Uri and Uripiv Islands, Malekula
These two island,s 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

We have heard of a new bungalow on the tip of Uri island, across from Uripiv (September 2005). Enquire at Uripiv (48939, community phone).

There are a couple of small reef conservation areas around Uripiv, ideal for snorkelling.

Uri has the Uri Narong Marine Park. There's no bungalow but visitors are welcome and can be accommodated.

Browse higher resolution pictures on our Vanuatu Protected Areas Showcase.

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 half an hour and costs 100 or 150 Vatu per person (1500 Vatu for a charter). Exchange Rates.

A speedboat to Uri can be found at the Litslits wharf. A truck ride from Lakatoro to the wharf costs 100 Vatu. The boat ride across to Uri takes half an hour and costs 100 Vatu (1500 Vatu for a charter). Uri has only one boat and it may be a good idea to make a booking. You can call Eric Rose on Uri and make enquiries, mobile 40642 (call from 0600H-0800H and from 1800H-2000H).

Last updated: May 2009 by Stephen.