Summary: A series of smaller cascades, culminating in the tallest waterfall with a drop of about 35m. A walking trail (entry fee applies) follows the Mele Cascades up to the top falls.

A popular attraction in Vanuata, the Mele Cascades are formed by the river flowing over a series of limestone terraces. The tallest waterfall is about 35m high, with a natural pool and swimming hole at it’s base. Around the falls is thick jungle and moss-covered rocks, with the warm climate of Vanuatu making a swim here very tempting!

Mele Cascades
Mele Cascades

The water flow can vary significantly from year-to-year; most photos are from 2018, while the photo below from 2010 show a lot more water cascading down the main waterfall – and a lot more mist.

Mele Cascades

A hiking path goes past many smaller cascades and natural pools where you can swim, before reaching the top waterfall. The path is often covered by the flowing water, so expect to get wet feet!

Getting to Mele Cascades

The cascades are about a 15min drive from Port Vila: you can do it as part of a tour, or take a taxi or shared bus to get there. Avoid days when a cruise ship is in town, and if you can, rather than doing a tour go early or late to avoid the crowds. An entry fee (2,000 VT or about USD$18 per person in 2019) is payable. There’s a cafe, picnic area and an artificial beach near the start of the walk.

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