Volcano Tour

There are several dormant and active volcanoes in East New Britain.

Mt Tavurvur and Mt Vulcan last erupted in 1994 and destroyed the beautiful township of Rabaul, once considered the “Jewel of the South Pacific” including the airport.  Rabaul was covered in a dense cloak of volcanic ash.  Advanced planning and a comprehensive evacuation programme kept the death toll to zero.  It is reported one resident died as a result of a heart attack! 

Since its eruption in 1994, Mt Vulcan has remained dormant. Mt Tavurvur continues to belch vast quantities of ash covering what remains of Rabaul (and its residents), in a deep, clogging coating of fine ash – powder fine when dry and a glutinous mass when wet.

Depending upon the prevailing winds, that ash, blown thousands of metres into the atmosphere travels vast distances dumping its toxic harvest upon the adjoining islands.  After approximately 10 years, the ash is transformed into highly fertile black soil from which grows cocoa, coconut trees and succulent fruit and vegetables for which the Gazelle Peninsula is famous.

Mt Tavurvur is situated across the bay from Rapopo Plantation Resort. Viewing an eruption after sunset is an awe inspiring sight.

Tours of Rabaul and its environs are available.  Allow at least one day.