The Outer Islands of Vanuatu represent the frontier of Pacific travel, offering experiences that are hard to find anywhere else on earth. For families, Epi Island is the most accessible highlight, specifically Lamen Bay. Here, friendly resident dugongs and sea turtles frequent the shallow seagrass beds. It is one of the few places where you can snorkel gently near these gentle giants in their natural habitat, a magical experience for confident swimmers.
Ambrym is known as the island of magic and volcanoes. It features two active volcanic vents, Marum and Benbow. While the full trek to the crater rim is arduous, the ash plains at the base offer a lunar-like landscape that is fascinating to explore. The island is also famous for its 'Rom' dance and distinct wood carving style, offering a deep dive into local mysticism.
Further north, the Banks and Torres islands are rarely visited by average tourists. They offer spectacular waterfalls, such as the one falling directly into the sea at Vanua Lava, and pristine reefs. These areas are for families who are self-sufficient travellers and comfortable with small planes, boat transfers, and very basic village-style accommodation.
Practical Travel: Infrastructure is minimal. Flights are on small Twin Otter planes and schedules can be subject to weather. Boat landings may be wet (wading to shore). Fresh food is abundant, but shops are scarce, so bringing specific dietary requirements is necessary. This region rewards patience and a sense of adventure with untouched beauty and genuine hospitality.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Features extraordinary volcanic landscapes like the lava lakes of Ambrym and untouched rainforests, offering high-stakes adventure for sophisticated families. Peak months (Jul-Sep) represent the only window with relatively lower rainfall and manageable trail conditions, while the heavy monsoonal rains of Nov-May make the interior inaccessible.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
The Banks and Torres groups offer pristine, high-biodiversity reef systems and crystal-clear lagoons far from commercial tourism. Peak months (Jul-Sep) provide the best underwater visibility and calmest seas; however, even the 'dry' season remains humid and wet by international standards, and the wet season (Nov-May) poses significant travel risks.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Home to authentic 'Kastom' ceremonies such as the Rom dance, which provide rare cultural depth for well-travelled families seeking genuine experiences. Most major cultural events are scheduled during the drier winter months (Jul-Aug) to ensure accessibility; remote island logistics become nearly impossible during the extreme wet season.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Features challenging natural terrain for trekking and exceptional marine environments for active snorkeling, despite limited formal facilities. Optimal conditions occur from June to September, offering moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall for strenuous outdoor activities.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Offers profound informal learning opportunities in geology and anthropology through direct engagement with volcanic activity and traditional village life. While educational value is immense, the lack of formal world-class facilities limits this to an experiential learning destination best visited during the drier months.
Attractions (19 total)
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Ambrym Volcano Trek (Mount Marum and Mount Benbow)
Port Vato
25km challenging 2-to-3-day trek across a massive 100 sq km volcanic ash plain to the active lava lakes of Marum and Benbow. Elevation gain of approximately 700m from the coast to the caldera rim. The route involves dense jungle scrambling and steep ascents over volcanic sediment. Guided tours are mandatory. Bike rentals are not available for this terrain.
Visit website →Lake Letas and Mount Garet Trek
Losalava
30km moderate to challenging 3-day wilderness circuit. Includes a 12km hike to Lake Letas (Vanuatu's largest freshwater lake), an outrigger canoe crossing, and a steep ascent to the 797m summit of the active Mount Garet volcano. Features views of the 120m Siri Waterfall. Camping is required at lakeside huts. No cycling infrastructure available.
Visit website →Rock of Rah Hike
Rah Island
2km notable day hike featuring a steep, short ascent using ladders and carved steps to the summit of a massive volcanic plug. Elevation gain of approximately 100m. The trail provides panoramic views of the Banks Islands and the neighboring Motalava island. Not suitable for cycling.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Fanla Village
North Ambrym
A historic cultural village renowned as the center for the ancient Rom dance and traditional tree-fern carvings.
Visit website →Gaua Cultural Area
Gaua Island
Home to the world-famous Gaua Water Music, where local women perform percussive music using the ocean waves.
Visit website →Rah Island
Mota Lava
A culturally vibrant islet famous for its unique 'Snake Dance' performances and traditional island hospitality.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Lake Letas and Siri Waterfall
Losalava
Vanuatu's largest freshwater lake sits in a volcanic caldera, featuring the spectacular 120-meter Siri Waterfall and surrounding lush rainforest.
Mount Marum and Mount Benbow
Craig Cove
Located within a massive caldera, these active volcanic vents offer a stark lunar landscape and the rare opportunity to see bubbling lava lakes.
Vureas Bay and Sulphur River
Sola
A striking natural area where volcanic activity has turned the riverbanks bright yellow with sulphur, set against a backdrop of steam vents and jungle.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Mount Benbow
Ambrym Island
One of Ambrym's two massive volcanic cones, offering a dramatic landmark for hikers exploring the island's unique ash plains.
Visit website →Mount Marum
Ambrym Island
An iconic active volcano known globally for its persistent lava lakes and vast, otherworldly volcanic caldera.
Visit website →Siri Waterfall
Gaua Island
A magnificent 120-meter waterfall that drains Lake Letas, plunging over a sheer cliff into the dense tropical jungle.
Visit website →Natural Hot Spring / Thermal Bath / Historic Bathhouse
Gaua Geothermal Springs
Gaua Island
Geothermal field and natural hot springs located on the western shores of Lake Letas at the base of Mount Ngautieri. Features bubbling mud pools and warm mineral waters used by visitors for therapeutic soaking.
Vanua Lava Sulphur Springs
Sola
Natural volcanic springs and the 'Yellow River' featuring high mineral content and sulphur. Multiple natural pools offer temperatures between 35°C and 50°C, set within a lush tropical valley with distinctive yellow and orange banks.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Lamen Bay
Lamen Bay
A tranquil coastal sanctuary famous for crystal-clear waters where families can swim with resident dugongs and sea turtles.
Mount Sere'ama Sulfur Springs
Sola
A fascinating geological site on Vanua Lava featuring active fumaroles, bright yellow sulfur deposits, and hot mineral streams.
Lake Letas
Losalava
The largest freshwater lake in Vanuatu, situated inside a volcanic caldera and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site.
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Port Pattison
Sola
A sheltered bay near the provincial capital featuring dark volcanic sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and observing local island life.
Visit website →Linua Island Beach
Loh Island
An untouched stretch of brilliant white sand and shallow turquoise lagoons, providing a serene and remote tropical escape for families.
Visit website →