Just minutes from the island’s main urban hub, this haven of clear pools and waterfalls hidden within the jungle makes a perfect daytrip.
Soak in fresh, clean water and watch fish swimming at beautiful Mele Cascades. See spectacular plunging waterfalls and venture higher to discover one of the island’s most breathtaking lookout spots with excellent views.
Wander through a dense tropical forest until you break into a gorgeous area of shallow pools and trickling streams. Admire fish that shine and sparkle in the rays of sunlight or get straight into your bathing suit and plunge into the water. Dive and splash with friends or just lie back and rest in this majestic environment.
Continue along a rocky path using the help of guide ropes along a steep cliff. Stop regularly to douse yourself in pools at small plateaus higher and higher up the mountainside. Look for rapids and naturally eroded slides to fly down into the crystalline liquid below.
Walk higher still to reach the beautiful waterfall that sets this idyllic place in motion. Marvel as the river meets a sheer cliff face and tumbles 115 feet (35 metres) onto the flat rocky shelf below. Stand beneath the waterfall and feel the power of this natural wonder as spray crashes down before releasing shimmering mist high into the treetop canopy above.
Climb to the very top of the trail. From here, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the island. Peer across the dense woodlands around you toward the coast. Here, local residents spend their days relaxing. Gaze out to sea where ships cruise slowly from one port to the next.
Mele Cascades is a 15-minute drive northwest of Port Vila. Take the bus that goes regularly from the town centre to the pools or book yourself onto a guided tour. These often include a complimentary souvenir as well as fruit and refreshment during your visit. Bring suitable walking shoes that you won’t mind getting wet.
