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Chief's Nakamal

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Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)

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The Chiefs' Nakamal in Port Vila is the official headquarters of the Malvatumauri, the National Council of Chiefs of Vanuatu. This imposing structure is built according to traditional Ni-Vanuatu architectural principles, featuring a steep, thatched roof that extends nearly to the ground. It serves as the primary venue for deliberations on cultural policy, 'Kastom' (customary) law, and the preservation of indigenous traditions. In Vanuatu's legal framework, chiefs hold a constitutionally mandated advisory role on matters pertaining to land and tradition. The Nakamal is more than a political hub; it is a sacred space where ritual kava ceremonies and vital conflict resolutions are conducted. The architecture of the building symbolizes the collective unity of the archipelago's diverse island groups and reaffirms the central importance of traditional leadership within the modern state.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828272625242425252627
Rain mm211190237222127109766667107116147

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Chief's Nakamal in Port Vila is a traditional meeting house open to the public. Visitors can enter if they show respectful behavior and follow local dress codes. It now serves as a cultural centre and is often used for ceremonies.
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Typical hours
The Nakamal is typically open during daytime, but hours may vary depending on events. Visiting is usually possible between 9 AM and 5 PM. It may be closed on holidays or during ceremonies. Best to inquire locally.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed but without flash to preserve the atmosphere. Always ask permission before photographing people. The intricate wood carvings and traditional decorations provide great subjects.
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Time needed
A visit to the Nakamal takes about 20-30 minutes to view the architecture and exhibits. If you join a guided tour, it may last up to an hour. Don't allocate too much time as the site is fairly small.
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Combine with
The Nakamal is in central Port Vila, good to combine with the Vanuatu National Museum, the independent market, and the President's palace. The waterfront promenade is also a short walk away. A city walk can cover all these.
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Getting there
The house is on Rue Kennedy in Port Vila, easily reachable on foot from most hotels. Taxis stop right in front; parking is limited nearby. Public minibuses (bus stops) run along the main streets.
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Insider tip
Ask the elders present if you can join a short ceremony - visitors are often warmly welcomed. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees to show respect. Small donations for the Nakamal's upkeep are appreciated.

Geography

Coordinates
-17.74620, 168.32150

Facts

  • The Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs was established in 1977.
  • The current structure was rebuilt using traditional methods after Cyclone Pam in 2015.
  • Specific areas of the Nakamal are traditionally restricted to men for ritual purposes.
  • Kava is consumed here as a formal gesture of peace and consensus.
  • The architectural style is specifically modeled after the Nakamals of Pentecost Island.
  • Chiefs provide counsel to the government on all matters of customary law.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Vanuatu National MuseumVanuatu National Museum<1 km · NExplore →
Port Vila MarketPort Vila Market1 km · SWExplore →
Erakor Lagoon MangrovesErakor Lagoon Mangroves2 km · EExplore →
USP Emalus CampusUSP Emalus Campus2 km · NWExplore →
Port Vila Main WharfPort Vila Main Wharf2 km · SExplore →
Vanuatu Brewing LimitedVanuatu Brewing Limited3 km · WExplore →
Malapoa CollegeMalapoa College4 km · SWExplore →
Bauerfield Airport TerminalBauerfield Airport Terminal5 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Chief's Nakamal (10)

Seaside Paama Presbyterian Church

Presbyterian church near the coast of Port Vila, used by the Paama community.

Chief's Nakamal

Assembly building of the national council of chiefs (Malvatumauri), designed as a traditional nakamal.

National Archives and National Library🏛 museum

State institution in Port Vila holding archival and library collections for Vanuatu.

Musée National de Vanuatu🏛 museum

Museum in Port Vila displaying the culture and history of Vanuatu.

🕒 Mo-Fr 09:00-16:00, Sa 09:00-12:30

We care ministry assemblies of God

Assemblies of God congregation center in Port Vila, offering social services.

No. 1 SDA Church Building

Seventh-day Adventist church building in Port Vila, the first congregation in the city.

Tranquillity Dive

Dive center in Port Vila offering diving trips and equipment.

Quartier Chinois

Chinatown in Port Vila, with shops and restaurants.

Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur

Roman Catholic cathedral in Port Vila, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

NTM

Building of a Christian mission in Port Vila, likely New Tribes Mission.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is a Nakamal?
A traditional meeting place for ceremonies and drinking Kava.
Are tourists allowed to participate at the Nakamal?
Usually yes, but behave respectfully and quietly.
What should I keep in mind when drinking Kava?
Kava has a calming effect; drink in moderation.
How long does a visit take?
One to two hours is typical for a relaxed experience.
Is there a dress code?
No, but casual and respectful clothing is appropriate.
Chief's Nakamal: where is it located?
Chief's Nakamal is located in Vanuatu.
Chief's Nakamal: what is there to see?
Highlights include Seaside Paama Presbyterian Church, Chief's Nakamal, National Archives and National Library.
Chief's Nakamal: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Chief's Nakamal: why is it worth visiting?
The Chiefs' Nakamal in Port Vila is the official headquarters of the Malvatumauri, the National Council of Chiefs of Vanuatu.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Ifira Island Traditional Village — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
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 — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Big Nambas Territory
The territory of the Big Nambas in northern Malakula, once feared for its warrior and ritualistic past.

History & landmarks

Port Vila City Hall — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Vanuatu Parliament House — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Vanuatu Parliament House
The Parliament House in Port Vila serves as the seat of the legislative assembly of the Republic of Vanuatu.
Vanuatu National Library — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Vanuatu National Library
The National Library in Port Vila preserves the literary and historical records of the nation.
Unity House — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Unity House
Unity House houses various government offices and is a significant office building in Vila.
Australian High Commission — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Australian High Commission
This modern government building in Port Vila represents the diplomatic relations with Australia.
Port Vila Central Market — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Port Vila Central Market
The country's largest marketplace and economic heart for smallholder farmers selling produce directly.
Port Vila Market — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Port Vila Market
The waterfront market building is a central gathering place for locals and tourists in the capital city.
Iririki Island Resort — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Iririki Island Resort
This private island across from Port Vila is a landmark and formerly housed the British High Commissioner.

Nature

🗺️
Erakor Lagoon Mangroves
This shallow lagoon system serves as a critical nursery for many reef fish species and hosts seagrass beds.
Teouma River — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Teouma River
The Teouma River on Efate is known for its clear freshwater and the fertile valley landscapes that surround its banks.
Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary
This sanctuary off Efate is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the world's only underwater post office.

More places

Vanuatu National Museum — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Vanuatu National Museum
The National Museum showcases the rich cultural history and archaeological findings of the archipelago.
Iririki Island British Residency — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Iririki Island British Residency
Once the site of the British High Commissioner's residency during the Anglo-French Condominium.
Port Vila War Memorial — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Port Vila War Memorial
A memorial in the capital city commemorating the soldiers from Vanuatu who served in the World Wars.
Paton Memorial Church — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Paton Memorial Church
This Presbyterian church is dedicated to missionary John G.
French War Memorial — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
French War Memorial
This memorial in Port Vila commemorates the soldiers from Vanuatu who fell during World War II.
Lycée Louis Antoine de Bougainville — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Lycée Louis Antoine de Bougainville
The Lycée Bougainville is the leading French-language secondary school in Vanuatu.
Port Vila Financial Centre — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Port Vila Financial Centre
The heart of Vanuatu's offshore financial sector, providing services to international businesses and corporations.
Lapetasi Multi-Purpose Wharf — Chief's Nakamal (Vanuatu)
Lapetasi Multi-Purpose Wharf
A modern container facility in Port Vila opened in 2018 to enhance international trade handling capabilities.