Discover the Best Islands to Visit in Vanuatu

Vanuatu may be frequently overlooked in favor of its more famous South Pacific neighbor, Fiji; however, it offers an array of attractions worth exploring. With its warm waters, vibrant Melanesian culture, active volcanoes, and stunning blue swimming holes, there are countless ways to embrace this nation’s laid-back island vibes.

Moreover, with over 80 idyllic islands spread across a total area of 12,189 sq km (4706 sq miles), visitors are often spoilt for choice. Although many islands can be challenging to reach, this only adds to the sense of adventure. Most travelers choose to base themselves on Efate, home to the capital city, Port Vila, and venture to outlying islands to experience life with lokal (traditional) tribes.

While it’s feasible to travel between Vanuatu’s islands by boat, it can be time-consuming. Consequently, most visitors opt for planes, which connect to major islands daily, including flights from the national airline, Air Vanuatu, and Unity Airlines.

1. Efate

Best island for market shopping

As you embark on your journey to Efate, settle into the relaxed island lifestyle. Home to Port Vila, Efate is the most populated island and the primary entry point for visitors. It is renowned for its lively markets, providing a perfect opportunity to spend your Vatu (Vanuatu’s currency) while supporting the local economy.

Along the harbor front, visit the shaded marketplace, locally known as Mama’s Market. Here, vibrant floral dresses adorn local women selling handmade crafts, from earrings to sturdy handwoven baskets. A short stroll leads you to the bustling Port Vila Central Markets, where vendors showcase an array of seasonal tropical fruits and vegetables, including many beloved varieties of yams.

Local tips include arriving early for the freshest produce and bringing your own cloth bag to carry your purchases, as plastic bags are not encouraged.

2. Espiritu Santo

Best place to swim in natural springs

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu, offers ideal conditions for sun-soaked beach holidays. It caters exceptionally well to families, featuring a range of accommodations, from resorts to beachfront bungalows.

Known for its diving opportunities and pristine beaches, Santo is also famous for its enchanting blue holes. These natural springs, filtered through underground limestone caverns, boast a stunning hue due to their depth, purity, and mineral content.

The Nanda Blue Hole is particularly distinguishing for snorkeling, where vibrant fish swim beneath you, mimicking a reef experience. After a refreshing plunge, relax on the timber deck and sip on a chilled Tusker beer from a family-run café nearby. For an adventurous route, paddle to the Matevulu Blue Hole via kayak, and experience the distinct allure of Riri Blue Hole via outrigger canoe.

Local advice recommends visiting early to avoid crowds and don’t forget your snorkel gear to dive into these delightful waterholes.

3. Tanna

Best island to experience traditional village life

Famous as the filming location for the Oscar-nominated film “Tanna,” this island carries an enchanting aura. Tanna is ideal for adventure lovers, featuring diverse diving sites and unique cultural experiences. It’s accessible with a short flight from Port Vila, making it an ideal destination.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture of Tanna by exploring traditional villages like Yakel Village, guided by accredited local guides. Here, you can meet locals dressed in traditional attire and engage respectfully with the community.

Don’t miss the chance to witness Mount Yasur, one of the most accessible active volcanoes globally, especially vibrant during the night when lava shows its reds and oranges.

Remember not to take any sacred rocks as souvenirs during your visit.

4. Ambrym

Best island for hiking

While Tanna’s Mt Yasur is notable, Ambrym boasts multiple active craters, making it a hiker’s paradise. A one-hour flight north of Port Vila takes you to this volcanic wonderland, where the trek to Mt Benbow and Mt Marum is a must for avid adventurers.

Although challenges are present while climbing—1160m (3086ft) to Mt Benbow and 1270m (4167ft) to Mt Marum—the reward is stunning views of active geology. Don’t forget to partake in a few shells of kava after your trek, but pace yourself as Vanuatu’s kava is notably potent.

Due to its volcanic nature, expect robust snorkeling experiences, but it’s best to engage local accredited guides for safety and insight.

5. Malekula

Best place to see dugongs

Noted for its elusive dugongs, Vanuatu offers some of the best opportunities to spot these gentle sea creatures. Head to southern Malekula, part of the Maskelynes archipelago, which is known for healthy seagrass, a favorite food source for dugongs.

Consider joining a guided tour, such as the Maskelynes Discovery tour, to increase your chances of seeing dugongs in their natural habitat. When encountering these majestic creatures, maintain a respectful distance to admire them without causing stress.

Travelers are encouraged to visit from June to August during the dugong season at high tide for optimal sightings.

6. Pentecost

Best place to see a daring ancient tradition

Known for its extraordinary land diving ritual, Pentecost Island showcases a unique blend of creativity and bravery inherent in the ni-Vanuatu culture. This tradition is practiced as a rite of passage for men during the yam season.

To witness this breathtaking spectacle, plan your visit on a Saturday between April and June when the jumps occur. Leap from towers that can reach up to 30m (98ft) high, and soak in the rich cultural significance behind the practice.

When visiting, consider booking with an accredited tour operator to ensure traditional landowners receive proper compensation.