Loru Conservation Area on Maéwo
6 Attend a land diving ceremony on Pentecost
7 Relax on the beach or take a leisurely bike ride around the islands

Food and Drink Scene of Penama

Must-Try Dishes

Lap Lap

Lap lap is a traditional dish made from grated yams, taro, or cassava, and coconut milk. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over hot stones in an earth oven.

Coconut Crab

The coconut crab is a local delicacy that can be found on many menus throughout Vanuatu. The crab is cooked and served with a range of spices and seasonings, making for a delicious and unique culinary experience.

Local Beverages

Kava

Kava is a traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant. The drink is known for its relaxing properties and is a popular social and ceremonial beverage throughout Vanuatu.

Tusker Beer

Tusker Beer is a locally brewed beer that is popular with locals and visitors alike. The beer has a refreshing taste and is the perfect way to cool off after a day of sightseeing.

Where to Stay in Penama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tanna Lodge

Located on the island of Tanna, the Tanna Lodge offers comfortable accommodation with stunning views of Mount Yasur. The lodge has a range of room options to suit different budgets and is a great base from which to explore the island.

Hotel Santo

Hotel Santo is located on the island of Espiritu Santo and offers a range of accommodation options, including family rooms and self-contained apartments. The hotel has a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, and is conveniently located close to many of the island’s top attractions.

What to Buy in Penama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hand-Crafted Pottery

Vanuatu is famous for its traditional pottery, which is made using ancient techniques passed down through generations. The pottery is often decorated with intricate designs and patterns and can be found for sale in markets and shops throughout the archipelago.

Local Coffee

Vanuatu produces some of the world’s best coffee, thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and favorable climate conditions. Coffee beans are roasted on the islands and can be bought in markets and gift shops throughout Penama.

Local Culture and Customs of Penama

Penama is home to a diverse range of cultural traditions, including music, dance, and art. The island’s people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Penama

The best time to visit Penama is from April to October, during the dry season. The weather during this time of year is warm and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and low humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Penama

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Learn a few phrases in Bislama, the local language.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Touch or sit on traditional artifacts or objects.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Penama

Penama is a relatively safe place to visit, with low levels of crime and violence. Visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying large sums of money or valuables.

Health in Penama

Visitors to Penama should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and malaria. It is also important to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.

Getting to Penama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Penama

Most visitors to Penama arrive at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, on the island of Efate. From there, you can take a domestic flight to one of the airports on the islands of Ambae, Maéwo, Merig, or Pentecost.

Bus Stations Near Penama

There are no bus stations in Penama, but local buses and taxis are available on all the islands. It is also possible to rent a car or scooter to explore the islands.

Other Options

A range of tour operators and boat charters offer guided tours and transport between the islands of Penama.

How to Get Around in Penama

The best way to get around Penama is by boat or by foot. Taxis and local buses are available, but they can be unreliable and infrequent.

Where to Go Next from Penama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Island of Efate

The island of Efate is home to the capital city of Port Vila and offers a range of attractions, including the Mele Cascades waterfall, the Blue Lagoon, and the Port Vila market.

Island of Espiritu Santo

The island of Espiritu Santo is another popular destination in Vanuatu and is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and World War II history.

Conclusion

Penama is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to experience traditional island life, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. With so much to see and do, it is easy to see why Penama is such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

Land diving Land diving