5 Ways to Experience Vanuatu Kastom

Kastom once governed every aspect of traditional Melanesian life and was a big part of Vanuatu tradition prior to European arrival. It still survives today, strongly, in pockets on the islands if Efate, Santo and Tanna, where visitors can get a glimpse into the past and discover the special social magic of the Ni-Vanuatu people.

Visit a Kastom Village

If you want to see real kastom in action, organise a trip to one of Vanuatu’s kastom villages. These are real, living settlements, without modern technology or any touristy gimmicks. They’re a chance to explore Vanuatu’s spiritual past. Yakel on the island of Tanna, is one of the most famous kastom villages; it was the setting for the Oscar-nominated movie, Tanna. For those staying at the major Vanuatu resorts around Port Vila, try the Ekasup Cultural Village. The local Chief will walk you through the compound, teaching you about traditional Vanuatu farming, medicine, kastom and even cannibalism. Don’t worry, that particular local custom has long been a thing of the past!

Watch Traditional Fire Dancing

Dancing is part of kastom. Villagers dance to welcome in the new yam harvest, to celebrate rituals, or as part of seasonal festivals. For a more traditional taste of Ni-Vanuatu dancing, try to visit Tanna during the Nakwiari, when two regions exchange livestock and kava, and thousands of islanders dance long into the night, feasting in front of huge bonfires. Or catch the weekly fire dancing at the Beach Bar on Mele Bay, Efate where dancers take to the sands with flaming sticks and fire poi - a type of tethered weight the dancers twirl through the air.

Drink Kava

If you haven’t tried kava before, you won’t forget your first time. It’s made from the bitter pepper root, sometimes chewed or ground in a pestle, then mixed with water. Said to have sedative and euphoric properties, you can try kava at lots of bars in Port Vila.

Head to the local markets or roadside stalls

In Port Vila head to the Market House or as it’s more commonly known the Mamas Markets, after the mamas behind the stalls dressed in bright colours and loudly calling out the local fresh produce they are selling. The markets are always filled with travellers, and the energy is lively. Be sure to head towards the rear of the market where you’ll see mamas grilling and frying kaikai (island food). Try hot, pork-filled tuluk or the famous laplap, made from yam paste, spinach and grated coconut.
If you are heading over to island of Tanna you can head to the main markets in Lenakel or try one of the many roadside stalls around the island. These stalls are run by the local farmers so are stocked with fresh seasonal produce, just be sure to carry lots of small vatu notes and coins if you wish to make a purchase. We recommend trying the pawpaw and copra – dried coconut meat.

Land Diving in Pentecost

Every year, between April and June, the young men of Pentecost Island climb wooden towers, 30 metres above the ground, then launch themselves off, head first, with nothing but two tree vines wrapped around their ankles. This is the phenomenon known as ‘land diving’ or ‘Nangol’, and it only happens in this one place at this one time of the year. This traditional Melanesian ritual, believed to usher in a good harvest, was the inspiration behind modern bungee jumping. Day trips from Port Vila are available for those wanting to see this ritual.

If our list has you wanting to experience  firsthand Vanuatu’s unique Kastom, call one of our Vanuatu Holiday specialists today on 1800 800 722 to discuss a tailor made itinerary for your next trip.