Chief Roi Mata’s Domain tells the story of a paramount chief through three sites on three islands. Dating from the early 17th century, the sites are located on Efate, Lelepa and Artok and are connected to the life and death of the last paramount chief, Roi Mata. They include his residence, the place of his death and his mass burial site. Chief Roi Mata’s Domain was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in Vanuatu. Here, the heritage is understood as a connection between three places, not as a single monument.

Culture Between History and the Present

In Port Vila, the Vanuatu National Museum offers live demonstrations of sand drawing, as well as exhibitions on kastom artefacts and history. If you have a particular demonstration in mind, check the current programme before your visit.

Another cultural tradition is Nagol, also known as land diving. On Pentecost, the event takes place every year from April to June: men jump from tall wooden towers with vines attached to their ankles. Check the exact dates and locations before travelling. This helps distinguish this seasonal experience from the museum and cultural experiences described as available year-round.

At Ekasup Village, visitors can learn about traditional cooking methods and discover local crafts. Food and handicrafts offer different insights into everyday local life. Kava is also part of the cultural experience: this traditional drink is made from the root of the kava plant, a type of pepper, and can be sampled in a nakamal, a traditional kava bar.

Volcanoes, Waterfalls and Island Nature

Mount Yasur on the island of Tanna is considered the world’s most accessible volcano. In a different setting near Port Vila lies Mele Cascades: the waterfall is surrounded by lush tropical forest, and a scenic path leads to natural swimming pools. As trail conditions can change, it is a good idea to check them before visiting.

There are several ways to explore Nguna Island: it can be reached by boat from Emua Wharf, and tours there include a hike to an extinct volcano and diving in the Nguna Pele Marine Protected Area. Check current transport options in advance, as schedules can change. Day trips to Lelepa Island offer a different focus: they include snorkelling in a marine protected area and a visit to a historic cave. Underwater or in the cave, you can encounter different sides of the island.

On Santo, Matevulu Blue Hole is the largest of the island’s blue holes. Espiritu Santo is also known for wreck diving: the SS President Coolidge is just over 200 metres long and is one of the largest shipwrecks in the world; its deepest point lies at a depth of 70 metres. These dimensions help explain why the wreck is a prominent diving attraction, although its deepest areas are not equally relevant to every dive.

Wildlife watching is also among Vanuatu’s nature experiences. Lamen Bay on the west coast of Epi is considered one of the best places in the country to see dugongs in the wild. Sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.

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