Torba Province, located at the northernmost tip of Vanuatu, is the most isolated and untouched region of the archipelago. It consists of two main island groups: the Torres and Banks Islands, whose initials form the name Torba. With its traditional villages, volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and pristine beaches, Torba is an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

Torba is a land of nature and traditions, perfect for those looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. With active volcanoes, unspoiled coral reefs, majestic waterfalls, and ancient customs, this province offers an unforgettable journey to one of Vanuatu’s last remaining wild frontiers. Its geographic isolation has allowed unique kastom traditions to endure, making this province a living museum of Melanesian culture.

Here, the art of sand drawing, recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is still practiced in several villages. Locals continue to use shell money for traditional exchanges and ceremonial transactions, and the Snake Dance, which mimics the undulating movements of reptiles, is performed during festivals and significant events. Water Music, a fascinating musical tradition where women create rhythmic sounds by striking the water’s surface, originated in the Banks Islands and remains an enchanting spectacle to witness.

Far from mass tourism, this province offers a unique immersion into kastom culture, where traditions have been passed down for generations. Sola, located on Vanua Lava, serves as the administrative center and is one of the few places in the province offering modern amenities in this largely unexplored region.

Islands

Torres Islands – The Last Stronghold of Kastom

The Torres Islands, located at the far northern edge of Vanuatu, include Hiu, Metoma, Tegua, and Loh. Remote and sparsely populated, they are known for their strong connection to kastom traditions and pristine natural environment. Visitors can discover ancestral ways of life, breathtaking beaches, and warm island hospitality.

Islands

Banks Islands – A Natural and Volcanic Paradise

The Banks Islands are larger and more diverse, comprising Vanua Lava, Gaua, Mota, Mota Lava, and Rah. This region is known for its spectacular landscapes, active volcanoes, crater lakes, and dense tropical forests. Some of its most iconic sites include:
• The Rock of Rah, an impressive limestone formation offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
• Mount Garet (Gaua), an active volcano surrounded by Lake Letas, the largest freshwater lake in Vanuatu.
• Siri Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in the South Pacific, accessible via a jungle trek.
• Ureparapara, a submerged volcanic crater that forms a stunning natural bay, perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Islands

Ureparapara

Ureparapara (also known as Parapara for short; once known as Bligh Island) is the third largest island in the Banks group of northern Vanuatu, after Gaua and Vanua Lava.

Islands

Motalava

Removed from the modern Vanuatu, Mota Lava and Ra islands are a pleasant island escape. These islands are relatively small and most attractions are easy to walk to; explore white sand beaches and coral reefs around west Mota Lava and Ra or climb the massive rocks on Ra, or climb the Sleeping Mountain on Mota Lava. It's a short but steep climb, but you'll be rewarded with magnificent views. There are beautiful island bungalows concentrated around west Mota Lava and Ra.

Here you will experience eco and cultural tours due to the nature of the island and people. You can walk around Mota Lava which would take about 2.5 hours along the truck road or about 3.5 hours through the bush, or you can hire a boat, put your feet up and try your luck fishing.

The TVL tower is on Mota Lava and provides good coverage of east Vanua Lava.
Every November, the locals celebrate St Andrews & Traditional Leaf Fishing Festival, followed by St John Festival combining both church and cultural activities in Avar Village on Mota lava.

Islands

Gaua

From swimming beneath the highest waterfall in the south Pacific to catching an outrigger canoe to the base of a volcano, Gaua has a lot of natural beauty to boast about.

Located in the province of Torba in northern Vanuatu, Gaua Island is known for its humid climate, rugged terrain, dense jungle and of course, its friendly people. With just 2,500 residents, Gaua is the second most populous island amongst the Banks Islands Group. It is very much off the beaten track with very little infrastructure or tourism.

With a way of life that’s largely dictated by the elements, the people on Gaua are relaxed and ready to tackle whatever nature throws at them, even if it means leaving their villages for long periods of time when Mt Garet erupts.

Don’t miss:
● The South Pacific's highest waterfall, Siri waterfall
● Kayaking across Vanuatu’s largest crater lake in an outrigger canoe
● Climbing an active volcano
● The spectacular water music ladies

Islands

Merelava

Merelava, also known as Mere Lava, is a remote, steep, jungle-covered island in the Banks Islands of northern Vanuatu. It is a volcanic island, with a well-preserved summit crater and a small cinder cone. The island is relatively small, only about 5 km in diameter. It's known for its challenging terrain and the resilient, welcoming, and generous people who live there.

10 Must-Do Experiences in Torba

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

Explore Torba

Torba is accessible via domestic flights to Sola (Vanua Lava) and Gaua from Port Vila and Santo. Travel between islands is primarily by small boats and canoes.