Jungle-cloaked islands, rich kastom (traditional) cultures, blockbuster scuba diving, and a remarkably accessible active volcano are just a small part of the allure of Vanuatu, an 80-plus island archipelago made for adventure.
With only a fraction of visitors to Vanuatu venturing beyond the cruise ship port and family-friendly resorts of the capital, Port Vila (“Vila” to locals), this sparsely developed South Pacific nation offers intrepid travelers the now-rare opportunity to experience natural attractions and cultural experiences untouched by mass tourism. Slip on your swimwear and dive in!
When Should I Go to Vanuatu?
Vanuatu’s dry season, from late April to September, is the most popular time to visit. However, with just 45,000 tourist arrivals per year, even the main island of Efate doesn’t feel crowded during the high season. Budget travelers may uncover more accommodation deals in the October-to-March low (wet) season, but consider that trade-offs include higher humidity and an increased risk of tropical storms and cyclones. Increased rainfall during this season can impact underwater visibility in some destinations; nonetheless, diving is generally good year-round across the archipelago.
Most of Vanuatu’s festivals are held during the dry season. For instance, visit Pentecost Island on a Saturday between April and June to take in the ancient naghol (land diving) ritual that inspired modern bungee jumping. The Maskelyne Islands host the two-day Maskelyne Canoe Race and Arts Festival in July, while Ambrym Island celebrates the Lylywy Cultural Festival, showcasing the unique Rom dance, also in July.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Vanuatu?
For travelers seeking an easy family holiday or budget-friendly getaway, a week in the Port Vila area should suffice. However, for those keen to venture beyond Efate, plan for around nine days, plus international flights, for a relaxed two-island itinerary—especially if you plan on diving. To visit additional islands, consider spending two to three weeks.
Is It Easy to Get In and Around Vanuatu?
The main international gateway to Vanuatu is Bauerfield International Airport on Efate, located just 5km (0.6 miles) outside of Port Vila. The domestic terminal is adjacent to the international terminal. Airlines with direct flights to Vanuatu include Aircalin, Fiji Airways, Solomon Airlines, and Virgin Australia.
Taxis service the airport route, and minibuses operate in Port Vila without a fixed schedule or routes—simply tell the driver your destination. Similarly, buses run in Luganville on Espiritu Santo Island, northeast Malekula Island, and Tanna Island. Central Port Vila and Luganville can easily be explored on foot.
Traveling between some of Vanuatu’s larger islands is possible by ferry, but journeys can be long and rough. Consequently, most visitors prefer taking domestic flights instead.
Top Things to Do in Vanuatu
- Strap on a dive tank and explore the reefs and wrecks of Efate, Espiritu Santo, Tanna, and beyond. The immense wreck of the SS President Coolidge off Espiritu Santo is widely considered to be one of the world’s best wreck dives, while Tanna’s twin sets of blue holes and ethereal Blue Cave are also accessible to snorkelers.
- Perch on the rim of Tanna’s Yasur volcano at sunset as lava spews up from the crater below.
- Explore Efate’s collection of dreamy natural pools and waterfalls, including the Blue Lagoon, Mele Cascades, and Lololima Falls, or dive into the idyllic blue holes of Espiritu Santo.
- Travel to Pentecost Island to watch “land divers” jump off wooden towers up to 30m (100ft) high, with tree vines wrapped around their ankles.
- Experience the thrill of swimming alongside wild dugongs in Gapsard Bay on south Malekula Island.
- Marvel at the UNESCO-listed tradition of sand-drawing, observable at the National Museum of Vanuatu in Port Vila.
How Much Money Do I Need for Vanuatu?
Costs can vary widely, but a cup of kava can be purchased for as little as VT100 (less than US$1). However, expect prices for accommodations, restaurant meals, and scuba diving to be similar to those in more developed Oceania nations such as Australia. Additionally, factor in domestic flight costs for multi-island itineraries.
Cash remains king throughout Vanuatu, especially beyond the resorts of Port Vila, so be sure to stock up with plenty of vatu at the airport or in Port Vila before traveling to outer islands, where ATMs and currency exchange services are scarce. For domestic flights, a provincial departure tax of VT200 must be paid at the airport prior to departure, as it is not included in ticket prices. Tipping is not customary.
Average costs include:
- Basic room for two: VT5000–8000
- Double room at a resort: VT17,000–24,000
- Lunch at a local market: VT500–600
- Main meal at a restaurant: VT3000–4500
- Bottle of beer at a bar: VT500
- Scuba dive: VT10,000
- Bus ride in Port Vila: VT150
- Taxi ride in Port Vila: VT500
- Taxi from international airport to Port Vila: VT2000
Pack a Well-Stocked First Aid Kit
Pharmacies and medical facilities are available in Port Vila, but services are limited beyond the capital. Therefore, it pays to be prepared to treat minor travel health issues. Bring a stash of adhesive bandages, wound dressings, antiseptic wipes, and antibiotic ointment for cuts and scrapes. Consult a travel health doctor regarding any additional medications—broad-spectrum antibiotics may be advised to combat traveler’s diarrhea or urinary tract infections.
Embrace Local Cuisine
Traditional ni-Vanuatu cuisine centers around fish and root vegetables. Dining at local markets is more affordable than at international restaurants, where flavors and cooking techniques from around the world blend with locally sourced seafood, tropical fruits, and Vanuatu beef.
Go Easy on the Kava
Kava, a beverage made from the root of the kava (Piper methysticum) plant, is known for its muscle-relaxing and sedative effects. Widely consumed for both ceremonial and recreational purposes across the Pacific, Vanuatu kava is considered particularly potent. Therefore, if you plan to indulge, keep in mind that one coconut-shell cup may be sufficient to induce relaxation.
Pick Up a Local SIM at the Airport
Internet access can be unreliable or non-existent beyond the resorts of Efate. If you require consistent online connectivity during your trip, it’s prudent to acquire a local SIM at the kiosk in the arrivals hall of the international airport. The Vodafone network typically offers broader coverage in the outer islands.
Choose Souvenirs Wisely
While seashell jewelry and other products are commonplace at Vanuatu’s markets, be mindful of marine ecosystems. The best practice is to leave seashells in their natural environment. Additionally, research Vanuatu’s endangered tree species before purchasing wood carvings. Check kava import regulations in your onward destination due to potential restrictions.
Lean into Island Time
In Vanuatu, things don’t happen in a hurry. Keep a positive attitude, go with the flow, and discover the joy of relaxation.
Avoid Eating Big Fish
Ciguatera fish poisoning, a foodborne illness caused by consuming reef fish contaminated with ciguatoxins, poses a small risk in Vanuatu. To minimize this risk, opt to avoid eating large fish (over 2.7 kg/6 lbs) and consult your server when ordering.
Pack Lightweight Clothing
While it may be useful to have a sweater for breezy evenings and long pants for protection against bugs on walking trails, Vanuatu’s warm climate typically calls for light, comfortable clothing.
Is Vanuatu Safe?
Crimes against travelers in Vanuatu are rare, and locals are generally very welcoming and hospitable. Therefore, visitors can explore this beautiful destination with peace of mind.
