Ambrym
©
Ambrym

Ambrym

Volcanic Vanuatu island dominated by a vast caldera, live craters, and traditional sand drawing.

Ambrym is one of the most volcanically active islands in Vanuatu, dominated by a vast caldera containing two live volcanoes, Marum and Benbow. These are among the most accessible active lava lakes in the world, making Ambrym a genuine destination for volcano enthusiasts willing to put in the effort.

Reaching the crater rim requires a serious hike of several hours, ideally with a local guide, and the activity levels vary — at times the lava lakes are clearly visible, at others the craters are too gassy to approach safely. Check conditions before you go. Beyond the volcanic spectacle, Ambrym is also known for traditional sand drawing, a complex artistic tradition recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, with dozens of geometric patterns encoded with cultural knowledge. Access is by light aircraft from Port Vila or by cargo boat.

Guide

Getting There

By air: Air Vanuatu operates light aircraft flights from Port Vila (Efate) to Craig Cove and Ulei airstrips on Ambrym. Schedules change frequently and are subject to weather and demand; book through Air Vanuatu or a local travel agent in Port Vila and confirm before flying. The flight takes about 45 minutes.

By boat: Cargo boats connect Ambrym to other islands in Vanuatu, including Santo and Port Vila, but schedules are irregular and conditions can be rough. This is an option for travellers with time and flexibility, not those on a fixed itinerary.

Once on the island, transport between villages is by foot or by local truck along the coastal track. For the volcano trek, guides from the coastal villages will arrange transport to the trailhead.

Guide

Things to Do

Ambrym is an island for the serious traveller — one of the most volcanically active places on earth, with lava lakes accessible to those willing to hike, and a rich tradition of sand drawing and custom culture.