I think it’s safe to say that one of the coolest things I have done in my life is visit one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes- Mt Yasur Volcano in Vanuatu! If you are planning a visit to Vanuatu, then I would highly recommend adding a visit to Mt Yasur volcano to your itinerary.
Mt Yasur Volcano is on Tanna Island which is located 45 mins south by air from Port Vila. The volcano is known for its spectacular and persistent relatively mild eruption activity that consists of regular small to violent explosions from one or several vents. It’s been continuously active since Captain Cook observed ash eruptions in 1774 (and possibly for centuries before).
Tips for Travelling Vanuatu
Travel with an eSim: When I traveled to Vanuatu, I was able to stay connected as soon as I landed with an e-Sim with Airalo.
Compensation for delayed or canceled flights: If your flights get cancelled or delayed, AirHelp can help you get compensated!
Trip Advisor: I love using Tripadvisor to discover where to stay, what to do, and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before.
Book the cheapest Hotels: Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget stays, Trip.com has thousands of options with verified reviews and flexible cancellation policies. (They also do Flights and Rental Cars!)
Top tip: Book early for the best rates, especially during peak seasons!
Car Rental: Anytime I want the cheapest car rental rates I always use Rentalcars.com
Is it Safe to visit Mt Yasur Volcano in Vanuatu?
Just like the title indicates- I visited Mt Yasur Volcano and survived!
Despite the volcano being one of the main tourist attractions in Vanuatu, the summit has been kept untouched with minimal fencing and signs.
This somewhat adds a thrill to the experience whilst also providing an obstruction-clear view. Standing at the edge of an active volcano does however have its hazards. As with anything risky, following the instructions of your guide and using common sense is key.
I believe the main threat comes from the projectiles. When an explosion happens, don’t panic (or scream loudly like I did lol).
Visit Mt Yasur Volcano Tour Options
There are many tours available that will take you to the summit of Mt Yasur. I’ve been told it’s best to take an organised tour as they have security guards around the summit of the volcano that will demand you pay a fee if you try to hike up there on your own. I organised my tour through WhiteGrass Ocean Resort & Spa , where I was staying during my time on Tanna Island.
What to expect on your visit to Mt Yasur Volcano
I have to say that I absolutely loved my experience visiting Mt Yasur Volcano! We had a really friendly and fun local driver who took us to the far side of Tanna through the mountain region known as ‘Middle Bush’.
We passed many remote villages and even saw some wildlife before we crossed over Mt Loanialu. At 522m high, we stopped on the side of the road to take photos of the volcano in the distance where we saw glimpses of Tanna’s East coast.
Not sure what to pack? See my Packing List for more tips!
After making our way back down the mountain we made another stop at the Mars-like landscape of the volcanic ash plains.
Once we reached the base of Mt Yasur, we were greeted with a safety briefing and Custom dancing to keep us safe on our journey to the top.
Standing near the crater and watching the lava exploding from deep within the volcano is one of the most incredible things you could ever experience in your life!
Pro Tip: Pack a light jumper or jacket. Even on the most hottest day, it can get quite cool at the top and it is extremely windy!
Important Note: If you want to fly a drone, do so from the ash fields. When we checked in for our tour at the base of the volcano we were told we had to pay a 10,000 Vt fee!
There’s honestly nothing quite like what you’re about to see. And the magnificence of the volcano gets even better as the sun starts to set and you can see the glow of the lava from deep within the vents below.
We paid 15,750 Vt pp through WhiteGrass Ocean Resort & Spa
Other things to do on Tanna island in Vanuatu
Visit the Blue Cave
If you’re staying on the island and have the time, I would highly recommend a visit to the stunning Blue Cave.
You will travel by a boat to the small cave opening which is accessed by swimming under half a meter of water.
The gorgeous grotto is lit from above by a shaft of light filtering down through a hole in the cave’s roof. The effect is absolutely magical!
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