Fire Walking & Kastom Magic

OVERVIEW

Be enthralled by watching fire walking and magic demonstrations that reflect the culture of Vanuatu. After a brief boat ride to the larger island of Aneityum, you will be greeted with a customary dance. As entertaining as that welcome may be, what you witness next will be absolutely spellbinding. It all falls under the banner of kastom, a pidgin word for the traditional customs of Vanuatu that cover every aspect of authentic Melanesian life, which is faithfully passed down through the generations. Magic is part of kastom as you will see by watching a mesmerizing demonstration involving coconuts. Similarly, the national drink of kava is kastom. This intoxicating concoction is made with pepper root and was once reserved solely for chieftains and priests. It will be served from a communal bowl. The show-stopper will be the fire-walking demonstration, a common rite of passage for young men that is considered the ultimate test of courage and faith.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch fire walkers slowly make their way across a bed of fiery red-hot stones.
• See a demonstration of kastom magic and a kava ceremony.
• Gain an understanding of kastom, which is essential to every aspect of traditional life.
• Take selfies with the fire walkers if you like.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.