Adventure Magazine 226

Make sure you immerse yourself in the culture of Maewo
Day 2:
MORNING
Wake up nice and early because it’s time to go south.
Getting to Asanvari requires a truck from Naone Airport to
Narovorovo, followed by a speedboat from Narovorovo to
Asanvari. Keep an eye out for the spectacular birds that
call Maewo home – the island is very popular amongst bird
watchers. While the best of the action is in the mountainous
terrain in the island’s centre, those with a keen eye are sure
to see some local feathered friends, no matter where you are
on Maewo.
On the way, you’ll have the opportunity to jump off the boat
and snorkel into Maewo’s Moon Cave. With ancient cave
writings, stalactites and a kastom story that explains why the
moon sits where it does in Maewo, this stopover will be sure
to delight.
AFTERNOON
Once you reach Asanvari, the Mule Ocean View Guesthouse
is your best bet for setting yourself up for great adventures
in the south. Grab some lunch to go before you head off on
a midday adventure to Lavoa Cascade. About a 2-3 hour
return trip, this is the perfect way to cap off your second day
in Maewo as you relax, take in the beauty of the falls, feed
the fish and enjoy a sunset looking out over Ambae Island.
When you return to your accommodation for the night, enjoy
a meal from the restaurant, or cook up a storm yourself with
their fresh vegetables, and enjoy the sound of the ocean as
you drift off to sleep. Remember, this island has very limited
access to the modern technology you’re probably used
to. Make sure you’ve got a head torch, a book and some
mosquito coils with you!
Day 3:
MORNING
Today’s all about immersing yourself in the culture of Maewo.
Whether it’s weaving and dancing with the local mamas or
witnessing the expert musicians making incredible music
with bamboo instruments, there are plenty of opportunities to
dive into Maewo’s culture, and walk away with unforgettable
memories and new skills.
Depending on flight times, consider the all-day Hanare
Custom Village tour. Home to the first high chief of Maewo,
this sacred land is now used to showcase the traditional
practices of Maewo culture and honour their ancestors.
This tour will give you a taste of the Maewo way of life, from
cooking to dancing to drinking to storytelling. We assure you,
this’ll be one of the most powerful cultural experiences you'll
have the opportunity to witness.
If you haven’t got the time to visit Hanare, start your morning
off by canoe fishing, commonly known as Mule Game
Fishing. During your fish, your guide will teach you traditional
fishing techniques and show you where all the fish are to be
found. Going out in a rigger canoe is a powerful experience
and an insight into the self-sufficiency of Maewo’s locals.
AFTERNOON
To cool off before heading back to the airport, take some
time to snorkel in the south of the island. The reefs here are
unparalleled and a huge draw card for the yachters who
flock to Maewo
For More Information: www.vanuatu.travel
The impressive Lavoa Cascades
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