Saleaula Lava Fields
Sale'aula Lava Fields
Remains of villages buried by the 1905 to 1911 eruption of Mount Matavanu, where the black lava still holds a church swallowed by flows and the so-called 'Virgin's Tomb.'
Matavanu erupted for several years, and its lava flows buried a number of villages on the north coast, leaving vast fields of black ropy lava. The most famous site is the ruin of the London Missionary Society church. Lava flowed into the building, and its walls and arched windows still stand within the rock. Nearby is the so-called 'Virgin's Tomb,' where legend says the lava flowed around it instead. Villagers manage the site and charge a small entry fee. A visit takes about half an hour. The lava surface is uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00; closed Sundays
Nearby sights
- Satoalepai Turtle Sanctuary
- Manase Beach
- Dwarf's Cave
- Mount Matavanu Crater
- Pe'ape'a Cave
- Lano Beach
- Sapapali'i & John Williams Monument
- Pulemelei Mound