Tucked away in the South Pacific, Pentecost Island is one of Vanuatu’s 83 tropical gems. This island paradise, located about 60 miles southeast of Espiritu Santo, combines natural beauty with unique cultural experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Pentecost is famous worldwide for its incredible Naghol land-diving ritual, available for visitors to witness between April and June. This traditional ceremony, performed by local men, inspired modern bungee jumping and offers an unforgettable spectacle that draws travelers from across the globe.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Pentecost! Look for deals here:
Pentecost Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Beyond its cultural significance, Pentecost rewards adventurous visitors with stunning natural attractions. You can hike to the beautiful Madiut waterfall, relax in bubble bath pools, or explore the spectacular Rell Cave with its hidden waterfall. Palm trees sway in the gentle breeze, completing the picture-perfect Vanuatu experience.
How To Get To Pentecost
Reaching Pentecost Island is part of the adventure of visiting this spectacular Vanuatu destination. You have two main options for getting there – by air or by sea.
Pentecost has two airports serving the island: Sara in the north and Lonorre in the south. Both airports receive flights three times weekly from Port Vila (Vanuatu’s capital) and Luganville on Espiritu Santo island.
Air Taxi Vanuatu and Unity Airlines operate flights to Pentecost using small Britten-Norman Islander aircraft. These planes are perfect for the short island-hopping routes and offer amazing views during your journey.
When planning your trip, it’s worth noting that the best time to visit is between April and June when the famous Naghol (land diving) ceremonies take place every Saturday. Many visitors time their travel to witness this incredible cultural event.
If you’re making a day trip to see the land diving, your flight will typically include time for lunch at a local spot. Some tour packages arrange an anchorage stop if you’re traveling between islands by boat.
To book your flights, you can contact:
- Air Taxi Vanuatu: +678 5544206
- Unity Airlines: Check their latest schedule online
Remember to pack light as these small aircraft have weight restrictions. The flight itself offers breathtaking views of Vanuatu’s archipelago, so keep your camera handy!
What To See In Pentecost
Pentecost Island offers amazing sights that will take your breath away. The island is most famous for the land diving ritual, locally known as Naghol or N’gol, which happens every Saturday between April and June.
During this spectacular ceremony, men jump from tall wooden towers with only vines tied to their ankles. This ancient ritual actually inspired modern bungee jumping!
The turquoise waters surrounding Pentecost are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You might even spot dugongs gracefully gliding through the coral reefs that fringe the island.
Loltong Bay on the northeast coast is one of the most picturesque spots. Its sheltered waters make it ideal for a refreshing dip after exploring the local villages.
Don’t miss Madiut waterfall and its bubble bath pool. The cool, clear water provides perfect relief from the tropical heat.
Rell Cave is another must-see attraction. Adventurous travelers can spelunk through the cave to discover a stunning waterfall hidden inside.
The island’s natural beauty extends beyond these highlights. Lush forests, pristine beaches, and traditional villages dot the landscape, giving you plenty to explore.
Read our articles on the best things to do in Penama Province, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Penama Province, Vanuatu for even more ideas!
Where to Stay in Penama Province
Read our article on hotels near Penama Province, Vanuatu for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:
If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Penama Province, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.
History Of Pentecost
Pentecost Island got its name when French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville spotted it on Whitsunday in 1768. This beautiful island is part of the Vanuatu archipelago in the South Pacific.
European contact with Pentecost began in the late 18th century. As you explore the island, you’ll walk in the footsteps of early missionaries and traders who forever changed the local way of life.
The north Pentecost village of Laone has special significance in Vanuatu’s history. It was home to Walter Lini, who led Vanuatu to independence in 1980. Many locals refer to him as the “father of the nation.”
When you visit South Pentecost, you’ll encounter people who speak the Sa language and maintain their unique cultural identity. Chiefs continue to play an important role in village governance and cultural preservation.
Pentecost is famous for its land diving ritual, a fertility ceremony performed from April through May. This incredible tradition helps ensure a good yam harvest. Yams are not just food but hold deep cultural significance for the people of Pentecost.
As you travel around the island, you’ll notice how traditional practices blend with modern influences. Many villages maintain their customs while adapting to contemporary life. This balance makes Pentecost a fascinating place to visit and learn about Vanuatu’s rich heritage.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Pentecost! Look for deals here:
Pentecost Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Best Restaurants in Penama Province, Vanuatu: A Taste of Island Paradise
Penama, Vanuatu Hotels, BnBs, Vacation Homes, and More!
Pentecost, Vanuatu Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!
Things to Do in Penama, Vanuatu: Explore the Hidden Gems of the South Pacific
