Pentecost, which gets its name from the day on which it was first sighted by Europeans, is a mountainous, tropical island in the South Pacific republic of Vanuatu. There are no towns on Pentecost - most of the islanders live in small villages and grow their own food in small gardens. Parts of Pentecost remain relatively untouched by Western influences, and local traditions are strong.

This area is the home of the nanggol (land diving) - the original bungee jump - which is known throughout the world. The ceremony, taking place between April and June, celebrates the first yam crop emerging. From tall towers constructed of saplings and branches held together with forest vines, the men leap forward and down to touch the earth below.

Visiting Pentecost

Pentecost Island is for the adventurous traveller. Don't come if you expect 5-star luxury: infrastructure and tourist facilities are very limited. However, if you are prepared to rough it a little, you will be rewarded with a real island feeling which comes from genuine cultural experiences with friendly and welcoming local people.

Languages

Pentecost has five native languages, in addition to Bislama (Vanuatu Pidgin English), which is the lingua franca. Schools on the island teach in either English or French, which are both widely spoken. A project is currently underway to produce a short dictionary and phrase book of all eight of these languages.
Click here for more information.

Articles and diaries from Pentecost

Map of Pentecost

Bislama - Vanuatu's national language

Visiting Vanuatu - frequently asked questions

Get the Lonely Planet guide to Vanuatu

Where to stay on Pentecost

Bangaware Bunaglows
Nambwarangiut

Noda Guesthouse
Waterfall Village

Sunrise Guesthouse
Ranwas

Trevor's Guesthouse
Poinkros

Web site by Andrew Gray