Manafaru Island is located in the North-Western part of Vanuatu and is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. With its crystal clear waters, lush jungle, and white sand beaches, it’s easy to see why this island is a popular tourist destination. This paradise also has a rich history that dates back to the days when it was used by the Melanesian people as a place of exile.
Today, Manafaru Island is a popular spot for tourists and nature lovers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also a great place to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of exploring the surrounding islands. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or you want to explore all the exciting attractions that Vanuatu has to offer, Manafaru Island is definitely worth a visit!
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History
The history of Manafaru Island stretches back millennia. The first inhabitants of the island were the Polynesians, who arrived in the 12th century AD. During the 16th and 17th centuries, the island was visited by European explorers, including Francis Drake and Captain James Cook. The first Europeans to settle on Manafaru were the Dutch, who began cultivating the island in the late 17th century.
In 1885, New Zealand became a part of the British Empire, and its control of the islands expanded. In 1941, following Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, New Zealand declared war on Japan and invaded Manafaru. During World War II, Manafarus was a base for Allied forces including American troops and Australian troops. After World War II ended, New Zealand returned control of Manafaru to its original Dutch settlers. Today, Manafaru is a popular tourist destination and is home to many active businesses and residences.
Geography
Manafaru Island is located in the southernmost region of Vanuatu, about 120 kilometers from Port Vila. The island covers an area of approximately 600 square kilometers and has a population of around 7,500 people. Manafaru is made up of two main parts: the larger northern part and the smaller southern part. The central plateau is heavily forested, while the coasts are relatively undeveloped.
There are several inhabited villages on Man afaru, including Waikaremoana, which is the largest and most developed settlement on the island. The major sources of revenue for the islanders are agriculture and tourism.
Ecosystem
Manafaru is home to a variety of unique ecosystems. The island is dominated by rainforest, which covers more than two-thirds of the land area. The forest contains numerous tree species, including mahogany and silver palm. There are also several types of tropical moist lowland forests here, which is a type of ecosystem that’s found only in the southern hemisphere. There are also marshes and mangroves on the coastlines. In addition, the island is home to a number of species of seabirds, including boobies and Frigatebirds.
Population
The population of Manafaru is relatively diverse, with people from a number of different cultures living on the island. There are indigenous Melanesian people, who account for around 60% of the population. There are also descendants from Dutch settlers and other foreign visitors who have made contact with the island over the years. The majority of the inhabitants live in villages along Waikaremoana Bay. In addition, there is a small community located near Port Nicholson on the mainland.
Economy
The primary economic activity in Manafaru is agriculture. The island is mainly dependent on coconut plantations, which provide a significant portion of the GDP. Other important industries include tourism and forestry. There are also some small businesses that operate in the marketplaces in Waikaremoana and Port Nicholson.
Climate
The climate is warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 26°C. The rainy season occurs from June to November, while the dry season extends from December to May.
Culture and Religion
The Melanesian people of Manafaru have a rich culture that is based on animism. Religion plays an important role in the life of the islanders, with adherents worshipping a variety of gods and goddesses. There are also several churches located on the island, as well as a missionary station.
Languages
The primary language spoken on Manafaru is Melanesian, although Dutch is also widely understood.
Education
There is no formal education system on the island, although many children attend local schools. Children who want to pursue further education have to go to the mainland.
Politics
Manafaru is a self-governing territory, and its government is based on the British model. The head of government is the chief minister, who is responsible for administering the island’s affairs.
Government Services
The government services available to islanders include health care, police protection, and a few basic amenities.
Tourism
Manafaru is a beautiful and serene island located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. The island is known for its natural beauty, history, and its thriving tourism industry. The Manafaru Resort Area, which is made up of the neighboring islands of Favignana and Felicidad, is the perfect destination for those looking for a hassle-free getaway.
The island is home to limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush forests. There are plenty of activities available for visitors, including snorkeling, diving, swimming, hiking, biking, and kayaking. The food scene on Manafu is also something to note – with restaurants serving traditional Filipino dishes as well as international cuisine.
Overall, Manafu is a magical place that is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural wonders of the island or take advantage of its many attractions and activities, Manafu will surely fulfill your needs!
Hotels and Resorts List
Here is the list of hotels and resorts on Manafaru Island:
- The Rangiroa Resort – This 5-star resort offers magnificent views of the surrounding coral reefs and a variety of on-site activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, golfing, tennis and more.
- The Amana Resort – This 6-star property is situated on the northeast coast of Manafaru Island and features a range of facilities such as a spa, tennis courts, an award-winning restaurant, an expansive swimming pool, and more.
- The Anahita Resort – Another top-notch resort that offers luxury accommodation in a beautiful setting situated on the southwest coast of Manafaru Island. Facilities include a spa, tennis courts, a children’s play area, and more.
- The Mangareva Resort – This 4-star property is perfect for those who want to relax in peace and tranquility. It features lush gardens, white sand beaches, and excellent facilities including an on-site restaurant and pool.
Attractions
Here are some of the attractions you can explore while staying on Manafaru Island:
- The Rangiroa Resort – Explore the lush tropical gardens and enjoy luxury spa treatments at this top-notch resort.
- Amana Resort – Enjoy a range of activities such as swimming, golfing, fishing, tennis, and more at this luxurious property situated on the northeast coast of Manafaru Island.
- Mangareva Resort – Take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and enjoy stunning views of the white sand beaches from this top-notch resort situated on the southwest coast of Manafaru Island.
- Anahita Resort – Relax in comfort at this 4-star property with excellent facilities such as a spa, tennis courts, and an on-site restaurant.
Activities
Here are some of the activities you can enjoy while staying on Manafaru Island:
- C and snorkeling in beautiful waters near the Rangiroa Resort.
- Golfing at The Amana Resort or The Mangareva Resort.
- Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with fishing, swimming, and tennis options available at The Anahita Resort or one of the other resorts on Manafaru Island.
Transport
There are a few transport options available to get you around the island. You can take a boat from Rangiroa or Raiatea, fly into Taveuni airport, or rent a car from one of the many rental companies on the island.
Cuisine
The cuisine on Manafaru Island is diverse and includes traditional dishes as well as international favorites. Sample local delicacies such as Poisson cru, a fish dish with coconut milk, or malamalu, a type of flying fox that is roasted and served with banana slices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Manafaru Island is a beautiful and unique destination that is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway. The island has a variety of activities and attractions that can be enjoyed by all, making it the perfect destination for a family vacation, romantic retreat, or vacation with friends. Thanks for choosing Manafaru Island!
FAQs
1. What Are Some Of The Best Things To See And Do On Manafaru Island?
Some of the best things to see and do on Manafaru Island include diving, golfing, relaxing at the beach, snorkeling and swimming in beautiful waters near the Rangiroa Resort, fishing for tuna or mahimahi off The Amana Resort’s pier, enjoying a day at one of the many lush beaches around the island, or playing tennis at The Anahita Resort. There is something for everyone on Manafaru Island!
- How Many Days Should I Spend On Manafaru Island?
Manafaru Island is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed by all ages, so you can spend as much or as little time there as you want. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, we recommend staying for at least two days, but if you want to explore more of the island’s attractions and activities, five or six days would suffice.
- How Safe Is Manafaru Island?
From a safety perspective, Manafaru Island is one of the safest islands in the world. It has consistently ranked as one of the top travel destinations in Oceania and features some of the best security measures in place on an island. There are no mountains or jungles on Manafaru Island and there is little risk of getting lost, so you can rest assured that you’ll be safe and comfortable while on the island.
- Is There A Charge For Using Some Of The Attractions On Manafaru Island?
All of the resorts on Manafaru Island have their own amenities and facilities, including beaches, tennis courts, bars, and restaurants. There is no need to pay to use any of these facilities; all you need is your room key or passport ID number.
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