Vanuatu
Vanuatu, an archipelago of 83 idyllic islands in the South Pacific, offers travellers a pristine blend of natural beauty, rich Melanesian culture, and thrilling adventure. Located around 1,750 kilometers east of Australia, this Pacific Island paradise is a dream destination for beach lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and eco-adventurers alike.
Discover Vanuatu
From the capital city of Port Vila on Efate Island to the outer islands of Tanna, Espiritu Santo, and Pentecost, Vanuatu presents a diverse mix of experiences. This travel guide to Vanuatu showcases the country’s most iconic attractions—from tropical beaches and crystal-clear lagoons to vibrant local markets and sacred tribal ceremonies. Whether you’re diving into the blue holes of Espiritu Santo or witnessing Mount Yasur erupt on Tanna Island, Vanuatu offers authentic, unforgettable encounters.
Things to do in Vanuatu
- Volcano trekking: Hike to the rim of Mount Yasur on Tanna Island—one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes.
- Scuba diving & Snorkelling: Explore vibrant coral reefs and famous dive sites like the SS President Coolidge wreck near Espiritu Santo.
- Land diving: Experience the origin of modern bungee jumping with the traditional land diving ritual on Pentecost Island.
- Cultural village tours: Visit traditional villages to witness authentic Melanesian dance, crafts, and daily life.
- Beach escapes: Relax on white-sand beaches such as Champagne Beach, Port Resolution, and Hideaway Island.
- Blue hole adventures: Swim in the surreal, freshwater blue holes hidden in the rainforest of Espiritu Santo.
- Local cuisine: Enjoy Vanuatu’s tropical flavours with dishes featuring coconut, seafood, and the famous local root drink—kava.
Travel tips for visiting Vanuatu
- Best time to visit: The dry season from May to October is ideal for travel, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer storms.
- Currency: The local currency is the Vatu (VUV). ATMs are available in Port Vila, but less common on remote islands.
- Language: Bislama, English, and French are the official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Transportation: Inter-island travel is typically by small planes or boats. Efate has a good road network for self-driving.
- Respect the local customs: Always ask before taking photos of locals or sacred places. Dress modestly in villages.
- Health & Safety: Tap water isn’t always safe to drink—bottled water is recommended. Mosquito repellent is essential.
Why choose Vanuatu
Vanuatu remains one of the South Pacific’s best-kept secrets. Unlike more commercialised island destinations, it offers raw, untouched beauty and deeply rooted cultural traditions. The islands deliver a unique combination of adventure—like diving, trekking, and volcano watching—and authentic cultural immersion through community-run tours and village homestays.
For travellers seeking a destination that is off the beaten track, environmentally rich, and welcoming, Vanuatu provides a truly transformative experience. Whether it’s your first trip to the Pacific or part of a broader Oceania journey, this travel guide to Vanuatu will help you uncover a world that’s as unforgettable as it is unspoiled.
Know before you go
CAPITAL: Port Vila (on Efate)
LANGUAGE: Bislama, English and French
COUNTRY CODE: VU
ELECTRICITY: 230V, 50Hz
To power any electrical item an international adapter or a three pin plug is required
POPULATION: 307,145
CURRENCY: Vatu
DIALLING CODE: +678
TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC +11
Vanuatu Climate
The country has a tropical climate, characterised by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average daily temperature ranges between 75°F (24°C) and 86°F (30°C). The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to October, when temperatures are more comfortable, and rainfall is minimal.
During this period, the weather is cooler, with pleasant breezes and less humidity. The wet season, from November to April, brings higher temperatures and the risk of tropical storms or cyclones.
Safety advice for Vanuatu
The government has confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in the capital city Port Vila and the provinces of Shefa, Sanma, Tafea and Torba. You should follow the advice of local authorities and take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism across the islands, attacks can’t be ruled out.
Information provided by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.fco.gov.uk 
Top attractions in Vanuatu
Vanuatu in depth
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