About Tanna Island

Tanna is a volcanic island in the southern part of the group of islands formerly called The New Hebrides, but since 1980, has been part of the independent country, the Republic of Vanuatu. Tanna is 40 km (25 mi) long and 19 km (12 mi) wide, with a total area of 550 km (212 sq mi). Its highest point is the 1,084 m (3,556 ft) summit of Mount Tukosmera. It is the most populated island in Tafea province, with a population of about 35,000, and one of the more populous islands in the country. Isangel, the provincial administrative capital, is on the west coast near the island's largest town of Lenakel, the location of the hospital and doctor. Mount Yasur is the most accessible active volcano in the world, located on the southeast coast.

The people of Tanna have retained much of their original custom and culture (kastom). They follow a more traditional lifestyle than many other islands. Some of the villages are known as kastom villages, where modern inventions are restricted, the inhabitants wear penis sheaths (Bislama: namba) and grass skirts, and the children do not go to public schools.

There are five local languages spoken on Tanna but most people speak at least one of the three official languages of Vanuatu which are English, French and Bislama (a form of pidgin English).

The island is one of the most fertile in Vanuatu and produces kava, coffee, coconut, copra, and other fruits and vegetables. Recently, tourism has become more important, as tourists are attracted to the volcano, traditional culture, and beach resorts.

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