Yaro is considered a local chiefly village on Malolo. During visits, you can meet local people and learn about the history of the surrounding area, the island and the village. This puts the specific history of the village alongside the surrounding landscapes as a focus of your travel plans.

Village History and Tradition

Historical accounts date back to the period before Christianisation. Before Christianisation, the distinctive Bete priest clan from Yaro village made traditional offerings to the sea gods at certain points in the lunar calendar, including kava roots and produce from the land. The original village of Yaro was in Likuliku about two centuries ago, before it was moved to its present location. On Malolo Island, the Mataqali Ketenamasi are the traditional landowners of the Likuliku Lagoon. Na Vatu Tagi, also known as Crying Rock, is considered a tourist attraction at Likuliku; for the former village of Yaro, the rock served as a kind of checkpoint.

A report from November 2023 also described how the final traditional installation of the chief of Lawa continued in Yaro village on the last day. The account links the village’s history to a range of cultural influences, from ancient traditions to a historic event.

Plan a Village Visit

On a previous village visit, activities included visiting plantations and having open conversations with village elders. The boat trip from the resort to Yaro takes about 15 minutes. There is a dress code for village visits: guests must wear a sulu or sarong; short dresses, swimwear and shorts are not permitted. Keep this requirement in mind when planning your village visit.

Nature and Trails Nearby

Nearby Mociu Island is part of the Mamanuca Islands. Tropical bushland and trees cover the island, and a white-sand beach lies on its eastern side. Mociu Island can be reached by boat or seaplane. Mociu is a protected nature reserve; the surrounding waters and reef have been designated a marine “na tabu” area. Historically, guests at nearby island resorts also visited the island for snorkelling and swimming.

Malolo Island is surrounded by a protected coastal coral reef, which is home to diverse marine life. Fishing is strictly prohibited in the marine protected area immediately surrounding Malolo Island. On Malolo Island, the trail to the summit of Mount Uluisilo leads to a former American fort from the Second World War. Walking trails in the surrounding area include Jona’s Lookout, the Ridge Track to Naroba Point and the Mangrove Walk.

Comparing the attractions makes the differences clear: Yaro combines a village encounter with history; Mociu Island offers a beach and nature reserve; and the trail at Mount Uluisilo leads to a former fort. This lets you consider culture, island nature and history as distinct highlights.

Discover more destinations: Natadola, Korolevu, Nakorokula, Vunaniu, Matacawalevu, Nalauwaki, Nanuya Balavu Island, Bukama

For the broader travel overview: Western Division.