Things To Do
in Lakatoro
Lakatoro is the provincial capital of Malampa Province in central Vanuatu, perched along a sheltered coastline and surrounded by lush green hills. The town serves as a friendly gateway to nearby islands, kastom villages, and vibrant reef-rich waters. Life here moves at a relaxed, island pace, with markets, coconut-scented streets, and warm welcomes from Ni-Vanuatu communities.
Use Lakatoro as a base to explore Malekula’s villages, pristine bays, and authentic Vanuatu experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the beautiful capital of Malekula, Lakatoro, and settle into your accommodations. Take a moment to breathe in the tropical air and soak in the vibrant atmosphere around you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring the island's fresh fruits and coffee.
Explore the local markets and artisan shops in Lakatoro, where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Vanuatuan crafts. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their culture and stories. Don’t miss tasting some street food that showcases the island’s distinctive flavors.
As the sun sets, head to the beachfront for a stunning view of the ocean. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant, where fresh seafood and local dishes are served. Cap off the day by listening to the rhythmic sounds of traditional music drifting in the evening breeze.
Join a guided tour to visit a nearby village, where you can witness firsthand the daily life of the indigenous people of Vanuatu. Participate in traditional customs, games, and crafts to have a deep dive into the rich culture of the island. Enjoy a hearty lunch prepared by the villagers, featuring local ingredients and flavors.
Afterward, take part in a cooking class that teaches you how to prepare authentic Vanuatu dishes using traditional cooking methods. This hands-on experience will give you a new appreciation for the island’s culinary heritage and techniques. You may also have time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of the village afterward.
Return to Lakatoro and unwind at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Find a local restaurant that features live music, creating a lively ambiance while you explore more of the island's delightful cuisine. Engage with other travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥤Bottle of local beer | $4-6 |
| 🚗Scooter rental per day | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut or fruit snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming communities and authentic island experiences
- Access to unspoiled beaches, reefs, and traditional crafts
- Limited infrastructure and fewer dining options in town
- Transport between islands can be irregular and slow
- "Gud mawning" - Good morning
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Tank yu" - Thank you
- "Mi no save" - I don’t understand
- "Wetin nao?" - What is that?
Places to Visit in Lakatoro
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waters, fishing boats, and soft morning light create a peaceful coastal portrait.
Warm colors reflecting off the boats and water, perfect for silhouettes and street scenes.
Colorful textiles and traditional craft activity offer vibrant cultural photography opportunities.
Short hikes to elevated viewpoints provide sweeping sea panoramas and island silhouettes.
Underwater photography of coral gardens and tropical fish in calm shallows near sheltered bays.
Food in Lakatoro
Lakatoro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro or yam mashed with coconut cream and sometimes banana or pumpkin, wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked. Common in households and guesthouses.
Must-Try!
A fresh fish salad with coconut cream, onion, lime, and chili, often served as a light starter near the coast.
Taro leaves baked with coconut cream and sometimes meat or fish; a fragrant, creamy dish typical of island cooking.
Freshly caught reef fish grilled and served with kaukau (taro) or other root vegetables, usually enjoyed at seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air markets offering fresh coconuts, fruit, roasted corn, cassava, fish, and small prepared dishes—great for a quick, authentic bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask permission before photographing people or property in villages; follow local guidance during ceremonies or visits.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting villages or religious sites; remove hats in certain interiors and joinings.
A warm, friendly greeting goes a long way; handshake or nod is typical—smiles are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Lakatoro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Round up bills or leave small sums for exceptional service; in larger resorts it’s common to tip 5–10% where accepted.
Cash (local currency and AUD/USD where accepted) is widely used in Lakatoro. Some guesthouses and larger shops may accept credit cards, but many smaller places rely on cash; ATMs are more common in Port Vila and Luganville.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent brief showers. Cyclone risk increases offshore; carry a lightweight rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor activities.
Dry season with cooler, comfortable temperatures and less rain. A great time for outdoor hiking and village visits.
Transition period with moderate warmth and intermittent rain; good for birdwatching and cultural events.
Another transition: occasional rain showers but generally pleasant sailing and snorkeling conditions.
Lakatoro at Night
Hiking in Lakatoro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike offering sea views, island flora, and opportunities to observe village life from higher vantage points.
A short to mid-length hike with panoramic views of bays and surrounding islands; suitable for a clear-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Lakatoro by plane.
The main international gateway to Vanuatu, located on Efate. From here you can catch domestic flights to Malekula or Santo to reach Lakatoro.
A major hub on Espiritu Santo with regional connections; convenient for travelers heading to northern Vanuatu and then onward by air or boat to Lakatoro.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Melanesian residents with strong village ties, Christian influences, and rich kastom traditions reflected in crafts, dances, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools and in communities; local matches and informal play are common.
A popular sport among communities and visiting groups with local games during certain seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lakatoro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy root vegetables, greens, coconuts, and plant-based sides. Ask for palusami without meat or fish, and request coconut milk-based sauces with vegetables and tubers.