The Man Bush Walk

Unua to Lawa (S.W. Bay)

This hike is featured in Lonely Planet.  There are a couple of options after you reach Labongbong, the one we took was a hilly hike to Lawa.  There is also a longer, flatter road that takes two days to reach Wintua.  It is best to hike with local guides.

Man Bush Walk

 

Day One:

Unua to Melken

 

9.32 km

Elevation 94 meters

 

Time

Walking:         2 hr. 15 min.

Resting:          30 min.

Total                2 hr. 45 min.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Easy walk.  The road is good and clear.  The village is currently working to widen the road so that trucks can pass.  You cross the Paunkumu 12 times, so a lot of river crossings.  Most crossings are shallow, rarely over thigh high.  Heavy rains could make the road unpassable.

 

Accomodation:

Stayed at the Melken woman's club.  Simple.  Mats were placed on the floor for bedding, and food was included.  Only 100 vatu per person.

 

Day Two:

Melken to Labongbong

 

17.39 km

Elevation 840 meters (finish at 540 m)

 

Time

Walking:         6 hrs.

Resting:          2 hrs.

Total               8 hrs.

 

 

Notes:

Difficult.  One very steep climb that gains over 500 meters of elevation very quickly.  There are some river crossings early on, and also areas with soft mud.  There is a fresh water source after the big climb.

 

Day Three:

Labongbong to Lawa

 

15.19 km

 

Time

Walking:         5 hr. 30 min.

Resting:          1 hr.

Total                6 hr. 30 min.

 

 

Notes:

Moderate to Difficult.  Lots of mud.  Three climbs, including one steep one after you cross the Matanoi river.  Gains 300 meters of elevation in less than a kilometer.  There is a large waterfall at the river, which is amazing.  After Lawa we chartered a boat (1,500 vatu) and slept in a small village near Wintua.

Warning: Traveling in the Malekula bush can be extremely dangerous and lead to serious injury or death. This website is only intended as an aid and cannot guarantee safety. While we walked the routes described, outside influences can change the trail at anytime, and no trail guide is completely accurate. Hikers must accept and judge for themselves the dangers posed by each trip they choose to undertake. By using this site you accept the risk and sole responsibility for your safety and the safety of those you affect. Please use all the available resources to you before participating and educate yourself about the environment, wilderness safety, and first aid.