Artok Island

Artok Island, also known as Hat Island due to its distinctive profile, is a sacred burial ground located off the western coast of Efate. It is the final resting place of Chief Roi Mata, who was interred here in the early 17th century alongside members of his court. Following his death, a powerful 'taboo' was placed upon the island, forbidding any ni-Vanuatu from setting foot on or settling on Artok. This prohibition lasted for over 400 years, ensuring the island and its archaeological sites remained perfectly preserved. It wasn't until 1967 that the elders of Lelepa allowed archaeologist José Garanger to conduct excavations, which uncovered the chief's monumental grave and the remains of over 50 sacrificed followers. Today, Artok is a core component of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Access is strictly regulated and requires permission to maintain the sanctity of this historic location.

Nearby cities

Ifira Island Traditional Village

A historic village on Ifira Island in Port Vila harbour that has maintained its cultural autonomy for centuries.

Big Nambas Territory

The territory of the Big Nambas in northern Malakula, once feared for its warrior and ritualistic past.

🗺️

Mangaliliu Village History

A historic coastal village on Efate serving as the gateway to Chief Roi Mata's UNESCO World Heritage site.

History & landmarks

Port Vila City Hall

The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.

Chief Roi Mata's Domain

This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses several locations on Efate, Lelepa, and Artok islands associated with the chief's life.

Hat Island (Eretoka)

This distinctive island is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of Chief Roi Mata.

Lelepa Island Reefs

The waters around Lelepa host pristine coral gardens and are part of Chief Roi Mata's UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lelepa Island

Lelepa Island is a rugged island off Efate featuring significant limestone caves and pristine snorkeling spots.

Fels Cave

A monumental cave on Lelepa Island, considered the place where the legendary Chief Roi Mata died in the 13th century.

Mele Cascades Legend Site

A natural landmark deeply rooted in the oral history and legends of the Mele people.

Mele Village Traditional Grounds

Historical gathering grounds of Mele Village, the largest village on Efate with a rich Polynesian exclave history.

Nature

Mele Cascades

Mele Cascades is a series of terraced waterfalls on Efate Island.

Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary

This sanctuary off Efate is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the world's only underwater post office.

🗺️

Moso Island Turtle Sanctuary

Moso Island serves as a critical nesting site for Green and Hawksbill sea turtles in the South Pacific.

More places

🗺️

Devil's Point Wind Farm

The wind turbines on this coastal stretch of Efate harness steady trade winds to generate clean electricity.

Mele Cascades Nature Park

These limestone terraces and waterfalls house a rich flora featuring tropical ferns and rare orchid species.

Efate Quarry

A major source of coral stone and basalt for road construction and the building industry in Port Vila.

Havannah Shipping Channel

A deep, sheltered waterway north of Efate used as a strategic anchorage and regional shipping route.

Havannah Harbour

A natural harbour on Efate that served as a major base for the US fleet during World War II.

🗺️

Port Havannah Dugongs

The deep natural harbor of Port Havannah is known for its seagrass meadows that feed rare dugongs.

Havannah Seaplane Ramp

These relics in Havannah Harbour are from a US seaplane base used during World War II.

Tanna Coffee Roastery

Processing facility for Arabica coffee grown on Tanna Island, representing one of Vanuatu's key premium exports.