Latano tells the story of a Catholic mission station and a settlement whose original inhabitants returned from various parts of Raga. The story also leads to Fiji: there, the returnees had worked for several years as forced laborers and adopted the Catholic faith. The broader travel destination of Penama Province offers additional nature and cultural experiences. These are found on Ambae, Maewo, and Pentecost, and are regional highlights distinct from Latano’s local history.
Latano and its mission history
The Catholic mission station in Latano was established in the late 19th century. Catholic missionaries made efforts related to its founding in 1898. The makeup of the original settlement is also part of this history: it consisted of about 100 Ni-Vanuatu from various parts of Raga. They returned from Fiji after working there for several years as forced laborers and adopting the Catholic faith. Thus, the town’s history centers not only on the establishment of the mission but also on the settlers’ return and experiences.
A field description mentions the ruins of a large Catholic church, a smaller church, and several school buildings in Latano. A report also describes, at the time of its survey, a relatively large grammar school on the site of an old Catholic mission and coconut plantation. These accounts offer a historical glimpse of the town’s religious and educational buildings.
Penama Province: Volcanic Landscapes and Waterfalls
Across the broader travel destination of Penama Province, landscape experiences are spread across several islands. On Ambae, the focus is Manaro Voui: the active shield volcano has a smaller summit caldera with three lakes. Lake Vui lies at the summit of Manaro Volcano and is known for its emerald-green water. An expedition to the volcano includes a hike to the summit, with panoramic views across the island and the Pacific. Ambae’s natural attractions also include hot springs.
Maewo’s landscape is shaped by lush green vegetation and waterfalls. At the island’s southern tip, Asanvari Waterfall plunges directly into the sea. You can swim and snorkel there among coral reefs. A hike through lush vegetation leads to Naone Waterfalls, where there are crystal-clear pools for swimming. Maewo thus combines a trail through green landscapes with waterfalls and a variety of ways to enjoy the water. The Moon Cave on Maewo is also part of the region’s natural and cultural offerings: it is a legendary place in Ni-Vanuatu folklore.
Culture and Traditions on Pentecost
Cultural experiences take center stage on Pentecost. During Nagol, local men jump from tall wooden towers with vines tied around their ankles. Penama’s Nagol land-diving festival takes place on Saturdays from April to June; as the seasonal schedule may vary, it is advisable to check the latest dates before traveling. Village experiences on Pentecost also include demonstrations of kastom dances and kava preparation.
Other regional traditions also give Penama Province its distinctive character. Traditionally in Penama, kava is grated with limestone, and local women make red woven mats from pandanus leaves. Sara Village on Pentecost is the birthplace of Walter Lini, the father of Vanuatu’s independence. The region’s attractions thus range from volcanoes and waterfalls to rituals, crafts, and history.
When looking for a vacation rental, it helps to decide on the focus of your trip first: Latano’s mission history or the regional nature and cultural experiences on Ambae, Maewo, and Pentecost.
For the broader travel overview: Penama Province.
