| Uri
and Uripiv Islands, East Malekula
These
two islands with sand beaches and coral reefs are much nicer
places to stay than the towns of Lakatoro and Norsup on
the mainland. Uripiv has more reefs and beaches and Uri
has more mud and mangroves. The western tip of Uri has a
nice, private sand beach.
Uripiv
has two accommodation options:
Jionmari Beach Bungalows,
Uripiv Island 
Ngaim Orsel Guesthouse,
Uripiv Island
There
are a couple of small reef conservation areas around Uripiv,
ideal for snorkelling. Make your enquiries on Uripiv.
Uri
has the Uri Narong
Marine Park. There's no bungalow but visitors are welcome
and can be accommodated.
Update
Sep-2005:
A new bungalow has been built on the tip of Uri island across
from Uripiv. Enquire at Uripiv (48939, community phone).
Services
and Suggestions
Uripiv is more heavily populated and more developed. It
has telephones, stores and kava
bars. Uri has only one village, no public phones and a most
basic store. Both islands have medical aid posts and there's
a hospital at Norsup on the mainland.
There
are lots of mosquitoes on Uri so be sure to bring insect
repellent and a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are not a problem
on Uripiv.
Transport
Speedboats from Uripiv land at the old wharf near Lakatoro
which is 5 minutes walk down the dirt road past the MDC
store. They come to Lakatoro in the morning and go back
in the afternoon. The ride takes less than an hour and costs
100 or 150 Vatu per person (1500 Vatu for a charter). Exchange
Rates.
The
speedboat from Uri can be found at the main wharf at Litslits.
A truck ride from Lakatoro to the wharf costs 100 Vatu.
The boat ride across to Uri takes less than an hour and
costs 100 Vatu (1500 Vatu for a charter). Uri has only one
boat so it may be a good idea to make a booking. You can
call Eric Rose on Uri and make enquiries (mobile 40642,
0600H-0800H and 1800H-2000H).
See
our Malekula page for other transport information.
Browse
higher resolution pictures on our Vanuatu
Protected Areas Showcase.
Last
updated: October 2005 by Stephen.
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