Volcanoes of Vanuatu

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Photos from Vanuatu

Vanuatu May 2009: colors (55 Images)

In May 2009, lava levels have risen inside the conduits of Ambrym volcano, feeding strong activity of spattering and low lava fountaining inside the vents of Benbow crater. Favoured by exceptional weather conditions, we were able to descend into the crater and have unusually clear views of the inner crater walls, the vents as well its spectacular activity. Pictures were taken during our recent <link 1465>expedition to Vanuatu</link> on May 24, 2009.

Vanuatu May 2009: the crater of Benbow (Ambrym volcano) (29 Images)

When we arrived on Ambrym, we got news of a new lava lake inside one of the vents in Marum crater. Despite quite bad weather, we managed to get to the crater rim and catch a good glimpses of the boiling lava lake, around 20 m wide, beneath our feet.

Vanuatu May 2009: excursion to Marum crater (16 Images)

Vanuatu May 2009: Ambrym - aerials (31 Images)

Vanuatu May 2009: Yasur volcano (46 Images)

Volcanoes of Vanuatu

Map and location of Vanuatu

The Vanuatu archipelago in the South Pacific is not only one of the most unspoilt and intact places of the earth, but also hosts some of the most spectacular volcanoes.
The Vanuatu archipelago contains many active volcanoes including Ambae, Ambrym, Lopevi, and Yasur, the Stromboli counterpart of the Mediterranean. Vanuatu's island arc is the result of a north-south subduction zone streching from the Matthew and Hunter islands in the south to Tinakula volcano in the Solomon Islands in the north.
Its friendly inhabitants are strongly rooted in their extotic traditional culture and welcome visitors warmheartedly as almost nowhere else. Vanutatu's tropical islands are not only the perfect location for a relaxing tropical holiday, but also offer the possibility for adventurous expeditions to some of the most active and spectacular volcanoes of the world, including the frequently active lava lakes of Ambrym and the famous, constantly erupting volcano Yasur on the Island of Tanna.