Tanna Island (Lenakel, Vanuatu)

Tanna Island is part of Tafea Province (Vanuatu), covers a total area approx 550 km2 (210 mi2), and has a population of around 30,000. The island has length 40 km (25 mi), width 19 km (12 mi), and highest elevation point (Mt Tukosmera) 1084 m (3556 ft) above sea level.

Cruise ships to Tanna Island dock (anchor) at Lenakel - port town on the western coast.

Tanna is Tafea Province's most populous island. The provincial capital Isangel is on the island's west coast, located close to its largest town - Lenakel. Almost all of the locals are Melanesians, who follow a more traditional lifestyle than on other Vanuatu islands. At some of the higher located villages, modern-time inventions are restricted, men wear penis sheaths, women wear grass skirts, kids don't go to schools.

Tanna is among Vanuatu's most fertile islands. It produces coffee, copra (dried coconut kernels), coconut, kava, other fruits, and vegetables. Tourism is also an important industry, attracting international travelers with traditional culture and the volcano. To help preserve the culture's integrity as a tourism asset, only locals are permitted to act as guides.

Siwi Lake was in the east of the island and northeast of its peak (near the coast). In April 2000, as a result of unusually heavy rain, the lake burst down into Sulphur Bay. On the southeast coast is Mt Yasur (active volcano).

Tanna Island cruise terminal