Вануа-Лава, Active volcano in Banks Islands, Vanuatu

Vanua Lava, also called Suretamatai or Seretimat, is an active volcanic complex on the island of the same name in the Banks Islands. A young chain of volcanoes runs northeast to southwest, and two crater lakes lie on the slopes: one 300 m wide at 730 m in the north, another 500 m wide at 690 m in the southeast. The oldest volcanic structure is the Nger Kwan stratovolcano.

The first recorded eruption occurred in 1841, followed by further outbreaks over several decades. The most recently documented activity took place in the 1960s.

The volcano's alternative names, Suretamatai and Seret(i)mat, are used alongside Vanua Lava. Settlements sit on the south coast, and the nearest large village, Sola, lies 5 km southeast of the volcano's centre. More than 3,500 people live within 10 km of the centre.

The best time to visit is during the drier season when trails are more passable. The nearby village of Sola offers basic services and provides a practical base for exploration.

The youngest volcanic feature is the Nger Kwan stratovolcano, while the main caldera holds mostly old lavas, unlike Vanuatu's other volcanoes. Fumarole activity in July 1991 sent hot water down the slopes for up to 300 m, though the vents themselves measured about 50 °C.