About Us

Island Experience

Port Vatu in Ambrym, Vanuatu is a small, self-sustaining village. It is home to friendly, generous people and has a range of activities to offer adventurous traveler.

John, Host and Chief Guide

John Tasso grew up in Port Vatu and considers the ash plains of the great volcanos his second home. He is one of the most experienced volcano guides in Ambrym, and has made the trek to Mt. Marum hundreds of times. Since 2006, he has guided tours for people all over the world, including celebrities Brad Pitt and Gandolf. John speaks Bislama (the traditional language), French, and English.
His home is near the guesthouse, where he lives where he lives with his wife, Sessie, four children, and five nephews.

 

Testimonials

“Incredible island”

A very big thank you to you John and your people for giving me the opportunity to see your incredible island, your beautiful people, and your wonderful village. I'm sad to leave because you have all made me feel very welcome and comfortable but on a positive note I am content because I am determined to come back and walk with you and your brother Simon and your cousin Samson again. Preben, Nyoongar People, Australia

“Like seeing the heart of our planet beating”

Thank you so much for a great adventure. To gaze into the volcanic core of Marum is like seeing the heart of our planet beating - truly awesome sight. I could only recommend John as an expert guide. Andrew, Australia

“Difficult but well worth it”

A lovely bungalow where John went out of his way to make sure we were all comfortable. The volcano walk was great, if difficult at times, but well worth every moment. One day was not enough, if you can spend two days on the volcano, do it! A great experience in a great place! Richard, Carmen, Leone, Justine, and Tim, Australia

“Excellent guide”

John was an excellent guide and he made sure we got the most out of our tour. The food has been excellent and we have been really well looked after. I will certainly recommend John and his guest house to everyone! Liz and Mark, England

“Unforgettable holiday”

Thank you, John and Sessie for being such great hosts! We felt very welcome and looked after here, especially after our great hike from Endu to Port Vatu.  Everything was great here and we will certainly spread the word. Thank you also to James and Dick who picked us up at the volcano camp and safely guided us through the creek, over slippery rocks, muddy rainforest, and were very patient with us.  We saw a lot, we learned a lot, and this will be an unforgettable holiday for us! Matlu and Michael, Germany  

“Once in a lifetime experience”

My time here was truly amazing, from visiting the volcanos and seeing the lava lake to staying and spending time with John and the beautiful people.  John is an exceptional man with many talents.  Thank you John for your patience of me and view of this great island.  I have stayed in 5 star hotels, but the service and hospitality on my visit excels any of those hotels.  To future tourists: Relax, you are in great hands - everyone in the village is polite, helpful, and beautiful.  Once in a lifetime experience. Richard, Australia

“We made some wonderful friends”

We have made some wonderful friends here. We are sad to go! The volcanos are truly a once in a lifetime experience.  To see the earth boiling was amazing. More than that, thank you John and Sessie for make us feel so welcome and giving us a home away from home! Catrina and Scotty, Australia, May 2013