Tanna Island, Vanuatu Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Nestled in the South Pacific, Tanna Island is a hidden gem in the Vanuatu archipelago that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. As the third most populous island in Vanuatu and the most populous in Tafea Province, Tanna offers an extraordinary mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Imagine standing at the edge of Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, feeling the ground rumble beneath your feet. When you’re not volcano-watching, you can explore stunning blue caves, swim in crystal-clear cenotes, or visit traditional cultural villages like Yakel.

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The island’s fertile landscape produces coffee, copra, and supports cattle ranching, all while maintaining its lush, tropical beauty.

How to Get to Tanna Island

The easiest way to reach Tanna Island is by taking a 35-minute flight from Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu offers daily flights to the island, making this the most convenient option for travelers.

If you’re coming from Espiritu Santo or other islands in Vanuatu, you’ll need to transit through Port Vila first, as there are no direct routes to Tanna from other islands.

For last-minute travelers, Air Taxi sometimes has standby seats available on volcano tours. It’s worth calling them to check availability if you’re flexible with your travel dates.

White Grass Airport serves as Tanna’s main entry point. Many resorts, including the popular White Grass Ocean Resort, offer airport pickup services for guests. It’s best to arrange this in advance with your accommodation.

Once on the island, you have several transportation options:

Resort transfers: Most resorts can arrange private transfers to attractions
Minibuses: Regular service departing from Lenakel (the main town)
Local trucks: Affordable option that locals use
Private hire: Available through your accommodation

For exploring the island thoroughly, organizing transportation through your resort is typically the most reliable method. Lenakel serves as the transportation hub of the island, so you’ll likely pass through here during your stay.

What to See in Tanna Island

Mount Yasur is Tanna’s star attraction. This active volcano puts on a spectacular show with regular eruptions that light up the night sky. You can get surprisingly close to the crater’s edge for an unforgettable experience.

The Blue Cave is another must-visit spot. This natural sea cave is accessible only by swimming through an underwater entrance, revealing a magical blue-lit cavern inside.

Traditional villages like Yakel offer authentic cultural experiences. You can witness ancient customs, traditional dances, and learn about the local way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Don’t miss the Giant Banyan Tree, one of the largest trees in the world. Its massive root system creates an impressive natural cathedral.

Natural Wonders in Tanna:

Blue Holes (underwater tunnels and sinkholes)
Sulphur Bay (where Mount Yasur meets the ocean)
Port Resolution (beautiful bay with hot springs)
Blue Hole Number Two (freshwater swimming spot)

North Tanna offers lush landscapes and beautiful gardens that showcase the island’s fertile volcanic soil. The contrast between these green spaces and the stark volcanic areas is breathtaking.

For wildlife lovers, Tanna offers nature tours where you can spot unique island species in their natural habitat.

Read our articles on the best things to do in Tanna Island, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Tanna Island, Vanuatu for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Tanna Island

Read our article on hotels near Tanna Island, 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 Tanna Island, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History of Tanna Island

Tanna’s history began about 3,000-3,500 years ago when Melanesian sailors from the Lapita culture first arrived on its shores. These early settlers came from the Bismarck archipelago in Papua New Guinea, establishing the first human presence on the island.

The island remained relatively isolated until European contact. Tanna’s rich cultural traditions, known as kastom, developed during this long period of isolation, shaping the island’s unique identity.

Europeans arrived in the 19th century, bringing significant changes. Both British and French colonial powers claimed control over Tanna, creating a dual colonial system that lasted until Vanuatu gained independence.

Christian missionaries also arrived during this period, with Scottish Presbyterian missionaries establishing the first churches. This religious influence exists alongside traditional beliefs.

One fascinating aspect of Tanna’s history is the emergence of the John Frum movement in the 1930s. This cargo cult developed in response to American military presence during World War II and still has followers today.

Traditional cultural expressions like grass skirts remain important in ceremonies and celebrations. These vibrant garments represent a living connection to ancient customs that have survived colonial influence.

When you visit Tanna today, you’ll find a place where history is visible in daily life. Villages still practice ancient traditions while navigating the modern world, offering you a rare glimpse into living history that spans thousands of years.

Tanna Island 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Tanna Island! Look for deals here:
Tanna Island Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs