Things to do & places to visit in Tanna Island, Vanuatu

Tanna Island #3 destination in Vanuatu 2023. The average rating score is 4.86 based on 1.346 traveler reviews, of 20 attractions. Timezone: Pacific/Efate, current date and time: Saturday, May 11, 2024, 3:56.

Top things to do (24)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Mount Yasur (968 reviews)
- Breathtaking! Doesn’t feel real
Spent 1-2 hours Volcanos

This relatively short volcano (360 meters above sea level) is regularly active. See more..
5.0 Tanna Transfer & Tour Services (8 reviews)
- Excellent service
Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Bus Tours

Jack, a Tanna local, runs an excellent service. Many hotels use his business (which speaks volumes). You can book directly also, if preferred. See more..
5.0 Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours (5 reviews)
- Spectacular
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Multi-day Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Private Tours • Day Trips

Awesome experience! Incredible to be standing at the rim of the volcano in activity. Keep in mind you must ascend part of the volcano on foot. See more..
5.0 Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours (1 review)
- Amazing bespoke tour
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Taxis & Shuttles

Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours is the main local tour operator on the island of Tanna, Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, owned by community. See more..
5.0 Mount Yasur (968 reviews)
- Breathtaking! Doesn’t feel real
Spent 1-2 hours Volcanos

This relatively short volcano (360 meters above sea level) is regularly active. See more..
5.0 Tanna Transfer & Tour Services (8 reviews)
- Excellent service
Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Bus Tours

Jack, a Tanna local, runs an excellent service. Many hotels use his business (which speaks volumes). You can book directly also, if preferred. See more..
5.0 Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours (5 reviews)
- Spectacular
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Multi-day Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Private Tours • Day Trips

Awesome experience! Incredible to be standing at the rim of the volcano in activity. Keep in mind you must ascend part of the volcano on foot. See more..
5.0 Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours (1 review)
- Amazing bespoke tour
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM Taxis & Shuttles

Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours is the main local tour operator on the island of Tanna, Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, owned by community. See more..
4.5 Blue Cave (108 reviews)
- The cathedral by the sea
Saturday: Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

It took just over an hour to travel by truck from Lenakel Town to the Blue Cave. Low tide is the best time to access the cave if you are not a confident diver, as the water level drops below the limestone cave and allows you see into the cave itself. There were fishing rods available for hire and comfy bungalows to rest under the shade. Bring plenty of water, snacks and waterproof camera to capture all the memories. See more..
4.5 Giant Banyan Tree (58 reviews)
- Without a Doubt, The Biggest Banyan Tree I’ve Ever Seen In My Lifetime!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Once getting to Tanna island, this was the first thing I set upon seeing. I was led down this hill and through some trees where all of a sudden you can see hundreds upon hundreds of roots going vertically from above to the ground! Just hundreds of roots and of many different sizes. I can’t remember the total size in meters as to how big this thing was, but can certainly tell you, it just seemed to go on and on and on and on! With the branches going off in all directions and along with those branches went many many more roots. So the tree just keeps growing and growing and the girl who took me down the trail said she’s not really too sure how big it will get eventually. She did say that this tree has been there forever so it’s obviously a very old tree! Very impressive and visitors should certainly see this monstrosity! Where I live there are a lot of banyan trees, but nothing like the one that’s featured here on Tanna! See more..
4.5 Yakel Village (56 reviews)
- A Fantastic Experience!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Yakel Village is a 45 minute drive from Evergreen Bungalows on Tanna Island. The village is 1 of 2 villages that live traditionally on the Island. On arrival to the village you are greeted by a village leader who is the only one that speaks english (as he was chosen by the cheif to attend school-for visitor reasons). The children and villagers set up small stalls on the ground where you can by hand carved wooden statues relating to their village whom have been made by children and adults in the village. These are at very good prices and money gained goes towards only tools and blankets (to keep them warm as they only wear grass skirts/outfits). You are then taken and shown their huts/where the sleep. Using materials from the tree in the centre of the village the children paint your face. The village then presents 3 dances to the visitors. On the last one you are asked to join and they all love your participation. Although you can not verbally communacate with them they all have lovely personalities and are very welcoming of visitors! The children are absolutely gorgeous! Fantastic place to visit for some REAL culture! See more..
4.5 Blue Hole Number Two (54 reviews)
- Enchanting. Be a responsible snorkeler.
Reefs

Be a responsible snorkeler and plan your visit for high tide. Please don't walk on the coral. Swim out. It's quite breathtaking, even for experienced snorkelers. It is now Sep 2022 and this area has reclaimed its beauty since the country borders were closed for 2 1/2 years and recently reopened. We found the blue hole wonderful but would discourage people from walking out at low tide. It will ruin this beautiful area. See more..
4.5 Volcano Island Divers (32 reviews)
- Exceptional cave diving!
Saturday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling

The diving on Tanna is one of a kind. The blue caves are amazing dive sites and nothing like seen before. The dive guides are local and able to explain everything about the dive sites and what to expect. I felt very safe throughout the dives. I have dived a lot of sites in the world, but diving here, especially if you like caves is exceptional. See more..
4.5 Lenuanatuaiu Waterfall (15 reviews)
- Super Secluded But Super Cool!
Waterfalls

Lenuanatuaiu waterfall is one of the iconic waterfalls of Tanna Island, and has been a must see for travellers for many years. The Lenuanatuaiu waterfall is reached via the transverse road starting at the whitegrass plains and heading up to the crossroads at middlebush. Taking the left hand turn at the crossroads, passing through Fetukai, and the next right will lead you to the 'Tanna-Adventures' restaurant where you can arrange to be taken down to the waterfall.The 'Tanna-Adventures' restaurant is situated at the edge of an escarpment providing fantastic panoramic views over the eastern side of Tanna Island. Visitors to the waterfall start here and follow a prepared (but rough) track down through the surrounding tropical bush to the waterfall. The small river which feds the waterfall has been said to have stayed within an age old prehistoric period and has remained unspoiled since then. One of the food sources of the local village is the fresh water shrimps which can be found there.As with all waterfalls, it is spectacular after heavy rain in the wet season, while water volumes decrease over the dry season. However, its great viewing at anytime, being enclosed within its own little valley and developing its own moss and greenery around. For those who are adventurous the river can be followed down onto the Louniel Beach - another great attraction. See more..
4.5 Tokatan Tours (8 reviews)
- brilliant tour of the Banyan tree and cultural Toka dance and fire lighting
Cultural Tours • Walking Tours • Eco Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

great cultural history experience shared by our driver, guide to the Banyan tree and Toka dance performance See more..
4.5 Louniel Beach (7 reviews)
- Deceivingly beautiful
Beaches

Louniel Beach is a surf beach ideally placed at the centre of the long stretch of beaches located on the northern sweep of the north-eastern side of the island. Louniel beach is a black sand beach reminiscent of the northern west coast beaches of the north island of New Zealand such as Piha and Muriwai. The coastline is covered in large plantations of Coconut palms and numerous Pandanus trees.Louniel beach has rolling surf, like its New Zealand counterparts, but its tropical setting makes the water temperature much warmer. The beach itself is not flat but - falls away fairly quickly allowing swimming in close to the shore. The black sand reminds one of powder snow and you can sink up to some depth in places. There are a number of underwater volcanic fumaroles just out to sea which results in various parts of the beach being covered in wavy patterns of pumice beads.A walk along the full length of Louniel beach takes about an hour and shows a different side of Tanna, most visitors don't get to see and appreciate. Getting to the beach is up over the transverse road from the whitegrass plains, to the cross roads in Middlebush. From there the road to Fetukai, leads onto the road down to the beach itself - the ride providing an exceptional view of the large Banyan trees and tall tree ferns amongst the dense tropical rainforest.Just before walking down onto the flatland adjacent to the beach, visitors can view the entire length of the beach from an escarpment immediately above it. The view is breathtaking, with My Yasur Volcano smoking in the background. Louniel Beach provides a contrasting experience to a trip to Tanna and one which ultimately ends up being a highlight to any visit to Vanuatu. See more..
4.5 Blue Cave (108 reviews)
- The cathedral by the sea
Saturday: Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

It took just over an hour to travel by truck from Lenakel Town to the Blue Cave. Low tide is the best time to access the cave if you are not a confident diver, as the water level drops below the limestone cave and allows you see into the cave itself. There were fishing rods available for hire and comfy bungalows to rest under the shade. Bring plenty of water, snacks and waterproof camera to capture all the memories. See more..
4.5 Giant Banyan Tree (58 reviews)
- Without a Doubt, The Biggest Banyan Tree I’ve Ever Seen In My Lifetime!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Once getting to Tanna island, this was the first thing I set upon seeing. I was led down this hill and through some trees where all of a sudden you can see hundreds upon hundreds of roots going vertically from above to the ground! Just hundreds of roots and of many different sizes. I can’t remember the total size in meters as to how big this thing was, but can certainly tell you, it just seemed to go on and on and on and on! With the branches going off in all directions and along with those branches went many many more roots. So the tree just keeps growing and growing and the girl who took me down the trail said she’s not really too sure how big it will get eventually. She did say that this tree has been there forever so it’s obviously a very old tree! Very impressive and visitors should certainly see this monstrosity! Where I live there are a lot of banyan trees, but nothing like the one that’s featured here on Tanna! See more..
4.5 Yakel Village (56 reviews)
- A Fantastic Experience!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Yakel Village is a 45 minute drive from Evergreen Bungalows on Tanna Island. The village is 1 of 2 villages that live traditionally on the Island. On arrival to the village you are greeted by a village leader who is the only one that speaks english (as he was chosen by the cheif to attend school-for visitor reasons). The children and villagers set up small stalls on the ground where you can by hand carved wooden statues relating to their village whom have been made by children and adults in the village. These are at very good prices and money gained goes towards only tools and blankets (to keep them warm as they only wear grass skirts/outfits). You are then taken and shown their huts/where the sleep. Using materials from the tree in the centre of the village the children paint your face. The village then presents 3 dances to the visitors. On the last one you are asked to join and they all love your participation. Although you can not verbally communacate with them they all have lovely personalities and are very welcoming of visitors! The children are absolutely gorgeous! Fantastic place to visit for some REAL culture! See more..
4.5 Blue Hole Number Two (54 reviews)
- Enchanting. Be a responsible snorkeler.
Reefs

Be a responsible snorkeler and plan your visit for high tide. Please don't walk on the coral. Swim out. It's quite breathtaking, even for experienced snorkelers. It is now Sep 2022 and this area has reclaimed its beauty since the country borders were closed for 2 1/2 years and recently reopened. We found the blue hole wonderful but would discourage people from walking out at low tide. It will ruin this beautiful area. See more..
4.5 Lenuanatuaiu Waterfall (15 reviews)
- Super Secluded But Super Cool!
Waterfalls

Lenuanatuaiu waterfall is one of the iconic waterfalls of Tanna Island, and has been a must see for travellers for many years. The Lenuanatuaiu waterfall is reached via the transverse road starting at the whitegrass plains and heading up to the crossroads at middlebush. Taking the left hand turn at the crossroads, passing through Fetukai, and the next right will lead you to the 'Tanna-Adventures' restaurant where you can arrange to be taken down to the waterfall.The 'Tanna-Adventures' restaurant is situated at the edge of an escarpment providing fantastic panoramic views over the eastern side of Tanna Island. Visitors to the waterfall start here and follow a prepared (but rough) track down through the surrounding tropical bush to the waterfall. The small river which feds the waterfall has been said to have stayed within an age old prehistoric period and has remained unspoiled since then. One of the food sources of the local village is the fresh water shrimps which can be found there.As with all waterfalls, it is spectacular after heavy rain in the wet season, while water volumes decrease over the dry season. However, its great viewing at anytime, being enclosed within its own little valley and developing its own moss and greenery around. For those who are adventurous the river can be followed down onto the Louniel Beach - another great attraction. See more..
4.5 Tokatan Tours (8 reviews)
- brilliant tour of the Banyan tree and cultural Toka dance and fire lighting
Cultural Tours • Walking Tours • Eco Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

great cultural history experience shared by our driver, guide to the Banyan tree and Toka dance performance See more..
4.5 Louniel Beach (7 reviews)
- Deceivingly beautiful
Beaches

Louniel Beach is a surf beach ideally placed at the centre of the long stretch of beaches located on the northern sweep of the north-eastern side of the island. Louniel beach is a black sand beach reminiscent of the northern west coast beaches of the north island of New Zealand such as Piha and Muriwai. The coastline is covered in large plantations of Coconut palms and numerous Pandanus trees.Louniel beach has rolling surf, like its New Zealand counterparts, but its tropical setting makes the water temperature much warmer. The beach itself is not flat but - falls away fairly quickly allowing swimming in close to the shore. The black sand reminds one of powder snow and you can sink up to some depth in places. There are a number of underwater volcanic fumaroles just out to sea which results in various parts of the beach being covered in wavy patterns of pumice beads.A walk along the full length of Louniel beach takes about an hour and shows a different side of Tanna, most visitors don't get to see and appreciate. Getting to the beach is up over the transverse road from the whitegrass plains, to the cross roads in Middlebush. From there the road to Fetukai, leads onto the road down to the beach itself - the ride providing an exceptional view of the large Banyan trees and tall tree ferns amongst the dense tropical rainforest.Just before walking down onto the flatland adjacent to the beach, visitors can view the entire length of the beach from an escarpment immediately above it. The view is breathtaking, with My Yasur Volcano smoking in the background. Louniel Beach provides a contrasting experience to a trip to Tanna and one which ultimately ends up being a highlight to any visit to Vanuatu. See more..
4.0 Lenakel Fresh Produce Market (10 reviews)
- Colourfull market
Farmers Markets

Great market with a very wide variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers. Helpful stallholders, very colourfull. See more..
4.0 Tafutuna Cultural Experience (10 reviews)
- Untouristy insight into local culture
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Interesting insight into local culture in rain forest setting. Tried local food and saw 3 warrior dances. Also benefits the local community keeping their customs alive and bringing income. See more..
4.0 Port Résolution (2 reviews)
- Une bien jolie plage !
Beaches

Après la traversée d'une forêt où il n'est pas toujours aisé de suivre le sentier, nous tombons sur cette belle et longue plage au sable blanc. Le courant semblait fort au moment de notre visite rendant toute baignade périlleuse. Voiture 4/4 indispensable. See more..
4.0 La Nurserie de Requins Shark Bay (2 reviews)
Spent 1-2 hours Reefs • Islands • Nature & Wildlife Areas

See more..
4.0 Nazareth Twin Waterfall (1 review)
- Vanuatu , Tanna Island , Nazareth Waterfall , Au milieu de la forêt !
Spent 1-2 hours Waterfalls

Walk along the creek bed to the beautiful twin waterfall. You have access to a changing room. The water is cool and refreshing especially in the warmer summer months. You can also enjoy custom dancing. See more..
4.0 Bay des Tortues Turtle Bay (1 review)
- Vanuatu , Tanna Island , Baie des Tortues , " Roc Cook's Hat " Cadre Sauvage !
Beaches

La Côte Est de Tanna Island , est peu peuplée et n'a pas beaucoup de possibilité d'hébergement , sauf dans des gites rustiques dans la pure tradition Mélanésienne , autour du volcan Yasur tout proche . Autour du Village de Manuapen , en prenant le chemin qui mène à la mer , on peut atteindre la plage des Tortues , qui s'étale dans une baie au large de laquelle on aperçoit un étrange rocher appelé " Cook's Hat " , surmonté de végétation avec des hauts fonds tout autour . Lorsque la mer est agitée cela donne une impression " dantesque " surtout quand le volcan gronde ( parfois) , projetant des fumées avec des incandescences ;

Cette plage de sable noir est aussi un lieu de ponte des tortues (Couanne ou Imbricata , mais elles sont hélas en voie d'extinction) qui y viennent à certaines périodes de l'année ( fin décembre début janvier ) . Le reste du temps elle est quasi déserte et possède la particularité d'être protégée par un barrière de corail qui rend la baignade aisée et sure .

Sur le bord de cette plage on peut sentir avec les pieds , une eau chaude à 40 degrés C , qui sort des résurgences du volcan Yasur qui se trouve à quelques kilomètres . Bordée de magnifiques Pandanus , cette plage invite au repos et au farniente . Lorsque nous étions venus une première fois , il y avait un petit hôtel avec des huttes de feuilles de pandanus équipées du minimum avec WC , Salle d'eau et literie basique . Depuis quelques temps ce gite semble fermé . See more..
4.0 Tafutuna Cultural Experience (10 reviews)
- Untouristy insight into local culture
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Interesting insight into local culture in rain forest setting. Tried local food and saw 3 warrior dances. Also benefits the local community keeping their customs alive and bringing income. See more..