Nestled in the southern reaches of Vanuatu, Tafea Province beckons with its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage. The name “Tafea” is actually an acronym formed from its five main islands: Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, Erromango, and Aniwa. Each island offers you a unique experience, from the world-famous active volcano on Tanna to the untouched white sand beaches of Aneityum.
When you visit Tafea, you’ll find yourself immersed in traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. The provincial headquarters is located in Isangel on Tanna Island, making it a great starting point for your adventure.
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Tafea Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
You can easily reach the tourism office by phone if you need help planning your perfect island-hopping experience.
How to Get to Tafea Province, Vanuatu
Tafea Province is the southernmost province in Vanuatu, made up of five main islands. Getting there requires a bit of planning, but the journey is part of the adventure!
The most common way to reach Tafea is by flying to Tanna Island, which is just a 35-minute flight from Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital. Air Vanuatu operates daily flights to Tanna, making it quite convenient for travelers.
If you’re heading to Futuna, another island in Tafea Province, you’ll find a small airstrip located west of Iasoa village. Flights to Futuna operate twice weekly, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Air Travel Options:
- Tanna: Daily flights from Port Vila (35 minutes)
- Futuna: Two flights weekly from Port Vila
Once you arrive on the islands, getting around is typically done by local transport. Tafea isn’t densely populated, with most people living in small villages scattered across the islands.
For those planning to visit multiple islands within Tafea, you may need to return to Port Vila to catch connecting flights, as inter-island transportation can be limited.
Check the latest flight schedules with Air Vanuatu and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
What to See in Tafea Province, Vanuatu
Tafea Province is a stunning archipelago in Vanuatu consisting of five beautiful islands that offer unforgettable experiences. The crown jewel is Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, the world’s most accessible active volcano. You can stand at the crater’s edge and watch the spectacular lava explosions light up the night sky!
The pristine beaches of Tanna will take your breath away with their sugar-white sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing in paradise.
Don’t miss the Blue Cave on Tanna Island, a hidden gem where sunlight filters through an underwater entrance, creating magical blue light effects inside the cavern.
Traditional villages across Tafea offer authentic cultural experiences. You can witness age-old customs, participate in ceremonies, and learn about the unique “kastom” way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
On Futuna Island, you’ll discover dramatic landscapes with steep cliffs and lush forests. The island’s remote location makes it perfect for travelers seeking peace away from crowds.
Erromango Island features beautiful coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. Grab your snorkel gear and explore this underwater wonderland!
For nature lovers, Tafea’s remote waterfalls hidden in dense jungle provide refreshing swimming spots and amazing photo opportunities. Ask locals for directions to these secluded treasures.
Read our articles on the best things to do in Tafea Province, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Tafea Province, Vanuatu for even more ideas!
Where to Stay in Tafea Province
Read our article on hotels near Tafea 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 Tafea Province, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.
History of Tafea Province, Vanuatu
Tafea Province has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Melanesian peoples first settled these southern islands over 3,000 years ago, bringing with them their distinct cultures and traditions that continue to shape the region today.
Before European contact, each of Tafea’s five islands developed their own unique customs and languages. The name “Tafea” itself is an acronym formed from the first letters of its five main islands: Tanna, Aniwa, Futuna, Erromango, and Aneityum.
During the colonial period, Tafea was part of the New Hebrides, a region jointly governed by British and French authorities in an unusual arrangement called a condominium. This dual colonial rule lasted from 1906 until Vanuatu gained independence in 1980.
European missionaries arrived in the 19th century, significantly influencing local traditions. On Tanna, this led to fascinating cultural movements like the John Frum cargo cult, which you can still learn about when visiting today.
When you explore Tafea’s villages, you’ll find communities that maintain strong connections to their pre-colonial past. Many residents still practice traditional ceremonies and customs that have survived despite outside influences.
Since becoming part of independent Vanuatu in 1980, Tafea has preserved its cultural identity while developing modest tourism infrastructure. The province remains one of the less densely populated areas of the country, with most people living in small villages across the five islands.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Tafea! Look for deals here:
Tafea Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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