Tanna Travel Guide

Get ready to embark on an adventure to Tanna, Vanuatu! Explore its amazing natural wonders, immerse yourself in local culture, and taste the region's traditional dishes. Check out our comprehensive travel guide below.


Discover Tanna: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Tucked away in Vanuatu’s southernmost province, Tafea, lies the stunning island of Tanna. This beautiful island is perhaps one of the most charming and authentic in the archipelago, offering visitors an unspoiled look into traditional Melanesian culture, natural beauty, and a wide array of activities and experiences. From rugged mountains to black-sand beaches, from traditional villages to volcanic craters, Tanna boasts a multitude of attractions that make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you what to do, see, eat, and experience while visiting Tanna.

List of Places to Visit in Tanna

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Tanna Cultural Centre

The Tanna Cultural Centre offers visitors a chance to learn about the rich heritage and customs of the island’s local people. The center showcases traditional Tannese artifacts, tools, and art, as well as offering cultural performances and dances.

  1. Port Resolution

Port Resolution is a small village with significant historical and cultural importance to the island of Tanna. The village’s natural harbor has been a site of trade and migration for centuries, and it is also believed to be the landing site of the first European explorers to Vanuatu.

Natural Attractions of Tanna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Yasur

The active volcano of Mount Yasur is perhaps Tanna’s most famous and distinctive attraction. Visitors can climb to the rim and witness awe-inspiring displays of molten magma and fiery explosions.

  1. Lenakel Hot Springs

Lenakel Hot Springs is a natural oasis in the heart of the island. The warm water is rich in sulfur, giving it therapeutic properties that are believed to cure various ailments.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tanna

  1. Black Magic Mountain Trail

The Black Magic Mountain Trail is a challenging, but rewarding hiking and biking route that takes participants through the island’s rugged interior. Along the way, visitors will witness stunning natural features such as waterfalls and dense jungle.

  1. Coastal Trail

For those looking for a more leisurely pace, the Coastal Trail offers an easy route that weaves along the island’s eastern shores. The 7km trail offers breathtaking views of the ocean and coast, as well as access to some of Tanna’s less-frequented beaches.

Best Things to Do in Tanna: Activities and Tours

  1. Traditional Village Visits

Tanna has a rich and vibrant cultural tradition, and visitors can experience it firsthand by visiting one of the several traditional villages scattered throughout the island. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness local dances, music, and traditional customs.

  1. Snorkeling and Diving

Tanna’s pristine waters are home to a wide array of marine life, making snorkeling and diving one of the best ways to experience the island’s underwater wonders. Visitors can pick from a range of tours or merely find a secluded spot on their own.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tanna

Day Activity
1 Arrival and settling in
2 Hike up Mount Yasur
3 Explore Port Resolution and nearby beaches
4 Visit the Tanna Cultural Center
5 Snorkeling and beach time
6 Lenakel Hot Springs
7 Traditional village visit and farewell dinner

Food and Drink Scene of Tanna

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Laplap

Laplap is one of the most famous dishes in Vanuatu, and Tanna’s variation is a must-try. It consists of grated taro root, yam, or manioc mixed with coconut milk, and meat or fish cooked inside a banana or taro leaf.

  1. Kava

Kava is a traditional drink made from the roots of the kava plant, which is said to have a calming and relaxing effect on the drinker. Kava is a vital part of Tannese cultural heritage and is often shared during formal ceremonies and events.

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

  1. Tanna Lodge

Tanna Lodge is a beautiful and rustic lodging option situated on Tanna’s rugged southern coast. The lodge features well-appointed rooms, delicious food, and stunning views of the ocean and nearby Shark Bay.

  1. White Grass Ocean Resort

White Grass Ocean Resort is another great option for visitors, offering luxury comfort and direct access to some of Tanna’s most beautiful beaches.

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

  1. Handicrafts

Tanna’s local people are known for their exquisite handicrafts, including intricately woven baskets, mats, and hats made from natural materials such as pandanus and coconut fibers.

  1. Kava

Visitors can purchase authentic Tannese kava made from local farmers and growers to enjoy at home or give as a gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Tanna

Tannese people are proud of their traditions and customs, which are strongly connected to their unique cultural identity. Visitors to the island should respect local customs such as dressing modestly and seeking permission before entering ancestral lands.

Best Time to Visit Tanna

The best time to visit Tanna is from April to October, during the drier season when temperatures are moderate and the skies are clear. However, even during the rainy season, Tanna’s stunning landscapes never fail to amaze.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tanna

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take part in local ceremonies and events
  • Try traditional Tannese dishes

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public
  • Enter ancestral lands without permission
  • Take photographs of people without their consent

Safety and Health

Safety in Tanna

Tanna is a safe destination for travelers; however, visitors should take standard precautions such as safeguarding valuables and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Tanna

Visitors should consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic before visiting Tanna to receive any necessary vaccinations or medications. Visitors should also be mindful of the tropical temperatures and take measures to stay hydrated and avoid sunburn.

Getting to Tanna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tanna

Tanna has a small airport, Whitegrass Airport, which offers regular flights from Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital city.

Bus Stations Near Tanna

There are no bus stations on Tanna, but visitors can rent a car or hire a driver to explore the island.

Other Options

Tanna is also accessible via boat or ferry, but these options are less frequent and reliable than air travel.

How to Get Around in Tanna

Visitors can rent a car or hire a driver to explore the island, but for those on a budget, public transportation can be arranged through the island’s guesthouses.

Where to Go Next from Tanna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Port Vila

Port Vila is Vanuatu’s capital city and the largest on the archipelago. Visitors can explore Port Vila’s bustling markets, sample the island’s delicious cuisine, and learn about the nation’s unique history and traditions.

  1. Efate

Efate is another island in Vanuatu, known for its stunning beaches, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Tanna is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and authentic islands in Vanuatu, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Tannese culture and unmatched natural beauty. From Mount Yasur’s fiery displays to Lenakel’s soothing hot springs to the soft sandy beaches, Tanna offers something for everyone. No matter what you choose to do, we hope you have a fantastic time exploring this remarkable island.

Coastline on Tanna Island Coastline on Tanna Island Mount Yasur in eastern Tanna Mount Yasur in eastern Tanna


    Aneityum
    Ireupuow
    White Sands