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Situated on the East Side of the island, these bungalows have a stunning view overlooking Tanna's most famous landmark, the volcano Mt Yasur. The thatched bungalows are in Imayo, a small village in the middle of the Tannese bush, accessible by road from Lenakel and White Sands airport. The village is just over an hour's walk to the Volcano caldera (or a fifteen minute car ride), and also close to nearby hot springs, caves, waterfalls and the popular anchorage of Port Resolution. The extremely friendly owner, Morris Poita, has worked in various Tanna guesthouses and lives in Imayo village. The two bungalows can house up to eight guests and Morris is able to arrange food and transportation. Volcano Island Paradise Bungalow is perfect for visitors keen to experience a genuine slice of island life. The amenities are basic, but the experience is unforgettable.Rates: VT5000 per double room per night (inc. breakfast), VT1000 per meal (excludes transportation to Imayo).
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We stayed with Morris and his family for one night in our own little bungalow with a great view of Mt. Yasur. It was a wonderful experience, despite the fact that it rained during a good deal of our time there. Morris and his family were very welcoming and made us comfortable. This is really a stay in a village and not a hotel or resort facility, and that is the charm of the place. You get the opportunity to see and experience how the locals live and to participate to a small extent in their community. We played with the kids a great deal and took them with us on an excursion to Cook Bay, White Sand Beach and the ash plain. Having them along made the day MUCH more fun. Morris' wife (I believe her name is Susie) cooked a great meal of vegetables, chicken, and rice over open coals. I NEVER like vegetables but loved the ones she prepared, and the rice was far better than anything I have ever made using an automatic rice steamer. I would HIGHLY recommend this place, and not just for the amazing views and sounds of the volcano but for the interaction with the family.
Several of the family members speak good English, and Morris is excellent about responding to email inquiries, unlike several of the other similar accommodations I attempted to contact.
It is very difficult to rent a vehicle on the island, and you will almost certainly need to pay for the transfer from the airport in a 4WD truck.
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Date of stay: August 2022
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Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
These bungalows, the village and the owners are nothing short of beautiful. Morris and his family are quite possibly the loveliest people I've ever met. They were so genuine and it was humbling to be made to feel so welcome and be thanked so much for visiting. Morris arranged everything for us, transport, guides, food, traditional dance, etc. Morris met us at the airport and guided us up the volcano. He uses the money he makes from his small tourism business to put 20 children from the village through school which makes him a living saint in my eyes! Especially as his family had no luxuries that I could see. The bungalow we stayed in was adorable! It was such a sweet little room with a window view right of the volcano so we could lie in bed and see the red glow (and listen to the rumbles) as we dozed off. As the village is up a hill there were incredible views from everywhere and the walk to the volcano was very manageable (transport can be arranged for if you’d rather not walk). The volcano itself was without a doubt one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Watching lava spew from the steaming growling cauldron was phenomenal. I couldn’t recommend Mt Yasur and Volcano Island Paradise Bungalow enough.
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Date of stay: April 2015
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Service
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My girlfriend and I stayed with Morris, Susie and their 5 children for only 2 nights which was far too few for our liking! Volcano Island Paradise is a beautiful set of bungalows which are situated about a 60 minutes walk from the rumbling erupting crater of Mt Yasur! The view from the dining bungalow is absolutely pristine: looking across the lush green rainforest to the ashen slopes of the volcano, and at night if you're lucky you can see the red glow of the bubbling lava too!
The bungalows themselves are built in the traditional way: bamboo for the supports, pandanus for the walls and coconut for the roof. They're basic without any running water or heating but they do have a small light if you need at night (powered by solar panels). Although by the end of the day we were keen to head off to sleep and wake up nice and early the next morning! This accommodation would not suit people who are looking for or used to resort style living. It's more about being in tune with nature and the ways of the people of Tanna. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is served in the dinner bungalow and is both scrumptious and plentiful. Susie is an astounding cook. There are toilet and shower facilities in a separate block (it's a drop toilet and a bucket shower). However if you're not a fan of the bucket shower there is a river within walking distance from the village, just ask.
When we arrived in Tanna, Morris met us at the airport in Lennakal and organised transport from the airport to the bungalows (which are on the other side of the island). It was perhaps a 2 hour drive? But the roads are far from sealed with plenty of bumps! Quite and adventure really! While we were there we walked up to the volcano the first afternoon and stayed until the sun had set. (Please not that there is an entrance fee of 3250 VT per person - don't quote me on that!) It was an unforgettable experience! Because it can be quite dangerous walking back in the dark we asked Morris to organise for pick up on the return journey. The next morning we elected to go to Port Resolution and see the white and black beaches (because of the colour of their sands). The snorkelling and swimming is great and safe at the white beach and it's a gorgeous stretch of coastline. Morris' children accompanied us which was lots of fun. That evening I (as only males are allowed) accompanied Morris to see how kava is made and drank. It was a great experience and Morris talks to you about the village and points out different plant life. The village itself is wonderfully kept with soft ash paths lined with shrubs. We walked around bare foot one day and it felt heavenly. The following morning my girlfriend learnt to weave a basket with Susie and we also watched the custom dancing from the village which was a wonderful experience. Don't miss out on this! Then it was time for us to head on to the airport and back home. It was all too short for us. We had a superb time.
In terms of costs. Although others have said that it was relatively expensive, I think it was reasonable compared to the cost of accommodation in other parts of Vanuatu. Yes the facilities are basic but that idea is that you integrate with the way of life of the people of Tanna.
Accommodation: 3000 VT per couple per night Lunch/Dinner: 500 VT per person per meal (breakfast is included in the accommodation price) Transfer: 2500 VT per person each way (Note that this is a set fare and the money goes to the driver and not Morris.)
All this information and more can be found on Morris' website: www.volcanoparadise.com
We highly recommend staying with Morris. He takes great care of you and takes time to accompany you (if you wish) on all your outings so you're never without somebody that you know.
Although you can contact Morris via email or mobile phone, we recommend giving him a call as internet is only available in Lenekal and he only checks it once a week at most. If you wish to visit the volcano for a second time during your visit, keep your receipt and you'll get 50% off the entrance fee. Leave all your electronics behind (besides a torch and camera).
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Date of stay: May 2014
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
From the moment we set foot on Tanna, our experience with Volcano Island Paradise Bungalows was incredibly special. I'm very happy to share our experience of these bungalows and highly recommend this accommodation if you are travelling to Tanna.
Poita, the bungalow owner will meet you at the airport with a smile and friendly welcome. Poita arranges all transfers from the airport near Lenekal to the bungalows in Imayo Village in the White Sands area at the bottom of the spectacular Mt Yasur volcano.
The truck ride to the bungalows is an adventure in itself as you climb Snake Hill and catch your first view that spans from the northern tip of Tanna to the impressive smoking volcano against the back drop of a sparkling ocean and the islands of Futuna and Aniwa.
To reach the village you drive across the other-worldly landscape of the ash plain, directly under the cone of Mt Yasur, you can hear the rumblings of the volcano above you.
Imayo village is a small and incredibly welcoming village, instantly you will feel that you are more than just a tourist, as you are welcomed to explore the village and learn more about the culture. On arrival at the Volcano Island Paradise bungalows you will be amazed and captivated by the best view of the volcano any bungalow on the island has to offer.
Accomodation: As at Feb 2013 there are 2 bungalows, each with a double and single bed. Mosquito nets are provided. There is room for tents in the garden surrounding the bungalows. There is a seperate restaurant area with fantastic views of the volcano. There is also a seperate private shower and toilet house. The shower is a solar shower so late in the afternoon a warm shower is avaliable. There are no flush toilets but the amentites provided are clean and tidy. There is no power although small solar lights provide light in the shower/toilet and restaurant in the evening. Do bring a torch! Accomodation also includes breakfast each day - this is normally island bread with spreads, local fruit and coffee/tea.
Accomocation Costs: 1500vt per night per person (includes breakfast) (or 1000vt per night per person in a tent)
Food: Poita's wife Susie can cook lunches and dinners in the restaurant if required. This is mostly local food and very delicious and filling! Just let Poita know if you would like meals prepared for you.There is a very small kitchen with gas cooker should you wish to prepare your own meals. While there are stores nearby, stocks can be very limited. It is a good idea to stock up on any supplies, snacks etc in Lenekal. Safe drinking water from springs can be supplied in the village so you do not need to bring this. Lunch Costs: 500 VT per person Dinner Costs: 500 VT per person
Transport: Airport Transfers: 2500 per person each way. Transport to the Volcano: An experienced guide can accompany you by truck to the volcano, or for the more adventurous, you can walk through the jungle up onto the volcano in around 1.5 - 2 hours, this walk is of moderate difficulty and good walking shoes as well as carrying water is reccommended.If you wish to arrange a truck to reach the volcano Poita can organise this for you. Cost of return truck to the volcano: 1000 Vatu Cost for Guide: This can vary depending on how much time you would like to spend on the volcano so talk to Poita to arrange this. Cost of entry to Volcano: 3350VT per person is charged for entry onto the volcano.
Other activities in the area: Waterfall: A guided bush walk to a nearby waterfall can also be arranged on request. Kava preparation: The men in the village of Imayo prepare kava traditionally by chewing the kava root. While women can not go on the Nakamal (kava drinking area) due to the customs of Tanna, male visitors to the village are welcome to view and partake in the preparation and drinking of kava. Port Resolution: Port Resolution can be reached by truck or a 2 hour walk. There is a beautiful black sand bay with calm waters on one side and through the village of Port Resolution is another white sand surf beach. A small restaurant in Port Resolution offers the famous Tanna Coffee. Talk to Poita to arrange transport. Traditional Dance and Village visits: There are many opportunities to watch custom dance on Tanna or visit a traditional village.
If there is something you would like to do talk to Poita to arrange. Poita is a fantastic host who genuienly wants to ensure that you have an incredible experience of Tanna, village life and the volcano that you'll remember for a life time. If there is anything you want to know, try or do, he will be more than happy to help you so all you need to do is ask.
I can't speak highly enough of Poita, his village and bungalow! An AMAZING place! :)
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Date of stay: February 2013
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Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yes, this place has wonderful views, but it's also extremely basic in terms of facilities. The 'restaurant' is essentially a home kitchen and the food is carbs with almost no vegetable. There's no fruit available, or milk for tea. The rooms are grubby (there's volcanic ash everywhere) and there's no hot water or electricity. The 'shower' is a muddy room curtained off by black plastic. So be prepared (we weren't) and take in water and your own food. And two nights is plenty.
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Date of stay: July 2017
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Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Every previous review has done a good job of describing the place and we loved it as we weren't expecting anything above camping however please note that while we were there Morris was in Port Vila arranging a proper flush toilet and shower so we were one of the last people to use the hole and bucket! This will be welcome by lots especially the toilet but I enjoyed the bucket and also it would feel wrong having that luxury when the locals don't.
Due to Morris being away we had Matthew meet us at the airport and be man of the house for our 2 night stay. Matthew and Mark walked up the volcano with us and stayed with us until the drive back after dark even though it was extremely cold by this time they refused to go and sit in the car.
Susie's meals in the evenings were really great however breakfast was not so I suggest you take something for this.
We spent our 2nd day on our own walking to the beach, we followed Susie's directions and the bush path Matthew took us on but gave up half way there and walked into a village and they kindly showed us their path down to the empty beach a few km before Port Res.
The whole stay was eye opener being only 2 hrs from Australia yet so detached from modern life however it really does give a feeling that it won't be that way for long, hopefully the friendliness of everyone we came across on Tanna remains. I left wanting to be able to give more to the community but just by staying there instead of a western hotel near the airport helped a lot.
Tip: the airport pickup was a highlight standing in the back of the ute but it you do want to visit and need to sit in a proper seat I suggest you ask when booking, it wouldn't be suitable for an elderly person to ride in the back.
Water Tip: The volcano entrance sells drinks and is walking distance from the village if you need something.
Gift: the children all played marbles so a small bag of new ones would probably get some happy smiles.
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Date of stay: August 2014
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Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Volcano Island Paradise Bungalow is a small, family-owned bungalow nestled in charming Imayo Village. It features small houses made entirely of local materials and constructed in the traditional local style, which are clean and lovely. The bungalow is equipped with solar panels so that the rooms have light at night, and ensuring that the bungalow is entirely eco-friendly.
An open-air dining area nearby, where you will eat delicious meals cooked by the owner's wife, looks out onto a truly astonishing view of Yasur volcano. At night, you can sit and enjoy watching the dazzling fires of Yasur shoot up into the air.
The owner, Morris Poita, is a friendly man who speaks excellent English. He can help you arrange for a truck to pick you up from the airport and drive you up the volcano, or, if you prefer to hike, he will guide you up. He will also happily help you arrange day trips to visit beautiful local waterfalls or the black sand beach at Port Resolution. He and his wife do everything they can to ensure their guests' comfort. They can easily accommodate dietary choices such as vegetarianism.
Situated in a small, peaceful village, Volcano Island Paradise offers visitors a chance to truly experience the local life and culture of Tanna Island. If you want to feel welcomed into a traditional village, and learn more about local ways of life without sacrificing comfort, this is the place to stay. Volcano Island Paradise Bungalow offers a unique and rich experience that you won't find at any resort.
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Date of stay: April 2013
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Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This place does get my 5 star rating because of the great view of the volcano. Frequently we could hear the vulcano and during the night we could see a clear glow behind the bungalow.
When we did arrive on the airport the transfer was not present. We could arrange a ride for the same price but this way we could not shop for drinks. There is nothing to buy around Volcano Island Paradis Bungalow. When we arrived Susie did tell us that her husband was on the airport to pick us up. Morris told us later that Vanuatu Air (by far the worst airline I ever travelled with) did call him saying we had a delay of 3 hours. We did had a delay of 1 hour. Because Morris was not on time back to bring us to the starting point of the volcano trip so we were guided by his oldest son during the half hour walk.
The first diner was very good and the first breakfast was ok. The lunch the next day was also good. For the second diner we did get local food because the stove did break down. I did like it. We could get coffee or thee when we ask for it and someone was around. The second breakfast was poor, only bread and a banana. But I did skip it anyway because I did get sick during the night (cause unknown).
Our bungalow was very colourful decorated. There was a sun powered light. The first night I could not find the off switch of the balcony light. The second night that light was off anyway. The bed had a good mosquito net.
Twenty meter behind the bungalow was our flush toilet and shower. The flush did break down the second day.
We did visited the volcano on both afternoons/evenings. The tour does start on 4 PM. Morris did offer us a traditional dance in the village and several walks. Because we did not want to walk on slippery paths we ended up relaxing during the second day. It was unclear why the hot springs tour was not available.
The weather was not great on this part of the island. It was raining a bit so from time to time and the temperature was a bit over the 20 degrees Celsius max. There was a shortage on blankets because they did not want to dry with this weather. The weather on the other side of the island was better.
The transfer to the airport was on time but with 5 people in front of the pick-up a bit cramped. Because of the bad weather the trunk was not appealing.
Morris, his wife and oldest son where very friendly and we enjoyed staying with them despite so thing where not going as it should have. I will strongly recommend this place for people who want to stay in the jungle, do enjoy a view on a working volcano and don't mind basic conditions and less optimal weather.
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Date of stay: September 2018
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Totally enjoyed staying at this authentic accommodation. Susie and Morris were lovely hosts. No creature comforts like electricity or hot water but that's what it's about. Taught son Wesley how to play switch now a card shark. Make sure when u go u take food for snacks and lunch but remember no refrigeration. Take lots of vatu no access to money. There other costs not mentioned ie evening meals, transport to that side was 5000vt for 2.
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Date of stay: October 2018Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our stay with Morris and his family was fantastic. Morris is very welcoming. I would recommend his pick up and drop off from the airport as it is good value for Tanna and very convenient. We loved the simple accommodation with a view of the volcano. The volcano itself is incredible, easily the most amazing thing I have ever seen. We could hear it rumble at night from our room.
A tip would be to bring some soccer gear with you. Morris' kids and the local kids in the village love soccer. We would have loved to bring some footballs or jerseys as it would be really appreciated and a real treat for them.
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Date of stay: April 2016Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tauranga, New Zealand55 contributions12 helpful votes
We travelled march 2017. Morris will be able to help. The volcano tour price was quoted as 9750 Vatu per adult 7150 per child valid till March 2018. We had a 4 wheel drive ute that Morris organised to get to base of mountain which was quite close to the bungalow.
There are more places to choose from in the Tanna Island area.
LOCATION
VanuatuTanna Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
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