Nguna Island TRavel info

Where to stay   See accommodation Map              

WHAT TO DO   nguna tours
Contacting the Bungalows
Cell phone reception is patchy on Nguna. In addition people rely on solar and generators for power, so their phones may not be charged. If they don’t answer, keep trying the number. Send a text. If you still can’t get through, contact the Shefa Tourism Office on 5526028
 
Getting there
Boats from Emua Wharf cost 3,000 vatu each way as a charter (up to 15 pax) or 500 vatu per person when travelling as a local (ie. the boat leaves when it is full and doesn’t run to any sort of timetable). Often bungalow owners will be able to organise a boat for you.

Travel Tips
  • Safe parking and clean toilets are available at Emua Wharf. Situated on the opposite side of the ring road, the toilets (in a small yellow building) cost 50 vatu a visit and overnight parking is 500 vatu.
  • Emua Road Market is worth checking out for fresh fruit, green coconuts and local food.

Getting around
There are a few rugged roads and a couple of vehicles on Nguna, but walking is the usual way to get around. Tell the boat driver where you are staying and you will be dropped at the point closest to your accommodation, minimising the amount of walking required. Boat trips to Utalangi on the north-western side of the island can be arranged, ask your bungalow owner for information. Trekking to the volcano will require a guide.

Electricity
Solar power and occasionally generators are used. You are able to charge your phone, camera or laptop at Eles School computer lab for 20 - 50 vatu a device.
 
Telecommunications
Although there is phone coverage with both the TVL and Digicel networks, reception can be unreliable. Internet is available at Eles School's computer lab at a cost of 100 vatu for 15 minutes - use of their computers is free. There is wifi at Mere-Sauwia.

Responsible Tourism
Nguna is a small island and waste management is an issue. The Shefa Tourism Office encourages visitors to take plastic bottles and other inorganic waste that they generate (including used disposable nappies) back to Port Vila with them where they can be disposed of properly.
Respecting Local Culture
  • The people on Nguna are used to tourists and very forgiving of inadvertent cultural transgressions. Even so, for women to wander through a village in bikinis or skimpy clothing is inappropriate. Taloa Village is particularly traditional and women should wear knee length dresses or skirts or with modest tops when visiting. T-shirts and board shorts make good "kloas blong swim" (swimwear).
  • If you want to go walking on the island seek information and guidance from your bungalow owner.
  • As a rule NiVanuatu love having their photos taken, especially the children, nonetheless, please ask permission.
 
Things to consider taking with you to an island bungalow 
  • Enough money in cash. There aren't any banks or ATMs.
  • A torch or solar light.
  • Snacks. There are a few stores in the villages, but stocks are very limited.
  • Bottled water for drinking.
  • Your choice of sundowner if you're not keen on kava. Tusker beer is available from Emma's store in Taloa Village.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Sunscreen and hat.
  • An umbrella (for rain and sun).
  • For women, a sarong to wear over shorts in the villages.
  • A book.
  • Anti malaria tablets (check with your doctor).
  • Basic first aid kit - i.e. plasters, Panadol, disinfectant.
  • Toiletries - soap, toothpaste, toilet paper.
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