Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

Tanna

Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea / Vanuatu

Hi all,

I'll be in Port Vila on a vacation and was thinking of making a short visit to Tanna - to see the volcano and some of the villages (the usual eco-tourism stuff).

I'm a bit tight on time, will 2 nights and 1 full day be sufficient to see the main sights of Tanna and return to Port Vila?

Thanks!

Yes you can definitely see the main sight which is Yasur. It is quite expensive (75 USD entrance fee per person last year) but worth it for sure.

If staying in Lenakel, you could fit in a visit to Yakel village in the morning. You probably want your guesthouse to arrange the logistics (and be ready to pay up), as Yakel+Yasur in one day is too tight to organize on your own.

If staying near the volcano, your guesthouse can help visiting any surrounding village.

I am not sure what is eco-tourism these days, so cant comment on that

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That is enough time. You can stay near the volcano (some have limited electricity, food options) in basic bungalow accommodation about 1.5hr drive from airport. Or stay in more modern accommodation near airport, beaches, Lenakel market but 1.5hr drive from volcano.

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Thanks guys! Appreciate the comments.

I guess now I need to decide whether visiting Tanna is worth the time/expense. I will be in Port Vila on a short holiday and was considering visiting one other island - does Tanna make the most sense? Any other suggestions?

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There are very few places where you can see an erupting volcano from up close - so seeing Mt Yasur was one of my favorite travel experiences.

If you dont care much about volcanoes other islands will do as well. E.g. if you like diving, Espirito Santo

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Thanks all for your help - I'm looking forward to Tanna!

Just quickly - it seems that all the accom options charge a decent amount for airport transfer - around the $50 each way. Is this standard for Tanna? OR will I be able to find people to take me upon landing at Tanna for cheaper?

Thanks!

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From airport to Lenakel area 50 USD is way overpriced. You can just take a taxi when you arrive.

For a transfer to the volcano side that sounds about right for the "tourist price".

I arrived without having a transfer booked and just joined another group (that had booked a transfer). Worst case scenario would be to go to Lenakel first and find transport to the volcano side there. However given your time constraint that might be risky.

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