In the Vatthe Conservation Area, in Bay Bay on Santo’s north coast, a type of forest takes centre stage that is unique in Vanuatu on this scale: the 2,720-hectare protected area preserves extensive alluvial and limestone forests, considered the only large-scale forest of this type in the country. The birdlife is also specifically described. A total of 48 land and freshwater bird species have been recorded in the area; six of Vanuatu’s nine endemic bird species are known to use the forest. Nature enthusiasts will find two special features in one place: an extensive forest and a diverse, identified birdlife.
Forests, Mountains and Caves on Santo
At 1,879 metres, Mount Tabwemasana is Vanuatu’s highest mountain and the highest point in the South Pacific. It is located on Espiritu Santo in Sanma Province. Its ascent is offered as a six-day expedition through dense rainforests and remote villages. The duration alone makes clear that this is a multi-day undertaking. The described stages combine the ascent with forest landscapes and villages, rather than presenting the mountain merely as an elevation figure.
The Millennium Cave Tour offers another way to explore Santo. It includes jungle hikes, cave exploration, crossing rocky gorges and a downstream ride back to the village. Before the cave entrance, the village of Funaspef welcomes guests with traditional face painting. The tour thus combines movement through different landscapes with a cultural element at the start of the cave visit. Tour details may change; check the current itinerary before making plans.
Wreck and Wartime History
Sanma’s Second World War history can be encountered in different places. Million Dollar Point is an underwater dump from that period in Sanma Province. The wreck of the SS President Coolidge also lies off Espiritu Santo: it is almost completely intact and contains wartime relics such as guns, cannons, jeeps, helmets and trucks. The wreck dive is accessible directly from shore. The underwater dump and the almost completely intact shipwreck represent distinct, tangible forms of this historical heritage.
The WWII Museum on Espiritu Santo houses equipment and everyday items left behind by American troops during the Second World War. The collection thus complements the historical sites with objects from daily life at the time. Museum collections and access may change, so check the latest information before visiting.
Cultural Experiences and Local Kava
At the Leweton Cultural Village on Santo, visitors can experience traditional dances, wood carving and sand drawing, which is unique to Vanuatu. On Malo Island, traditional dances, local music and ni-Vanuatu handicrafts are among the cultural experiences on offer. What is available there can vary by community and season. Both places showcase different forms of expression, without limiting the cultural experiences to a single art form.
Kava is also part of local culture and agriculture on Santo. Premium kava varieties are grown on small, family-run plantations using traditional methods. They are known for their mild taste and calming properties. Kava can therefore be understood here as a regional product associated with its cultivation methods and family-run farms.
Getting There and Regional Orientation
Sanma can be reached via international flights to Port Vila, followed by domestic flights to Espiritu Santo. The domestic flight takes one hour. Ferries and cargo ships also connect Port Vila with Santo. From Luganville, boats run to Aore Island, taking about 10 minutes, and to Malo Island, taking about 30 minutes. The two stated times distinguish the routes specifically; they are approximate travel times and may vary. Schedules and operators can change, so it is advisable to check current connections before travelling.
When looking for a hotel in Sanma, you can start by listing your priorities: the multi-day expedition to Mount Tabwemasana, the Millennium Cave Tour, Santo’s wartime history, or cultural experiences on Santo and Malo. You can then factor the flight and boat connections described above into your plans.
Discover more destinations: Luganville, Hog Harbour, Penama Province, Malampa Province, Shefa, Tafea
Back to the main travel overview: Vanuatu.
