Sitting peacefully in the South Pacific, is the fascinating tropical paradise of Vanuatu, which includes a group of over 80 islands. Extremely diverse, with around 100 different languages spoken and an ancient culture that is still proudly evident in daily life through “kastom” (village life), Vanuatu is too often earmarked as a ‘flop and drop’ destination. Many travellers never make it past the alluring capital of Port Vila, with its postcard perfect beaches, turquoise lagoons and indulgent resorts.
The rewards are immense for those who travel deeper into the country, as it is in the outer islands that the true soul of the country begins to reveal itself. Here you can truly go off the grid and experience kastom (village life) and the warm hospitality of Vanuautu’s Ni-Van people, far from the crowds. Travelling further will allow you to discover the sheer beauty of Vanuatu’s landscape, from volcanic islands to empty and pristine white sand beaches that will feel a world away from the busy capital.
The Maskelyne Islands, (often referred to as the Maskelyne’s,) are remote cluster of islands accessed by flying from Port Vila to the tiny airport of Lamap, in South Malekula. A window seat is a must for your flight as the view of the islands, sprinkled in the aqua sea is exceptional.
After driving to the coast, you travel by boat from the mainland of Malekula to the Maskelyne’s, where you will step into a true laid-back tropical paradise with thatched huts, swaying palms, outrageously beautiful beaches and local fishing boats making up the idyllic scenery. Vehicle free and peaceful, you will adjust quickly to the relaxed island pace.
Get Festive
Experiencing a local festival is one of the most fun and immersive ways to get to know a community and understand what is important to them. Cultural festivals are frequent occurrences in Vanuatu, and in the outer islands, an unmissable local event is the Maskelyne Canoe Festival. Starting with a canoe parade that showcases the incredible skills involved in the creation of the locally carved canoes, it continues to a canoe race, open for all the village to compete in.
You will see incredible carved masks being painted, witness the carving of canoes and some tribal wars and mask dances. You may even have the privilege of witnessing a circumcision. The warm and welcoming environment make it the perfect place to learn about and enjoy this incredible culture.
Swim with Dugongs
A highlight not to be missed whilst in the Maskelyne’s, is the chance to swim with the gentlest of giants, the adorable dugong. The Maskelyne’s are a global hotspot for these shy and graceful creatures (often referred to as sea cows) and swimming with them is an extra special ocean experience because they are curious creatures, who show an interest in swimmers and are comfortable and relaxed in their company. Interest in the dugongs has helped the island communities restrict local hunting and turn towards environmentally responsible tourism to support dugong conservation instead, and guidelines are in place to ensure any interactions are a positive experience for the wonderful creatures.
Experience Kastom
Central to the incredible spirit of Vanuatu is kastom, the cultural tradition that has been passed from generation to generation, and which once governed every aspect of village life including economics, spiritual beliefs, art, performance, and magic. The island of Uluveo in the Maskelyne’s has several villages where you can see authentic kastom in action, with ceremonies still being performed in the same way that they have been for hundreds of years.
Seeing a cultural performance in this environment is spectacular – be consumed by the island chants, the swish of grass skirts, and the vibrating thump of their feet on the earth. The passion of the Ni-Van’s for their culture is infectious, and you will quickly realise what makes the country so special – it’s amazing people!
Explore the Ocean by Outrigger Canoe
Ringed by incredible reefs teaming with colourful tropical marine life, the sapphire waters of the Maskelyne’s are home to a tangle of mangrove estuaries, and giant clam gardens. The best way to experience this ocean wonderland is travelling as the locals do – by traditional outrigger canoe. Glide effortlessly across the sea, exploring isolated beaches and secluded islets. Dive from your canoe to into the warm and clear waters to snorkel pristine reefs, keeping an eye out for turtles, dolphins and of course, dugongs.
Keep It Simple
One of the best things about the Maskelyne’s is that they are remote enough that you are forced to leave the world behind and adjust your clock to island time. Not only will internet rarely be available, but electricity and hot water can also be in short supply. Accommodation on the islands is simple – imagine thatched island bungalows on the edge of a lagoon or on the beach, equipped with mattresses, mosquito nets and shared bathroom facilities. While basic, the location is idyllic, and it is the perfect opportunity to have a proper kastom experience. Embrace this incredible chance to sink into island life.
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This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
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Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
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Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
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