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Lamap Port
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Lamap Port, located in southeastern Malekula, is a strategically vital transshipment point for Vanuatu's second-largest island. It serves primarily as the export hub for copra and cocoa, which are the two mainstays of the local economy in Malampa Province. The sheltered location within Port Sandwich Bay provides vessels with a safe anchorage even during rough weather conditions. Historically, Lamap was a significant center during the British-French Condominium era, a heritage still reflected in the region's architecture and bilingualism. In recent years, the port has seen upgrades to accommodate larger cargo vessels and passenger ferries connecting Malekula with the capital, Port Vila. For the surrounding village communities, the port is the only link to the global market, making it essential for the supply of fuel and consumer goods.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Nearby: Small Nambas Territory (42 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 215 | 214 | 238 | 246 | 143 | 121 | 81 | 76 | 82 | 124 | 140 | 164 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Lamap Port in southeast Malekula serves as a strategic transshipment point for agricultural produce from the region. It plays a central role in exporting goods such as copra and fresh fruit to other islands.
Visiting
The port area is usually accessible from the adjacent public road, allowing visitors to watch loading activities. From the waterfront, one can see the comings and goings of small cargo vessels.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the small jetty or the coastal road running along the harbor. From here, both the port operations and the surrounding coastal landscape of southeast Malekula are visible.
Local products
Local agricultural products such as copra, cacao, and seasonal fruits are typically shipped from this port. Travelers can discover these goods at nearby village markets, especially after harvest season.
Active season
The port is busiest during the dry season when agricultural harvests are transported. Activity typically peaks from June to October following the main harvest periods.
Nearby
Combine a port visit with exploring traditional villages and markets in southeast Malekula. The region also has hiking opportunities to volcanic peaks and scenic coastal walks.
Geography
Facts
- The port is located in Port Sandwich Bay, one of the finest natural harbors in the island.
- Malekula island produces over 20% of Vanuatu's total cocoa output.
- Lamap served as a major French administrative headquarters before independence in 1980.
- A large supply vessel from Port Vila visits the port on a monthly basis.
- The region around the port is famous for its annual traditional mask festivals.
- There is a nearby airfield that supports the port's logistical operations.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Lamap Port (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the port of Lamap?
A small docking point on Malekula.
Is it important for tourists?
Only for crossing or during boat tours.
Is there infrastructure there?
Very rudimentary, rather informal.
How do you get there?
By boat from other islands or via local roads.
Is there a beach nearby?
Yes, the area has natural coasts.
Lamap Port: where is it located?
Lamap Port is located in Vanuatu.
Lamap Port: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Lamap Port: why is it worth visiting?
Lamap Port, located in southeastern Malekula, is a strategically vital transshipment point for Vanuatu's second-largest island.
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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.
Small Nambas Territory
The historical residential areas of the Small Nambas tribe in southern Malakula, known for their unique culture.
Fanla Village
An ancient village on Ambrym considered the most important center for traditional magic and the Rom dance.
History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
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Lamap Catholic Mission
The Lamap mission on Malekula island is a significant example of French colonial architecture.
South West Bay
South West Bay on Malakula is a deep, natural harbor surrounded by mountains and extensive mangrove forests.
Ambrym Magic Square
A ceremonial ground on Ambrym famous for sand drawings and the preservation of ancient spiritual traditions.
Lakatoro Council House
The Lakatoro Council House is the administrative heart of the Malampa Province on Malekula island.
Rano Island Dancing Ground
An ancient ceremonial ground on Rano Island off Malakula, lined with monolithic stones.
Pentecost Land Diving Site
The traditional sites on Pentecost Island where the centuries-old ritual of Naghol (land diving) is practiced.
Nagol Towers (Pentecost)
These temporary wooden towers are built annually for the land diving ritual on Pentecost Island.
Nature
South Malekula Seagrass
These extensive underwater meadows are vital for the conservation of dugong populations in the Malampa archipelago.
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Maskelyne Islands Mangroves
The Maskelynes host some of Vanuatu's densest mangrove forests, serving as shark nurseries.
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Mount Napiuan
Mount Napiuan is the highest point in the central highlands of Malakula.
Crab Bay Conservation Area
This Malekula sanctuary specializes in preserving land crab populations and mangrove forests.
Epi Island Dugong Sanctuary
Lamen Bay on Epi Island is world-famous for its resident dugong population living in the seagrass meadows.
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Mount Taniar
Mount Taniar is the most prominent peak on Epi Island.
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Mount Lopevi
Mount Lopevi forms its own almost perfectly conical island.
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Mount Vulmat
Mount Vulmat is the highest point on Pentecost Island.
More places
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Lamap French Mission
A significant center of French influence on Malakula during the Anglo-French Condominium era.
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Port Sandwich Wharf
The historical wharf at Port Sandwich was once a major copra export hub on Malekula island.
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Mount Benbow
Mount Benbow is the second active crater on Ambrym Island, characterized by a barren ash plain and steep crater walls.
Mount Marum
Mount Marum is one of the two active volcanic cones within the massive caldera on Ambrym Island, known for its lava lakes.
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Malakula Cannibal Site
A historical site on Malakula reflecting the ritualistic past of the local tribes.
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Craig Cove Wharf
The main trading point for West Ambrym, enabling the export of copra and the import of essential goods for islanders.
Ambrym Slit Gongs
The monumental carved slit gongs (Atingting) are iconic symbols of the culture of Ambrym island.
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Paama Highlands
The highlands of Paama Island are characterized by extremely steep slopes and deeply incised valleys.