John Frum Day 2027
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.
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.
4 Days / 3 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! 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.
Day 1: Fly from Port Vila to Tanna, afternoon tour to visit west coast highlights including world’s largest banyan tree. Accommodation at the award-winning Whitegrass Resort
Day 2: Full day tour including Yakel Kastom Village, the scenic south coast, Port Resolution, Yasur Volcano at dusk. Accommodation and meals at a volcano bungalow
Day 3: Full day experiencing the color and intrigue of John Frum Day- an unforgettable day of celebrations! Late transfer to Whitegrass Resort
Day 4: Relax at the resort before afternoon flight back to Port Vila.
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 13 February 2027 in Port Vila, and finishes on 16 February in Port Vila.
Per Person VUV Price incl. VAT:
155,000 VT per adult twin share (6-12 persons. surcharge of 23,000 VT if only 3-5 persons)
30,000 VT per person Single Supplement (single rooms cannot be guaranteed at Volcano Bungalow).
Tour Inclusions:
• Vanuatu Ecotours escort throughout, plus local guides
• Airfares to and from Tanna with Air Vanuatu
• All vehicle transfers in Tanna
• Meals on Tanna (Day 2- all meals: Day 3- breakfast and lunch: Day 4- breakfast)
• Ocean View Fare at Whitegrass Resort (2 nights), Volcano bungalow accommodation (1 night)
• All landowner fees and local entry and tour fees
• VAT (sales tax).