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Lowanatom Coffee Processing
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The Lowanatom coffee processing facility on Tanna Island is the production hub for the world-renowned Tanna Coffee. The coffee is grown in the fertile volcanic soils of the island's highlands under natural, shade-grown conditions. At Lowanatom, the coffee cherries are washed, dried, and prepared for export. Since its establishment in the 1980s, the 'Tanna Coffee' brand has evolved into a premium product, highly valued in markets such as Australia and New Zealand. The project is a prime example of fair trade, directly supporting the livelihoods of over 500 local smallholder farmers. The facility was extensively modernized following the devastating Cyclone Pam in 2015 to improve production resilience. Visiting the plant has insights into the entire process from bean to cup and is a key attraction for agritourism on Tanna.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Haos Kingdom Witnes Blong Jehova · Lenakel Wharf · TAFEA Provincial Disaster Committee
- Nearby: Louniel Traditional Site (15 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 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 175 | 156 | 210 | 185 | 106 | 84 | 67 | 59 | 56 | 86 | 86 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Lowanatom Coffee Processing facility on Tanna sorts and prepares coffee beans for onward shipment to Port Vila. It is a key step in the Tanna coffee value chain.
Visiting
The processing facility is not typically open to the public, but the outer area is visible from the nearby road. Visitors can observe the delivery of coffee cherries during the season.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the road curve just before the facility entrance. From there, one can see the drying areas and storage sheds filled with coffee sacks.
Local products
Only coffee from the Tanna region is processed here, known for its volcanic terroir. Travelers can buy the finished green coffee on the island's markets or in Port Vila.
Active season
The facility is busiest during the coffee harvest season from May to September. In the post-harvest months, tons of cherries are received and dried daily here.
Nearby
Nearby, visit the active Mount Yasur volcano and traditional villages in southern Tanna. The hot springs of Lenakel and coastal hikes are also worthwhile.
Geography
Facts
- Tanna Coffee is a pure Arabica variety grown at altitudes of 400-600 meters.
- The coffee plants are naturally fertilized by volcanic ash from Mount Yasur.
- Annual production typically ranges between 50 and 80 tonnes of green beans.
- The Lowanatom facility uses fresh water from local mountain springs for washing.
- The Tanna Coffee brand was officially established in 1982 by Terry Adlington.
- Following Cyclone Pam in 2015, 80% of the island's coffee trees had to be replanted.
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Sights in the town Lowanatom Coffee Processing (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does Lowanatom coffee process?
They process Tanna coffee, known for fine aroma.
Can you taste coffee there?
Yes, tastings are possible by arrangement.
Where is Lowanatom?
It is located on the island of Tanna.
Can you export the coffee?
Yes, it is a popular souvenir for tourists.
How is the coffee grown?
Organically under shaded conditions.
Lowanatom Coffee Processing: where is it located?
Lowanatom Coffee Processing is located in Vanuatu.
Lowanatom Coffee Processing: what is there to see?
Highlights include Haos Kingdom Witnes Blong Jehova, Lenakel Wharf, TAFEA Provincial Disaster Committee.
Lowanatom Coffee Processing: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Lowanatom Coffee Processing: why is it worth visiting?
The Lowanatom coffee processing facility on Tanna Island is the production hub for the world-renowned Tanna Coffee.
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Louniel Traditional Site
A historic coastal village in northern Tanna known for preserving original ways of life.
John Frum Village (Sulphur Bay)
The spiritual center of the John Frum cargo cult on Tanna, which emerged during World War II.
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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Isangel Courthouse
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Lowanatom Catholic Mission
The Lowanatom Catholic mission is a prominent educational and religious center on Tanna island.
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Nature
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Mount Melen
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Williams River
A historically significant river on Erromango, scene of tragic events in missionary history.
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Mount Santop
Mount Santop is the highest peak on Erromango Island.
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Mount Inrerow Atanainyong
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More places
Tanna Coffee Factory
The Tanna Coffee Factory is an industrial landmark that processes the famous local coffee.
Lenakel Wharf
The main port of Tanna Island, critical for coffee exports and the distribution of supplies to southern provinces.
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Whitegrass Logistics Point
The logistics hub at Whitegrass Airport on Tanna is vital for transporting tourist supplies and export products.
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Whitegrass Airport Terminal
The Whitegrass Airport terminal is the main access point for visitors to Tanna island.
Mount Yasur
Mount Yasur is an active volcano on Tanna Island.
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Port Resolution
A bay on Tanna discovered in 1774 by Captain James Cook and named after his ship, HMS Resolution.
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Erromango Cloud Forest
In the highlands of Erromango, rare Kauri trees grow in a permanently moist cloud forest ecosystem.
Dillon's Bay Martyrs Memorial
A memorial on Erromango Island for the Christian missionaries who were killed there in the 19th century.