A vacation in Vanuatu would be incomplete without stopping by Pentecost Island, home to the genuine bungee-jumping experience. Pentecost has lush forests, and very little modern amenities, and so it is ideal for adventurous tourists who prefer to rough it up and truly get to know the rich local culture. Pentecost is found north of the national capital Port Vila. The island was discovered by European explorers on Whit Sunday (Pentecost); that is how it got its name. Christian missionaries have partly influenced the locals, though the age-old customs remain intact, as proved by the traditional garments still worn by the natives.
Probably the highlight of the island is the N'gol (land-diving), a ceremony believed to ensure a good yam harvest the following year. Every April Bunlap men cheat death by jumping head first from tall wooden towers with only springy vines tied to their ankles to save them. Tourists may not participate in this; though many pay to witness the locals do this sacred rite on land-diving sites such as Bay Homo, located west of Bunlap.
Those who prefer the experience of the thrill of Pentecost's heights can go to Mt. Vetmar, the island's second highest mountain. A hike will take only a day to go up, enjoy the stunning view, and go back down. One can cut a path to the mountain through the village of Hotwata, famous for its hot springs. Another treat for water-lovers is the Waterfall Falls, where the nearest settlement is of the same name. The water comes from the high mountain and tumbles down in one fell swoop, and cascades down to smaller pools. The limestone formations by the falls serve as the walkway to get around, and to the nearby springs. One can also pay a worthwhile visit to the neighboring villages, where it is traditional to enjoy the intoxicating kava drink with the locals.
