Beyond Tanna's Fiery Peak in Vanuatu, Why This Fascinating Outer Island Is More Than a One Trick Pony

ash boarding down volcano

Famous for its active and easily accessible volcano, Tanna is one of Vanuatu's most popular outer islands. When White Grass Ocean Resort recently announced it will be launching the island's first scuba diving experiences in 2015, it served as a reminder that Tanna has even more to offer beyond Mount Yasur's fiery presence.

Tanna is a 45 minute flight south of Vanuatu's Capital city, Port Vila, and visitors are encouraged to get off the beaten track and explore the beaches, rainforests and rich culture of this remote oasis.

Scuba diving in Tanna – new for 2015

Keen divers have long flocked to Vanuatu's islands such as Efate and Espiritu Santo, and Tanna will join this list of great dive destinations with White Grass Ocean Resort opening the island's first ever PADI Dive Centre in February, 2015. Located within the resort, Volcano Island Divers will open up the world class snorkelling reefs of Tanna, offering dramatic marine landscapes; including caves and caverns, reef walls and drop offs, and a myriad of creatures and critters.
Visit www.whitegrassvanuatu.com.vu.

Bush, bats and beach tour – Tanna by quad bike

Take in the panoramic views of Tanna during an exhilarating quad-bike ride with Tanna ATV Adventures. The journey will visit a Vanuatu flying fox habitat, sail past coffee plantations where the famous Tanna Coffee is grown, visit traditional thatched roof villages and finish with a beach drive and refreshing beach swim. Visit www.vanuatutour.net.

Visit the Jon Frum Cult village

The Jon Frum village is home to followers of an unusual cargo cult, which worships the mythical Jon Frum. Jon is believed to have met with village elders during World War II promising to return with much needed supplies. Followers believe one day he will come back bringing everything they need. The community holds ceremonies every Friday night and visitors are welcome to drop by and witness the singing, dancing and festivities. Visitwww.friendlybungalows.com.vu/tour.

Rainforest Guided Trekking with Evergreen Resort

For those looking for a fitness challenge during their visit, Tanna Evergreen Resort and Tours' guided trek to Yapilma village offers a medium level trek which takes trekkers past an awesome 30 metre waterfall, deep in the rainforest and then on to the South Coast black sand beaches.
Visit www.tannaevergreenresorttours.com/tours/.

Discover the secrets of Tanna's black magic

Experience the black magic rituals practised by a warrior tribe in the highlands of Tanna. Take the Kastom walk and learn about the intriguing beliefs and practises. The ritual is portrayed with humour and rather than focusing on the dark side of black magic, natural magic is celebrated.
Visit www.tanna-adventures.com.

Other highlights to consider when planning a Tanna experience include a visit to a Kastom village such as Yakel or Lowenio village, ash boarding down the volcano or for those fascinated with the Cargo Cults, Tanna is also home to the Prince Philip village and those who live there worship Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and wait for his return.

For more information about travel to Vanuatu visit www.vanuatu.travel.