Things to See in Vanuatu

Gaua offers spectacular hikes, including a grand, difficult two-day test that visits the island's three major sights - pretty Lake Letas, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Pacific; Mt Garet (797m), a semiactive volcano; and fabulous Siri Falls.

This active volcano is one of the world's most accessible. In fact, 4WD vehicles can get to within 150m of the crater rim. Mt Yasur's ash-laden smoke has smothered the vegetation, reducing the landscape to an alien prehistoric desert, with the gaunt shapes of surviving pandanus palms adding to the surrealistic view.

This excellent museum and cultural centre is home to a well-displayed selection of traditional artefacts, including items such as tamtam (log drums), massive outrigger canoes, ceremonial headdresses and examples of Lapita and Wusi pottery. There are photographic displays, and you can watch videos about traditional ceremonies and legends.