Eco-friendly bungalows to open on Mosso Island
February 24, 2025 11:14 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Ezra Toara & Kiranga Taufa.
An eco-friendly bungalow project is set to open by the end of this year on Mosso Island, located northwest of Efate.
The project, currently under construction, is owned by Bethel Wells, a former teacher from Santo with 25 years of experience in the tourism industry.
Despite his background in agriculture, Wells recognized the significant role tourism plays in Vanuatu’s economy. “Tourism is a business for everyone, and I see potential in contributing to this sector,” he said.
Wells secured a piece of land from his family on Mosso Island and has been developing a small bungalow to support the tourism industry in Port Vila and across Vanuatu.
His vision is to construct the bungalow using local materials available on the land, such as stones and wood, combined with natangura leaves and sand to create an environmentally friendly retreat.
“I want to ensure that the bungalow blends naturally with its surroundings,” Wells explained. “Many visitors have already expressed their admiration for the project, though it is not yet complete. I am hopeful that by the end of this year, it will be ready for an official opening.”
Wells chose Mosso Island because of its peaceful atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking tranquility away from Efate. “The island is offshore, yet easily accessible. If the roads are in good condition, it takes less than 30 minutes to drive from Port Vila to the departure point for Mosso,” he said.
With ongoing developments around Havannah Harbour, Wells believes his bungalow will complement other tourism projects by providing accommodation options for visitors. The project will create employment opportunities for nearby village residents.
Beyond accommodations, Wells is committed to sustainability. He is developing a turtle sanctuary on the island to protect marine life while also incorporating an agricultural component using hydroponic farming.
“The system will be fed by leftover tilapia waste, creating a sustainable cycle—feeding vegetables with fish waste and using the greens to feed the fish again,” he explained.
His initiative aims to showcase eco-friendly practices where tourism and environmental conservation coexist. “Tourists won’t just see nature—they’ll witness how we can extract resources sustainably while also giving back,” Wells added.
Wells is also collaborating with his niece, who operates the well-known Blue Hole tourism site in Santo. “Tourism runs in the family—we always exchange ideas. My niece constantly innovates, and when we need advice, we turn to each other,” he shared.
The Mosso Island Bungalows will be marketed as part of a package deal, allowing tourists to visit both Port Vila and Mosso, while also promoting the Blue Hole experience in Santo.
The bungalow is expected to open in December this year, with tourist bookings available from December 2025 to January 2026.
In addition to accommodations, visitors will have access to various activities, including fishing charters and guided tours to observe turtle nesting sites.
Although advertising has yet to begin, Wells plans to launch a Facebook page and website closer to the project’s completion. “Once the work is about two months from completion, I will start promoting it online so tourists can learn about the destination,” he said.
To facilitate travel, Wells will also offer rental cars and bus transfers. Early bookings will come with special perks, including complimentary boat rides to the bungalows and free land transportation.
With its sustainable approach and commitment to environmental conservation, the Mosso Island bungalow project is set to become a unique and eco-conscious addition to Vanuatu’s tourism landscape.
