John Frum Day 2023
The John Frum Movement, a ‘cargo-cult’ that emerged in the shadow of WW2, holds an annual day of celebrations, and you, as a guest of Vanuatu Ecotours, are invited to take part in this mesmerising and truly unforgettable event.
6 Days / 5 Nights
“John Frum is a mythic figure associated with cargo cults on the island of Tanna in Vanuatu. He is often depicted as an American World War II serviceman who will bring wealth and prosperity to the people if they follow him” (Wikipedia)
Established in the 1930s, the John Frum Movement is still going strong in 2023. Very few outsiders have been privileged to attend the annual celebrations in February every year, but as a guest of Vanuatu Ecotours, you are invited. This is an all-inclusive small group tour of 12 persons maximum, and is fully escorted by one of the Vanuatu Ecotours team, to ensure you make the most of this special experience.
Witness the raising of the American flag, and the drills of John Frum soldiers with their wooden or bamboo “rifles” on their shoulders, the scarlet tips sharpened to represent bloody bayonets, followed by traditional dancing.
Tanna is a must-visit island on your Vanuatu itinerary, and this package combines the John Frum celebrations with the best that Tanna has to offer.
Day 1: Meet & escort briefing in Port Vila
Day 2: Fly to Tanna, west coast beaches & sunsets, visit world’s largest banyan tree
Day 3: Cross-island safari, explore Port Resolution, ascend Yasur volcano, sleep in a treehouse (if you dare!)
Day 4: John Frum Day – an unforgettable day of celebrations!
Day 5: Return to Port Vila, optional river kayak to refresh and reflect
Day 6: tour ends.
Full tour information, including ‘What to Bring’ and ‘Health and Safety Information’ is provided at the time of booking. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Dates & Pricing
Tour starts on 12 February 2023 in Port Vila, and finishes on 17 February in Port Vila.
Per Person VUV Price incl. VAT: (indicative, final price tbc)
154,660 VT per adult twin share (4-12 pax, surcharge applies if only 2-3 pax total on tour).
125,280 VT per child (12 years and under).
18,060 VT per person Single Supplement (Moorings Hotel, single rooms cannot be guaranteed on Tanna).
Optional River Kayak on Day 5: 7000 VT per person, 5000 VT per child.
Tour Inclusions:
• Vanuatu Ecotours escort throughout, plus local guides
• Discounted airfares to and from Tanna with Air Vanuatu
• All vehicle transfers in Port Vila and Tanna
• All meals on Tanna, breakfasts in Port Vila
• Village bungalow accommodation on Tanna and Standard King Room at Moorings Hotel in Port Vila (upgrade to Harbourside King Room available)
• All landowner fees and local entry and tour fees
• VAT (sales tax).