The province of Tafea, located at the southernmost tip of Vanuatu, is a true natural and cultural treasure, where breathtaking landscapes meet deeply rooted kastom traditions. It consists of five main islands—Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, Erromango, and Aniwa—with its name derived from the first letters of these islands. Isangel, on Tanna, serves as the administrative center.

With its active volcanoes, pristine beaches, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage, Tafea is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Tanna, in particular, is the heart of many unique cultural practices. It is home to the John Frum Movement, a cargo cult that emerged during World War II. Blending traditional beliefs with foreign influences, this movement honors John Frum, a messianic figure believed to bring prosperity and material goods to the islanders. Every Friday night, ritual ceremonies in Sulfur Bay celebrate this tradition through dance, music, and storytelling.

Tanna is also renowned for its traditional kava preparation, where the roots are chewed before being mixed with water. This ancient practice symbolizes unity and respect, connecting participants to their ancestors and the land. Kava plays a central role in ceremonies, social gatherings, and conflict resolution, highlighting the deep significance of kastom in the daily life of Tafea’s people.

Islands

Tanna – The island of fire and tradition

Tanna is the most famous island in the province, known for its active volcano, traditional villages, and deeply rooted kastom beliefs.
• Mount Yasur – One of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, offering a breathtaking display of molten lava and dramatic eruptions.
• John Frum Movement – A unique religious movement born from interactions with American soldiers during World War II, celebrated every Friday night in Sulfur Bay.
• Natural Giants – Home to one of the largest banyan trees in the world, near Louinio Village, and the Blue Cave, a marine wonder accessible by swimming.

Islands

Aneityum – The island of mystery and pristine beaches

Aneityum is a peaceful island, known for its idyllic beaches and untouched natural beauty. It is also the gateway to Mystery Island, an uninhabited islet that attracts cruise ships with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Islands

Futuna – The island of myths and Moon Rock

Futuna is a remote island with rugged terrain and a strong preservation of kastom traditions. Its most iconic site is Moon Rock, a unique rock formation resembling the moon’s surface, surrounded by local legends.

Islands

Erromango – The island of forests and ancient kauri trees

Erromango is the most forested island in the province, famous for its vast woodlands, some of which house kauri trees over 1,000 years old. The island also has a rich history linked to sandalwood trade and early European missionaries.

Islands

Aniwa – The island of the turquoise lagoon

Aniwa is a small coral island known for its shallow turquoise lagoon, where crystal-clear waters shimmer under the tropical sun, making it an ideal spot for swimming and marine exploration.

Top 10 must see experiences in Tafea

  • all
  • nature
  • wellness
  • adventure
  • cruising & sailing
  • romance
  • family
  • food & drink
  • culture

Explore Tafea

By Air:
Domestic flights operate between Port Vila and the major islands: Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, and Erromango.
By Boat:
Tanna → Aneityum: 1.5-hour boat ride
Tanna → Futuna: 2-hour boat ride

Frequently Asked Questions

Mount Yasur on Tanna is one of the world's more accessible active volcanoes: visitors can travel to the island and, when conditions allow, go up to the crater area to watch eruptions, including at night. Access is still controlled by safety conditions and local arrangements, not an open walk-up whenever you like. Always follow current advice; the mountain is active.
Tanna's villages have kept ceremonial life, kava practice and local authority close to daily routine, even as visitors come for the volcano. Gatherings such as the John Frum ceremonies at Sulphur Bay show how the island absorbs outside history without dropping older beliefs. Distance from Port Vila and a strong sense of land and rank have helped those traditions endure.
Tafea is Vanuatu's southernmost province: volcano country on Tanna, old kauri forest on Erromango, a coral lagoon on Aniwa, rugged Futuna, and Aneityum's beaches and Mystery Island. The name itself comes from the first letters of Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, Erromango and Aniwa. It feels rawer and more elemental than Shefa.
The five islands are linked by domestic flights from Port Vila and by boats that depend on weather; Tanna to Aneityum or Futuna is not a casual hop. Services outside Tanna are basic, and connections do not run every day. Treat each island as its own trip, with spare time built in.