Cocoa Plantation Tour

Phoenix Plantation, Aore Island Vanuatu

BOOK A TOUR TO THE COCOA PLANTATION

Share

This Facebook widget is no longer supported.

Where History Meets Chocolate

Hidden in the tropical centre of Aore Island Vanuatu, the Phoenix Plantation Cocoa Tour combines heritage, flavour, and local storytelling. Just ten minutes from Aore Resort, this is one of the most genuine Santo tours you’ll find  a working farm where visitors walk through living history.


The Murray family purchased the land sight unseen and uncovered more than 1,000 heirloom cocoa trees left from an early-1900s French plantation. Beneath the vines they found traces of colonial agriculture and World War II activity  a direct link to Vanuatu’s past and a foundation for its sustainable future.


Meet Rex – The Man Behind the Revival

When the family arrived, the property was overgrown and silent. Enter Rex, a respected custom horticulturalist from Malo Island, brought in for his deep knowledge of island soil and tree health. Within four months, he transformed the property into a thriving plantation.

Rex now lives on-site, guiding visitors through each stage of the cocoa process  from pod to bean to bar and sharing insights that have earned him a following on social media. His passion and expertise are at the heart of Phoenix Plantation’s success and make this tour one of the most engaging experiences on Aore Island Vanuatu.


From Bean to Bar – A True Vanuatu Experience

This guided walk is hands-on. You’ll wander beneath towering Nabunga and cocoa trees, see fermentation boxes steaming in the sun, and watch the drying racks that give Vanuatu chocolate its distinctive flavour.

It’s an authentic Espiritu Santo tour, designed for travellers who want more than sightseeing they want connection. Every stop on the plantation shows how small farms sustain island communities and why Vanuatu cocoa is now recognised among the Pacific’s finest exports.

 Cocoa processing

Explore Vanuatu Tours Across Santo, Aore, and Beyond

Discover the best Vanuatu holidays with island tours, resorts, and authentic local experiences. From Aore Island getaways to Santo adventures, explore why Vanuatu is one of the South Pacific’s top travel destinations.

By Justine Murray August 26, 2025
Discover Santo’s highlights with a full-day tour to Champagne Beach, Port Olry & the Blue Holes. Swim, snorkel & explore Vanuatu’s most beautiful spots.
A view from an airplane window showing the wing, the tarmac, and an airport control tower under a cloudy blue sky.
By Justine Murray August 26, 2025
Arrive in Santo stress-free with reliable airport transfers from Pekoa. Modern air-con buses, pro drivers, and door-to-door service to Luganville & resorts.
A passenger car side-view mirror reflecting a commercial airplane taking off from a grassy runway.
By Justine Murray August 26, 2025
Start your holiday stress-free with reliable airport transfers in Vanuatu. Modern air-con buses, pro drivers, and door-to-door service from Bauerfield airport.
BOOK A TOUR on Santo, Malo or Aore Island

History in the Soil

The land under the cocoa trees holds layers of history. Massive nbunga trees of Aore stand as sentinels beside the old Ground House, an area once tied to Allied activity during World War II. These sites can be explored further on the linked
Aore WWII & Nabunga Tree Tour  a heritage walk through remnants of bunkers and war-era relics still visible today.

This connection between agriculture and history makes Phoenix Plantation unique: it’s both a working farm and an open-air museum of Vanuatu’s past.


Expand Your Adventure

Visitors often pair the Cocoa Plantation Tour with the Aore Boat & Snorkelling Circuit  a scenic trip around the island revealing coral gardens, hidden beaches, and coastal villages. The circuit provides stunning photo stops and direct links to local communities that supply Phoenix Plantation’s workforce.

For those seeking cultural immersion, the Aore Village Tour introduces you to daily island life, traditional cooking, and the spirit of “kastom” that defines Vanuatu’s warmth. Together, these experiences form a full-day itinerary that showcases everything Aore Island offers  nature, heritage, and hospitality.


Getting There from Espiritu Santo

Travellers based on Santo Island can easily join the tour. Phoenix Plantation provides boat transfers and pick-up arrangements from Luganville waterfront.

The tour starts at 8 AM, though departure times depend on tides and passenger numbers. Because transport is shared between small groups, schedules are confirmed once bookings close. Private boats are available for larger parties or combined-tour packages that include the WWII Walk, Village Tour, or Snorkelling Circuit.

Visitors should arrive early at the Santo jetty, bring water, sunscreen, and light tropical clothing.

Living in Vanuatu: Lifestyle, Costs, and Culture

Life in Vanuatu is slower, safer, and cleaner than many crowded tourist destinations. With fresh local food, a welcoming community, and direct links to Australia and New Zealand, the lifestyle here offers a balance of affordability and true island living.

Vanuatu
By Justine Murray April 13, 2026
Sea level rise in Vanuatu: studies show 4–6 mm yearly increase, while government highlights risks to secure climate funding. Facts vs politics
A beach house  with trees and a body of water in the background on Aore Island Vanuatu
By Justine Murray October 15, 2025
Discover the weather on Aore Island, Vanuatu from sunny tropical days to gentle wet seasons. Learn when to visit, what to pack, and how the island changes.
Three women in colorful dresses tend a garden outdoors, one carrying a basket, the others with a hoe and broom.
By Justine Murray October 10, 2025
Old Aore Resorts still rely on diesel and bore water a symbol of outdated tourism. See how Fridom Farm are shaping a new, self-sufficient future.
READ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION

Tour Details

  • Duration: ≈ 2 - 3 hours
  • Fitness: Medium (walking tour)
  • Price: Vt 7 500 per person
  • Includes: Guided walk, tasting session, refreshments
  • Bring: Hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, water bottle
  • Location: Phoenix Plantation, Aore Island Vanuatu (20 min from Aore Resort)


Why Visitors Love It

Guests describe this as the most authentic of all Aore Island activities. It’s interactive, educational, and deeply human  you’re not watching a show, you’re stepping into real island life. Between Rex’s storytelling, the scent of fermenting cocoa, and the backdrop of Nabunga trees, you’ll understand why this experience consistently earns five-star reviews on Google Maps.

Every visitor contributes to the island economy, helping Phoenix Plantation train young workers and replant heritage cocoa varieties for future generations.


Book Your Tour

The Cocoa Plantation Tour operates daily with limited group numbers.
📅 Book online at
www.vanuatuisland.org or via WhatsApp +678 7342101 for real-time availability.


📌Combine with the Nabunga Tree Walk, Village Tour, or Boat & Snorkelling Circuit for a complete Aore Island Vanuatu experience that connects culture, history, and the sea.

Watch videos on YouTube

VANUATU ISLAND YOUTUBE
This Facebook widget is no longer supported.

Contact Us

Latest Articles on Vanuatu

Stay up to date with the newest insights on Vanuatu property, business, and lifestyle. From affordable land tips to investment guides, these articles keep you informed and ready to take action.

By Justine Murray October 22, 2024
"Exploring Aore Island: Unmatched Investment Potential in Pristine Paradise"
A field of plants with a view of the ocean in the background.
By Justine Murray July 9, 2024
Promoting Vanuatu's Biodiversity Through Sustainable Exportation
A tropical beach with palm trees and the ocean in the background
June 2, 2024
DISCOVER VANUATU Vanuatu is a beautiful tropical paradise located in the South Pacific , made up of 83 islands. It is known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture . With its growing popularity as a tourist destination and a hub for investment opportunities, many people are interested in buying land in Vanuatu . COMMON QUESTIONS! ARE TOURIST ABLE TO BUY LAND? In general, tourists are allowed to purchase land in Vanuatu. However, individuals who hold a valid residence visa are eligible to work in the country. This means that if you are planning to invest in real estate in Vanuatu, you will not need to obtain a residence visa first. RESIDENCE VISAS Obtaining a residence visa in Vanuatu is relatively straightforward, but it does require some paperwork and documentation. You will need to provide proof of your identity, income, and intentions for residing in the country. Once you have been granted a residence visa, you will be able to freely work and live on the property in Vanuatu for longer than 3 months at a time. It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a residence visa may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit to Vanuatu. It is always best to consult with an immigration lawyer or a local real estate agent for specific information tailored to your individual circumstances. One of the key reasons why a residence visa is a good investment when buying land in Vanuatu is to ensure that the country's real estate market remains stable and that foreign investments are made responsibly. By requiring individuals to first obtain a residence visa, the government of Vanuatu can better regulate the buying and selling of land to protect the interests of its citizens and investors. However, a visa is not required. If you are considering buying land in Vanuatu, it is important to do thorough research and seek professional advice to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements. Investing in real estate in a foreign country is a significant decision, and it is crucial to understand the laws and regulations that govern property ownership in Vanuatu. In addition to obtaining a residence visa, there are other factors to consider when buying land in Vanuatu. These may include the location, size, and type of property you are interested in, as well as the local market conditions and legal requirements for purchasing land. It is also important to consider the potential benefits and risks of investing in real estate in Vanuatu. While the country offers a relaxed lifestyle and a favorable climate for tourism and development, there may be challenges associated with property ownership, such as fluctuating property values. Despite the requirements for obtaining a residence visa to buy land in Vanuatu, many investors and expatriates find the process to be relatively straightforward and worth the effort. With proper planning and guidance, purchasing land in Vanuatu can be a rewarding investment opportunity that offers both financial and lifestyle benefits. In conclusion, if you are interested in buying land in Vanuatu, you need to meet the necessary requirements and seeking professional advice, you can navigate the process of purchasing real estate in Vanuatu successfully. Remember to do your research, consider your options carefully, and take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and legal transaction.
VIEW LATEST LAND LISTINGS
By Justine Murray October 22, 2024
"Exploring Aore Island: Unmatched Investment Potential in Pristine Paradise"
A thatched hut is surrounded by a clear bubble
By Noelyn Timothy July 10, 2024
WHAT IS A REAL ESTATE BUBBLE? A real estate bubble occurs when the prices of real estate properties are driven up to unsustainable levels due to speculation, excessive demand, and unrealistic expectations of future price increases. This can lead to a period of rapid price growth followed by a sudden and sharp decline in property values. Real estate bubbles can have significant negative effects on the economy, financial markets, and individuals who have invested in property during the bubble period. COUNTRIES IN A REAL ESTATE BUBBLE IN 2024 It is difficult to predict with certainty which countries will be in a real estate bubble in 2024. However, some countries that have been identified as potentially at risk of a real estate bubble include: Canada: The Canadian housing market has been experiencing rapid price growth in recent years, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Sweden: Sweden has also seen significant increases in housing prices, leading some observers to raise concerns about a potentially overheated market. Australia: The Australian housing market has been experiencing strong price growth, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. United Kingdom: The UK housing market has been strong in recent years, particularly in London and the southeast, raising concerns about a potential bubble. It is important to note that these are just a few examples of countries that have been identified as potentially at risk of a real estate bubble, and the situation may change in the future. Investors and policymakers should monitor these markets closely for signs of overheating and take appropriate measures to address any potential risks. According to reliable real estate sources, Vanuatu is considered a great place to invest in real estate due to its stable and steadily growing market. Unlike other popular real estate markets that are experiencing a bubble, Vanuatu has seen consistent growth without the risk of a sudden downturn. The country's political stability, attractive tax incentives for investors, and growing tourism industry have all contributed to the increasing demand for property in Vanuatu. Additionally, the low cost of living and beautiful natural surroundings make it a desirable destination for both investors and expats looking to purchase a second home or vacation property. Overall, Vanuatu offers a unique opportunity for investors to diversify their portfolio in a market that is both stable and promising for long-term growth. With a supportive government and an expanding economy, investing in real estate in Vanuatu is considered a wise decision by industry experts.
A man in a hat is holding a yellow fruit in his hands.
By Justine Murray July 10, 2024
Do you have Passion for Farming?
Show More