Lake Fanteng is a recent landform, created during the catastrophic volcanic eruptions of 1913 which destroyed a mission hospital.

A 220 hectare conservation area covers the brackish water lake and surrounding hills with dry, acacia dominated forests. Bird watching is good in the area with more than 30 species. Vanuatu Scrubfowl are abundant with several communal laying sites in the area. Sea turtles are common.

Chief Jessy Saksak and the Wakon community own the Lake Fanteng Conservation Area. There is a 1000 Vatu conservation fee and a half-day bush walking and canoeing tour costs 1000 Vatu extra. Exchange rates. Visitors to Lake Fanteng can stay at Wakon Sunset Bungalow and camping is permitted.

To contact Jessy telephone 5487330 (mobile) or leave a message at 48547 (Craig Cove Commercial Centre Store) or 48911 (Craig Cove public phone). He's usually at Craig Cove on Tuesdays or Saturdays and can pick you up in his canoe. In 2009 he was in New Zealand and should be back mid-year.

Browse higher resolution pictures on our Vanuatu Protected Areas Showcase.

Last updated: April 2009 by Stephen.