Togo Chasm

Togo Chasm is reached by walking out across a field of jagged raised coral, black and sharp and completely bare, to the edge of a hole in the ground with a wooden ladder dropping into it, and at the bottom is a floor of white sand with coconut palms growing out of it, entirely enclosed by rock walls. The contrast between the coral desert above and the sand oasis below is the whole point.

The landscape

• The coral pinnacle field - the jagged bare rock crossed to reach the chasm.
• The ladder descent - the wooden ladder dropping into the hole.
• The sand floor - white sand with coconut palms at the bottom.
• The enclosure - rock walls closing the chasm on every side.

When to go

May to October is the dry season and the practical window. Cyclone season runs November to April. The coral walk is unbearable in midday heat.

Before you go

The coral crossing is sharp, exposed and hot, and sturdy shoes are essential. The ladder is steep and not for anyone unsteady. There is no shade on the approach and no facilities.

Nearby

Hakupu is northwest, and Vaikona is north.