About
Pentecost is an island in Vanuatu, a country of islands in the South Pacific. It is remote, and reaching it takes some effort, which is part of what makes a visit here feel distinct from a typical island holiday.
The island is best known for its land diving ceremonies. Men leap from wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles, and the vines are what stop them just above the ground. These dives are the tradition that inspired modern bungee jumping, and seeing them performed in their original setting is the reason many visitors make the journey.
What a visit offers
- Authentic cultural experiences rooted in the island's own traditions
- The land diving ceremonies, which are seasonal and tied to local customs
- A quieter, rural pace away from the busier centres of Vanuatu
Because Pentecost is remote, visitors should plan ahead for transport and accommodation, and allow time for travel within Vanuatu. Staying a few days gives more room to take in the ceremonies and the surrounding landscape without rushing.
Planning your trip
Pentecost suits travellers who want to step beyond resort life and learn about a living cultural tradition. Approach it with respect for local customs, ask before taking photographs of ceremonies, and be ready for a slower, more modest style of travel than you may be used to.