Polibetakevar Guesthouse, Ambrym Visitor Ratings

Polibetakevar is a small inland village on west Ambrym. They have a simple community guest house, built in 2005, and hope to attract some tourists. It's a friendly place where you can experience village life and make friends without feeling like a tourist. It's basic but certainly genuine and unique.

Activities around Polibetakevar are not organised, just ask. There's good bush walking in the hills and Polibetakevar is one of the best places in west Ambrym to witness traditional culture.

Costs and Booking
Polibetakevar Guesthouse is good value for money at 1500 Vatu per person, per night including meals. Local tours are informal and prices are not set. Volcano tours are arranged through Meltungon village (see our Walking Ambrym page for details). All expenses are payable in Vatu cash. Exchange rates.

Ambrym now has mobile phones and you can telephone Polibetakevar. The key person to call is Terry Bong (5432109) and you can also try Bae Titus (5422562) or Elder Wary (5496767). People at Polibetakevar speak Bislama and English, some speak French.

Accommodation and Food
Polibetakevar's bungalow is a simple dormitory style house built in the local style. It has three single beds inside and room for more. Minimal bedding is provided. It's a good idea to bring a light blanket or sleeping bag and maybe a mosquito net as well. The door is lockable with a small padlock. Candles are used for lighting.

The guesthouse has one basic pit toilet and one haos blong swim (bucket showers). Bring your own bath towel, soap and toilet paper. Water comes from rainwater tanks and is restricted during the dry season. Please conserve!

Basic aelan kaekae meals are available at Polibetakevar; mostly vegetables like kumala, taro, manioc, corn, lap-lap, aelan kabis and beans. Megapode (Vanuatu Scrubfowl) eggs should be available except during the closed season. Sometimes you can get fresh bread, baked in a saucepan, with coconut jam for breakfast. Bring your own tea and coffee.

Services and Suggestions
Polibetakevar has one small store, others are at Baiap and Craig Cove. Plan ahead and bring your supplies with you.

First surveyed: June 2005 by Stephen.
Last updated: April 2009 by Stephen.