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Tanna Coffee Factory
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The Tanna Coffee Factory was established in 1991 and has since grown into one of the most significant symbols of Vanuatu's agricultural export economy. The factory exclusively processes Arabica coffee beans grown on the fertile volcanic soils of Tanna Island under the shade of the surrounding rainforests. Cultivation is carried out by a network of over 500 local smallholder farmers, making the factory a central pillar of economic stability for the island's population. At the processing facility in Port Vila, the beans are roasted, ground, and packaged for international shipping, blending traditional methods with modern quality assurance. Despite the devastating impact of Cyclone Pam in 2015, the operations were fully rebuilt through international support and the community's tireless efforts. Today, Tanna Coffee is regarded as a premium product, valued worldwide for its unique, slightly smoky aroma, which is directly attributed to the mineral-rich soils of Mount Yasur.
- 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 Tanna Coffee Factory is an industrial landmark that processes the famous local coffee. It plays a key role in the island's agricultural value addition and has visitors insights into coffee production.
Visiting
The factory typically features guided tours for visitors, where the roasting and grinding process can be observed. However, access to certain areas may be restricted for safety reasons.
Where to view it
From the factory's visitor center you have a good view of the processing machinery and storage sheds. From the road outside you can see the factory compound and surrounding coffee fields.
Local products
At the factory and its attached shop, visitors can purchase Tanna coffee beans and ground coffee. Other local products like cocoa and vanilla are also sometimes available.
Active season
The main processing season is during the coffee harvest, which runs from May to October. During this time the factory operates at full capacity and tours are more frequent.
Nearby
Combine the factory visit with a tour of the coffee plantations in the highlands of Tanna. A side trip to Mount Yasur or the hot springs of Tanna is also worthwhile.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1991 to promote local farmers
- Processes 100% Arabica beans from Tanna Island
- Supports a network of over 500 smallholder farmers
- Roasting takes place near Port Vila
- Fully rebuilt following Cyclone Pam in 2015
- Exports to markets including Australia and New Zealand
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tanna Coffee Factory (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the coffee factory?
Yes, tours often include a tasting.
Do you need to book in advance?
Recommended for groups, spontaneous possible for individuals.
Where is the Tanna Coffee Factory?
On the island of Tanna, near Isangel.
Can you buy coffee beans?
Yes, directly in the shop on site.
How long does a tour take?
About an hour including viewing.
Tanna Coffee Factory: where is it located?
Tanna Coffee Factory is located in Vanuatu.
Tanna Coffee Factory: what is there to see?
Highlights include Haos Kingdom Witnes Blong Jehova, Lenakel Wharf, TAFEA Provincial Disaster Committee.
Tanna Coffee Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Tanna Coffee Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The Tanna Coffee Factory was established in 1991 and has since grown into one of the most significant symbols of Vanuatu's agricultural export economy.
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Louniel Traditional Site
A historic coastal village in northern Tanna known for preserving original ways of life.
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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.
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Isangel Courthouse
The Isangel Courthouse serves as the administrative and judicial center for Tanna island.
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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 Tukosmera
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Mount Melen
Mount Melen is one of the higher peaks in northern Tanna.
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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
Lowanatom Coffee Processing
A regional hub on Tanna Island for sorting and preparing coffee beans before shipment to Port Vila for final processing.
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.