Tanna Island is a beautiful island in the Vanuatu archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. Visit to see its active volcano or snorkel along the coral reef surrounding the island.
Look toward the southeastern side of Tanna Island after dusk to see bright red flares of projectile magma and fiery gases rising from Mount YasurOpens in a new window. This active volcano has Strombolian eruptions, meaning that the volcano has frequent small to medium eruptions. When visits are deemed safe, hire a guide to drive near the peak and hike for 15 minutes to reach the rim. Relax at Sulphur Bay in the hot springs warmed by the volcano.
Join a guided tour to Yekel and other local villages to experience the culture of Tanna Island, which is largely unaffected by Western influences.
American influence is limited but lasting, continuing long after the presence of soldiers on the islands during World War II. Some local residents are part of the John Frum cargo cult, with the belief that Americans will one day return, bringing wealth in the form of valuable cargo. Observe their Friday evening ceremonies. Visit for John Frum Day’s parade, prayers and other festivities in February.
Wear reef shoes to walk out from the shoreline for snorkeling in rock pools and blue holes filled with colorful marine animals and coral. Take a boat to Lemnap underwater cave to snorkel in a 200-foot-wide (60-meter) grotto. Dive near the 1916 wreck of the Fijian in 65 feet (20 meters) of water.
Try sport fishing for marlin, wahoo and barracuda and have your fish prepared for your dinner. Try kava, a relaxing herbal drink.
Fly to Bauerfield International Airport near Port VilaOpens in a new window on Vanuatu’s main island and then catch a 45-minute flight to Tanna Island. Walk, mountain bike or ride on horseback to enjoy the relaxation of the island’s beaches and the excitement of its volcano.
