Malakula Island

Malakula is the second largest island and the most diverse, culturally and linguistically, with over thirty distinct languages spoken. Some of the best kastom dances come from the island. The names given to the primary cultural groups are Small Nambas and Big Nambas so named for the mens penis sheaths.

The island is shaped like a Scottish terrier dog sitting on its’ haunches. The interior of Malekula is mountainous, rugged and forest-covered with good walking and bird watching. There are old cannibal sites hidden in the bush on north Malekula. An estimated population of about 25,000 live on the coastal areas and around 1,500 in the rugged interior. The villagevrs are exceptionally friendly and enjoy sharing their proud cultural heritage with visitors.

Neighboring islands such as Maskelynes and other small offshore islands along the east coast of Malekula have sand beaches and coral reefs with good snorkelling and diving. Norsup’s and Lakatoro are the most important towns in Malekula. Lakatoro has more stores, a market house, a National Bank of Vanuatu branch, an Air Vanuatu office, the main wharf and it’s the administrative center for Malampa province. Norsup has the provincial hospital. Both Norsup and Lakatoro have telephones and 24-hour electricity. Lamap is located south Malekula with a post office, medical clinic and a National Bank of Vanuatu branch.

With two airstrips, roads and regular transport, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to tour east and north Malekula starting at Lamap and finishing at Lakatoro or vice versa. Starting from the south, you can visit the Maskelynes and do the Maskelyne Eco Adventure, then travel north to Lakatoro. From Lakatoro you can visit Uri and Uripiv islands or continue north along the east coast to Sanwir and Vao.

Yachting is popular also, when travelling up to Malekula, especially around various festivals period.