12 Best Things to Do on Tanna

Probably the only reason you know about Tanna in the first place, Mt Yasur is an active bubbling, fiery and rumbling volcano that meets all your childhood dreams of what defines a volcano!

Known as the "Lighthouse of the Pacific" for its nearly continuous Strombolian eruptions, which have been observed, at least in Western history, since Captain Cook in 1774. It reaches 361 m (1,184 ft) high with a 400 m (1,312 ft) wide crater.

Mt Yasur offers one of the world's most accessible active volcano experiences. Visitors can reach the crater rim through several options: an easy-to-moderate hike from the southern gate entrance, a longer hike from Lamakara (John Frum Cargo Cult) Village on its northern flanks, or guided 4WD tours that take you (almost) to the top. For the more adventurous, ashboarding down the side of the volcano is also possible.

Needless to say, there's nothing like the feeling of the raw power of the earth beneath your feet as you approach the crater rim.

This experience is best done before sunrise or before sunset, when you'll witness the mesmerising red glow of lava against the dark sky.

One of nature's other wonders on Tanna is the Giant Banyan Tree on the western side of the island.

This ancient giant measures an incredible 80 metres (262 ft) high and spans over 100 metres (328 ft) wide, larger than a football field, and continues to grow even today.

The tree's sheer scale becomes apparent as you walk through tunnels carved between its hundreds of aerial roots, which drop like natural pillars from the sprawling canopy above. Legend has it that when Captain Cook visited Tanna in 1774, this remarkable tree was already enormous (check out more fun tidbits in our 20 Fun Facts About Vanuatu LINK#TT065).

From the scenic viewpoint, you'll gaze down upon the vast crown before descending steps to explore the base, where dappled sunlight filters through the intricate maze of roots and leaves. Local guides from the village enhance the experience, sharing insights about this living cathedral that has witnessed centuries of island history!

One of the most intriguing aspects of Vanuatu is its kastom villages; communities that follow traditional Ni-Van customs and are refreshingly uninfluenced by modern technology and colonial ideologies. On Tanna, a trip to Yakel Village will likely change some of your own perspectives on life in the South Pacific.

Visitors are welcomed to learn about daily life, from traditional storytelling and dance to craft making and food preparation. It's a rare opportunity to connect with a way of life that's been passed down for generations.

You'll have the chance to participate in dance performances with villagers and see locals in traditional attire like grass skirts and nambas - traditional penis sheaths. The village gained international recognition as the filming location for the acclaimed movie "Tanna", shot here in 2015.

This immersive cultural experience offers an authentic glimpse into one of the world's last stone-age communities, where ancient customs and traditional ways of living continue unchanged.

Tours to Yakel Village are readily available through local operators like Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours, making this authentic cultural experience accessible without breaking the bank.

... And when a village is influenced by Western culture, particularly from World War Two airdrops, you may get the unique output of a "cargo cult", as is the case with Lamakara Village, also known as John Frum Village.

This unique cultural experience offers visitors a glimpse into a spiritual movement that emerged during World War Two, where indigenous peoples developed beliefs centred around the arrival of Western "cargo" as divine gifts.

Explore the village's sacred shrines adorned with American flags and military memorabilia, witnessing how traditional Melanesian beliefs blend with interpretations of Western influence. The movement holds deep cultural significance as a symbol of resistance to colonialism and identity preservation for the people of Tanna.

If you're fortunate enough to visit on 15 February, you'll witness John Frum Day, a vibrant festival featuring traditional dances, songs and parades that transforms the village into a spectacular cultural celebration - learn more in the 10 Biggest Events & Festivals in Vanuatu LINK#TTD022.

A natural attraction that can't help but produce stunning photos, Blue Cave is a stunning cavern accessed from the ocean, yet has a dazzling array of sunbeams piercing through the roof (if the weather plays ball).

The journey to what locals call Lemnap Cave begins with a spectacular boat ride along the dramatic limestone coastline. You'll glide past ancient caves and secluded beaches that feel like they've been untouched for centuries.

Reaching the cave's interior, however, is where the real adventure begins. It requires a short underwater swim of about half a metre. But once you surface in the cave, you'll find yourself in nature's own cathedral.

The grotto stretches 60 m (197 ft) across with a shaft of sunlight that filters through a 5 m (16 ft) opening in the roof above.

The ethereal blue glow that gives the cave its name creates an atmosphere that's simply otherworldly.

Needless to say, you'll need to be comfortable swimming and putting your head underwater for this experience.

The cave is only accessible through organised tours with operators like White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa, Rockwater Resort, Tanna Volcano Transfers & Tours and Blue Cave Tanna Tours & Cafe.

That's right, even in Tanna you can go scuba diving and Volcano Island Divers, the island's exclusive diving operation, which offers recreational dives, as well as certifications.

The great thing about Tanna is that it's volcanic, which means no fresh water runoff clouding up the ocean. What you get is visibility so crystal clear it's almost unreal.

What's more, you'll find yourself swimming through dramatic caves, along towering reef walls and through spectacular swim-throughs that feel like nature's own underwater cathedral.

There's a dizzying array of marine life to admire, like green sea turtles, and if you're lucky, you'll spot the resident dugongs. For those who love getting up close with the smaller stuff, macro photography enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of tiny critters scattered across multiple dive sites.

What we love about this operation, based at White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa, is that it's fully PADI accredited, so whether you're a complete beginner trying the "Discover Scuba Dive" experience or an advanced diver looking to add Night Diver, Underwater Navigation Diver or Search and Recovery Diver to your qualifications, they've got you covered.

The most challenging thing about seeing all the sites on Tanna is that there are no vehicle rentals and no easy way to experience its natural wonders on your own. That's where Tanna Volcano Transfers & Tours come in.

Founded by Charlie, a dedicated teacher from Lautapunga Village, this community-focused operation offers genuine cultural immersion alongside spectacular volcanic adventures.

Their diverse offerings include afternoon and sunrise Mount Yasur volcano tours, the fascinating "Blue Cave & Yakel Tribe Tour", and comprehensive hiking experiences around Mount Yasur and Tanna Island. Multi-day packages (one to three nights) provide seamless transfers, accommodation at Chez Nous Bungalow, all meals, and visits to Mt Yasur, Blue Cave, and the traditional Yakel Tribe Village.

The smorgboard of experiences means you'll get to experience Mt Yasur as part of full-day excursions or afternoon or sunrise tours, while more active travellers will dig the "Hiking around Mount Yasur and Tanna Island" experience.

Swap the fiery Mt Yasur for something more cooling at the Louniel Waterfall.

Standing approximately 20-30 m (66-98 ft) tall, this dramatic cascade provides the perfect opportunity to cool off from the island's heat and humidity in its plunge pool.

The adventure begins with a scenic journey along a rough dirt road, no matter where you are staying, followed by a pleasant 15-minute walk through tropical vegetation to reach the waterfall's base.

Most trips are conveniently organised through local resorts and bungalows LINK#A081, ensuring easy access to this natural wonder.

Many excursions combine the waterfall visit with a trip to the nearby black sand Louniel Beach, creating a perfect half-day adventure.

The paradisical white-sand beaches of Port Resolution would trick you into thinking you are not only a short drive away from a spewing active volcano!

This magnificent bay, framed by towering cliffs, serves as your gateway to some of east Tanna's most spectacular beaches and snorkelling spots. The charming Ireupuow village provides essential amenities with its basic shop, local market and simple restaurant, making it an ideal base for yachties and visitors from land.

A short walk west of Ireupuow brings you to the cliff-top Port Resolution Nipikimanu Yacht Club where it's possible to grab a meal, and you'll reach the protected marine sanctuary at Yewao Point, where calm waters offer exceptional snorkelling opportunities right up to where the coral reef begins.

Another path north of the village unveils a glorious stretch of white sand leading to premium surf breaks, with deep swells rolling along 2.5 km (1.6 mi) of coastline to Yankaren Para.

If you're looking for a place to snorkel in Tanna, the two "Blue Holes" are awesome spots where vibrant corals line a dip in the coral reef.

This natural wonder serves as a fish nursery, where vibrant marine life thrives among stunning coral wall formations that create an underwater gallery of colours and textures.

The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkellers of all skill levels, making it an ideal spot to observe tropical fish in their natural habitat. While the experience is best enjoyed at low tide for optimal water conditions, the site remains easily accessible during high tide, ensuring you can visit throughout the day.

For just VT$500 per person, your visit directly supports the local community. You can pay in cash on-site or conveniently settle your fee at White Grass Ocean Resort.

Another "blue hole" just a little further along the shore, Blue Hole #2 is also worth a reef-walk and a snorkel!

This underwater sanctuary showcases vibrant marine life, but timing is absolutely crucial for the best experience.

Visit during low tide, ideally in the morning when visibility reaches its peak, and the water remains calm. The challenging limestone walk requires proper reef shoes or aqua socks, and be sure to avoid stepping on delicate coral formations.

While the trek to reach this secluded spot can be challenging, the reward of snorkelling in this untouched marine environment makes every careful step worthwhile.

The afternoon and high tide periods significantly reduce visibility due to waves, so planning around optimal conditions is essential.

Again, there may be locals taking small entry fees to access their kastom land.

An affordable foodie and cultural experience, the Lenakel Market is well worth pottering around.

This bustling community hub is where you'll find the island's incredible agricultural bounty, from aromatic fresh herbs and homemade pastries to towering bunches of coconuts and traditional kava root.

What we love most about this market experience is the genuine warmth of the local vendors. They'll greet you with the biggest "big mama" smiles as they share their finest organic produce.

The market offers an unfiltered glimpse into daily Ni-Vanuatu culture. Beyond the fresh produce, you'll discover locally crafted items that make perfect mementoes for your trip to the volcanic heart of Vanuatu.