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Manaro Voui
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Manaro Voui is the central crater of the massive shield volcano on Ambae Island. It is renowned for its impressive crater lakes, particularly Lake Voui, whose waters can change color dramatically depending on the volcano's chemical and thermal activity. The volcano is among the most active in Vanuatu and gained global attention in 2017 and 2018 when intense eruptions forced the complete evacuation of the island's entire population. Within the lake, a new volcanic island of ash and lava frequently forms, providing a dynamic example of ongoing land-forming processes. The Ambae caldera is often shrouded in thick clouds, lending the site a mystical and remote atmosphere. Geologically, the Ambae volcano is a colossal structure with its base resting deep on the ocean floor. For the people of Ambae, Manaro Voui is a sacred site deeply intertwined with their identity and legends, despite the persistent threat posed by its eruptions. Continuous monitoring by the national geological service is vital for providing early warnings regarding ashfall and acid rain.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Nearby: Fanla Village (88 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 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 237 | 228 | 247 | 251 | 154 | 143 | 96 | 86 | 92 | 143 | 155 | 175 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Travel to Ambae is by plane or ship; the ascent to the crater usually begins in villages like Lolowai or Walaha and absolutely requires a local guide for safe navigation.
Best season
Hiking is only possible when the volcano is not active; the most stable weather conditions for a clear view of the crater lakes are typically found between July and September.
Terrain & paths
The path climbs through steep jungle to a vast, ash-covered caldera that forms an almost surreal lunar landscape and can be extremely slippery when wet.
What to bring
In addition to solid hiking boots, respiratory protection for ash particles is advisable, as are sufficient supplies and water, as there is no infrastructure at the crater rim.
Parking
There are no official parking lots in the remote villages; it is customary to leave your vehicle at your accommodation or in a safe spot after consulting with the village chief.
Safety
This is a highly dangerous volcano; you must check current warnings from the Geohazards Department, as sudden eruptions and toxic lakes are life-threatening.
Time needed
The hike to the crater rim and back is a strenuous undertaking that normally takes 8 to 10 hours and is often planned with an overnight stay nearby.
Geography
Facts
- The volcano forced the evacuation of over 11,000 people in 2017.
- The summit rises to approximately 1,496 meters above sea level.
- There are three crater lakes in the caldera: Voui, Manaro Ngoru, and Manaro Lakua.
- Lake Voui held approximately 50 million cubic meters of water in 2017.
- The volcano is a broad shield volcano with a massive footprint.
- Ash plumes reached altitudes of over 9 kilometers during the 2018 eruption.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Manaro Voui (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the lake in the crater accessible?
Often closed due to volcanic activity, check locally.
What is special here?
It is one of the world's largest and most active crater lakes.
Is there wildlife there?
Only very few, as the soil is barely habitable due to gases.
Can one fly over the area?
Yes, scenic flights are the safest way to see the volcano.
What must I do in emergencies?
Strictly follow the instructions of local authorities and guides.
Manaro Voui: where is it located?
Manaro Voui is located in Vanuatu.
Manaro Voui: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Manaro Voui: why is it worth visiting?
Manaro Voui is the central crater of the massive shield volcano on Ambae Island.
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History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Saratamata Government Station
Saratamata is the administrative center of the Penama Province, located on Ambae Island.
Nagol Towers (Pentecost)
These temporary wooden towers are built annually for the land diving ritual on Pentecost Island.
Million Dollar Point
A historic underwater graveyard off Espiritu Santo, where the US military dumped equipment after World War II.
SS President Coolidge
A former luxury liner and troop transport of World War II that sank in 1942 after hitting US mines.
Avenger Wreck
The underwater wreck of a US Navy TBF Avenger torpedo bomber located near Santo.
Pentecost Land Diving Site
The traditional sites on Pentecost Island where the centuries-old ritual of Naghol (land diving) is practiced.
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Bokissa Island WWII Remains
Remnants of US bases on the small private island of Bokissa, strategically located in the Segond Channel.
Nature
Mount Lombenben
Mount Lombenben is a massive shield volcano on Ambae Island.
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Mount Tawenun
Mount Tawenun is the highest mountain on Maewo Island.
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Mount Vulmat
Mount Vulmat is the highest point on Pentecost Island.
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Bokissa Island Marine Reserve
A private island dedicated to preserving turtle nesting sites and protecting local dugong populations.
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Circe Blue Hole
A lesser-known blue hole distinguished by its deep sapphire color and surrounding undisturbed wilderness.
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Riri Blue Hole
Riri Blue Hole is accessible via a shallow river creek rich in mangroves and riparian vegetation.
Oyster Island Mangroves
This small island near Santo hosts an important ecosystem for oysters and other shellfish within its mangroves.
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Matevulu Blue Hole
Matevulu is one of the largest blue holes on Santo, known for its lush mangroves lining the banks.
More places
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Lolowai Cathedral
This cathedral on Ambae Island is a key religious center for the northern region of Vanuatu.
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Loltong Mission Site
A historical mission station on Pentecost that marked the introduction of Christianity to the region.
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Loltong Church
The Loltong church is a focal structure in the picturesque village on the west coast of Pentecost.
Maewo Central Range
The Maewo Central Range runs the entire length of the narrow island.
Pentecost Central Range
The relief of Pentecost is dominated by a central range that drops steeply to the east and more gently to the west.
Million Dollar Point Reef
US military equipment dumped after WWII has created a unique artificial reef with high marine biodiversity.
SS President Coolidge Reef
The wreck of the SS President Coolidge is now a massive artificial ecosystem for marine life off Espiritu Santo.
SS President Coolidge Wreck
The wreck of this luxury liner, sunk during WWII, is one of Vanuatu's most famous historical landmarks.