Walking Vanuatu on Tanna

There are some pretty good walks on Tanna but few, if any, tourists using them. We too did overlook the possibilities for hiking because there is no commercial accommodation in the south. Walking on Tanna is a cost-effective means of getting around, a means of exploring the island and there are some challenging mountains to climb in the south.

Walking around the south
The south is an alternative route between Lenakel and 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. If the road is dry, you can 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, 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 (6 or 7 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 and expect masticated kava! Follow kastom and accept the offer!

Hiking the mountains
There is a route over the Tanna's highest mountain range, passing west of Mount Tukosmera. It's steep but can be done in a day. Only locals are using this track. If you want to try it then ask for a guide around Loanengo (near Jungle Oasis Lodge) or at one of the villages on the other side (there a several in the hills before Green Point).

Other walking
Particularly 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 pickup. Some other routes are Yasur to Port Resolution (two hours walk along the road) and the back-track shortcut from Port Resolution to Sulphur Bay and White Sands (about two and a half hours). Most visitors should be able to find their own way on the shortcut to Sulphur Bay.

Last updated: April 2006 by Stephen.