Things To Do
in Isangel
Isangel sits on the southern coast of Tanna Island, Vanuatu, and serves as a small, welcoming gateway to the island’s adventures. The town is surrounded by lush hills, traditional villages, and a lively market scene that reveals Ni-Vanuatu daily life. It functions as a practical base for excursions to Yasur Volcano and coastal beaches.
Visitors should expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and the warm, tropical climate common to Efate and Tanna.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Isangel and soak in the beautiful island atmosphere as you make your way to your accommodation. Take some time to settle in, refreshing yourself after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring the fresh tropical fruits and traditional Vanuatu dishes.
Explore the local area, visiting nearby attractions such as the beautiful local beaches or the charming markets filled with handmade crafts. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, perhaps picking up a unique souvenir. Enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters or relax under the warm sun on the beach.
Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the fusion of Vanuatu flavors with fresh seafood. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sound of waves and the vibrant island colors. End the day with a relaxing drink, soaking in the laid-back island ambiance.
Begin your day with a visit to a traditional village where you can learn about the customs and lifestyle of the local communities. Participate in a cooking class to discover and taste traditional Vanuatu dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. This immersive experience provides a rich understanding of Vanuatu’s heritage and cultural practices.
Visit the nearby Wantok cultural centre to delve deeper into Vanuatu’s history and cultural diversity. Engage in arts and crafts workshops, allowing you to create your own piece of island art. This interactive experience deepens your connection with the local culture.
Enjoy an authentic evening with a traditional Melanesian feast, which often includes kava, a locally cherished drink. The meal is accompanied by entertainment from local musicians and dancers, providing a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Revel in the rhythm of the island as the night unfolds with stories and songs from the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚍Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🗺️Guided tour | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Melanesian culture
- Stunning volcanic scenery and beaches
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good value for money
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Less developed nightlife
- Remoteness can mean long travel times
- Healthcare options are basic outside Vila/Santo
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tank yu" - Thank you
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Wea ia?" - Where is it?
- "Plis" - Please
- "Mi no save" - I don’t know
Places to Visit in Isangel
Visit one of these nice places.
An epic vantage point to capture the crater and glowing lava at dusk, with expansive horizons.
Calm morning light along the harbor with fishing boats and local activity.
Colorful stalls, woven goods, and candid portraits of traders; great for street photography.
Powdery white sand and turquoise water ideal for sunrise shots and long-exposure seascapes.
Food in Isangel
Isangel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional island dish of grated root vegetables (taro, yam, manioc) mixed with coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed.
Must-Try!
Cubes of fresh fish cured in lime juice, mixed with coconut milk, onions, and peppers.
Celebratory or everyday dish featuring slow-roasted pork with cassava or taro accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market offering fresh seafood, root vegetables, tropical fruit, and handmade crafts.
Casual stalls along the waterfront serving grilled fish, banana leaf-wrapped snacks, and sweet coconut treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Conservative clothing is respectful when visiting villages; remove hats in religious or ceremonial spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people; observe local customs and greetings.
Safety
Tipping in Isangel
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service but not always expected; small amounts to guides or waitstaff are common rather than mandatory.
Cash (Vanuatu Vatu) is widely used in markets and smaller eateries; some tourist venues may accept credit cards, but carry cash for remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet season (roughly November–April) with hot, humid days and occasional tropical showers. Great for marine life and lush scenery; carry rain gear.
Dry season (May–October) brings cooler evenings and less rain; ideal for volcano visits, hiking, and outdoor photography.
Isangel at Night
Hiking in Isangel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided hike to an active crater with panoramic views, best at sunset.
Coastal hike passing villages, reefs, and beaches for scenic photography.
Airports
How to reach Isangel by plane.
Domestic flights serve Tanna; gateway for Yasur Volcano and southern coast.
Main international gateway to Vanuatu; connections to regional hubs and domestic flights to Tanna.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Melanesian residents; many speak Bislama, English, and French.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport with local clubs and regional matches.
Widely played and followed with community leagues.
Common in towns with community courts and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Isangel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Root vegetables, greens, plantains, and coconut-based curries are common; communicate dietary needs to hosts or cooks.
Select dishes built on coconuts, legumes, and tubers; ensure stocks or broths are vegan when ordering.