There are some good walks on Tanna but few or no tourists using them. Walking is the way to explore the island in-depth and there are some challenging mountains to climb in the south.

Walking around the south
The south is an alternative route from Lenakel to the Yasur volcano. This part of Tanna offers rugged mountains, rainforests, clear streams and it is sparsely populated. There is a road but it is lightly trafficked and not all-weather. You might catch a passing truck in the morning or the afternoon.

If you want to walk around the southwest the best plan is to be fully self-sufficient and take advantage of the many quiet spots along the coast that look like good camping (but always ask for permission first). You have to find your own places to stay. The locals are usually surprised to see tourists in this part of the island and generally hospitable.

You need to make your own route. From Lenakel or Bethel, we suggest walking to Green Point on the first day (about 5 hours). You might be able to stay on top of the hill, near the village, or go down the other side and camp near the beach.

On the next day, you can walk to somewhere near Imaki (5 hours). The Catholic Mission might help with accommodation (speak to the Father) or you may have better offers along the way.

After Imaki, there's a big hill and the road passes inland before descending to Manuapen (3 hours). You can get drinking water at many places around southwest Tanna and there's no need to carry more than half a litre.

Note: Your hosts may invite you to kava. Expect masticated kava. Follow kastom and accept the offer!

Hiking the mountains
There is a route over the Tanna's highest mountain range, passing close to Mount Tukosmera. It's very straightforward and can be done in a day. School children use this track weekly. If you want to try it, from the east you'll pass through Yenumilen village and from the west there are many villages and routes to the top.

You can do this walk from Iwaru Beach Bungalows. It's about 15 km and climbs to 700 m above sea level. The walk takes 5 hours, with short breaks.You'll need a guide to navigate through the villages and gardens on the lower slopes. You can top up your water bottle at villages along the way. There's spring water on top.

Tankyu tumas Andy for telling us about this walk.

Other walking
In the east of the island, walking is an effective mode of transport and the routes are not difficult. To start with, it's an enjoyable hike up the Yasur Volcano at sunset and certainly more comfortable than bouncing around in the back of a truck.

Some other routes are Yasur to Port Resolution (two hours walk along the road) and the shortcut from Port Resolution to Sulphur Bay and White Sands (about two and a half hours).

Last updated: June 2011 by Stephen.