Ambrym Island

Adventure Awaits on Vanuatu's Volcanic Island

Are you looking for adventure and enjoyment in the South Pacific? Ambrym Island offers a wealth of opportunity for those with an adventurous spirit. This volcanic island has long been one of the star jewels in the beautiful crown of Vanuatu. Early European explorers remarked on the beauty of the islands, as well as the frequent volcanic eruptions. Today, several villages dot the volcanic slopes, with thick jungle in between. No roads cut through the jungle, making it an ideal place for true adventure.

What's To Do?

Ambrym Island is filled with things to do. However, if you want swimming pools and nightclubs, head to Port Vila on Efate. You won't find much in the way of modern convenience on Ambrym. The island is included with Malekula and several smaller neighbors in the Malampa Province. The islands main source of income is coconut plantations, though several villages exist by subsistence farming. The largest attractions (literally!) are Benbow and Marum volcanoes, both of which are located on the island. Exploring the calderas is one of the top excursions on the island, though this should only be undertaken with an experienced guide.

Another popular activity is witnessing native dances and ceremonies. The island is famous for sorcery and magic, as well as woodcarving and Rom dances. The residents of Ambrym follow tradition very closely, with most still speaking a native dialect. You'll also find French and Bislama spoken, as well as occasional English, though these are somewhat rare.

Where to Stay?

You will not find any hotels or resorts on Ambrym Island. If you travel to the area and intend to remain overnight, "guesthouses" are available for rent, or you can camp in several places. However, there is no fishing, hunting or other activities in the northern part of the island during the yam planting season, which runs from September 1 – December 31. If you visit during this time of year, you'll need to begin your tour from the south of the island.

Getting Around

There are no roads on Ambrym island, cutting through the jungle. The few tracks there are lead from the plantations to coastal settlements or docks. The thick, verdant jungle is almost untouched. Travel around the island is usually done by motorized canoes, though 4x4 vehicles do ply the tracks between plantations and shipping facilities. Walking is the dominant form of transportation in the inland portions of the island.

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