Vanuatu

1. What are the best places to visit in Vanuatu?
Port Vila, the capital on Efate, offers the vibrant Vila Market and Mele Cascades, a stunning waterfall. Visit Mount Yasur on Tanna, an active volcano you can hike to at sunset. Explore Espiritu Santo for the Millennium Cave, a massive cave with bats and underground rivers, and Champagne Beach, known for its white sand. On Pentecost, witness the land diving ritual (April–June), a precursor to bungee jumping. The Blue Holes on Santo are perfect for swimming in crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss the underwater post office off Hideaway Island near Port Vila, where you can send waterproof postcards.

2. Is it safe to travel to Vanuatu?
As of March 2025, Vanuatu is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in Port Vila and rural areas. Petty theft can occur in markets, so keep valuables secure. Natural risks include earthquakes and cyclones (November–April)—monitor weather updates. Tap water isn’t safe outside major hotels; use bottled water. Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue are present—use repellent and nets. Medical facilities are limited, with the main hospital in Port Vila, so bring medications and travel insurance. Check advisories for volcanic activity, especially near Mount Yasur, and follow local guides’ advice.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Vanuatu?
Citizens of the U.S., EU, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 30 days with a passport valid for 6 months, proof of onward travel, and accommodation details. A visitor permit is issued on arrival. Extensions up to 4 months are possible at the Immigration Office in Port Vila ($50). Other nationalities may need a visa, obtainable through a Vanuatu embassy or consulate ($40–$100), or online via the Immigration Department. Ensure you have a yellow fever certificate if coming from an affected area. Confirm requirements before travel, as policies can change.

4. What is the best time to visit Vanuatu?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, with temperatures of 22°C–28°C (72°F–82°F) and lower humidity, ideal for diving in Espiritu Santo or hiking Mount Yasur. The wet season (November to April) brings heavy rain and a higher cyclone risk, though it’s less crowded and lushly green. April to June is perfect for the land diving ritual on Pentecost. July and August are peak months for cultural festivals like the Back to My Roots Festival on Ambrym, showcasing magic and dance. Coastal areas are warm year-round, but visibility for diving is best in the dry season.

5. How do I get to Vanuatu?
Fly into Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila. Air Vanuatu and Fiji Airways offer flights from Nadi, Fiji (1.5 hours, $300–$600 round trip), and Brisbane, Australia (3 hours, $400–$800). Flights from the U.S. or Europe typically connect through Australia or Fiji ($1,000–$1,800, 12+ hours). Domestic flights with Air Vanuatu connect Port Vila to Espiritu Santo or Tanna ($100–$200 one-way, 45 minutes). Ferries between islands like Efate and Santo take 12–24 hours ($30–$60). Taxis in Port Vila cost $5–$10 per ride, or use local minibuses for $1–$2. Flights can be delayed, so plan extra time.

6. What are traditional Vanuatu foods to try?
Try laplap, the national dish, made of grated yam or taro baked with coconut cream and meat or fish in banana leaves. Tuluk is a variation with pork wrapped in laplap. Fresh fish, like mahi-mahi, is grilled or served raw with coconut milk, called poisson cru. Sample simboro, a dumpling of taro or manioc with coconut cream. For a drink, join a kava session—kava is a mildly sedative root drink served in nakamals (kava bars). On Tanna, try Tanna coffee, grown locally. Meals are often communal, especially during festivals, paired with fresh coconut water.

7. What are the best cultural experiences in Vanuatu?
Witness the land diving ritual on Pentecost (April–June), where men jump from wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles. Attend the Back to My Roots Festival on Ambrym (August) for traditional magic, dances, and sand drawings. Join a kava ceremony in a nakamal in Port Vila to experience local hospitality. Visit a custom village on Tanna to see the John Frum cargo cult ceremonies, blending Christianity and traditional beliefs. On Malekula, explore the Small Nambas tribe’s cultural practices, including mask-making. Watch a Rom dance on Ambrym, a masked performance with drums and chants.

8. What are the best outdoor activities in Vanuatu?
Hike to the crater of Mount Yasur on Tanna to see glowing lava ($80–$120/tour). Dive in Espiritu Santo to explore the SS President Coolidge, a WWII shipwreck ($100–$150/dive). Swim in the Blue Holes on Santo, natural pools with turquoise water ($10 entry). Kayak around Hideaway Island near Port Vila to snorkel at the underwater post office ($20–$40/day). Trek through the Millennium Cave on Santo, a challenging adventure with river crossings ($50–$80 with a guide). Surf at Pango Point near Port Vila (best waves November–April). Visit Mele Cascades on Efate for a refreshing swim ($15 entry).

9. What should I know about Vanuatu culture before visiting?
Ni-Vanuatu are friendly, greeting with “Halo” (hello) in Bislama, widely spoken alongside English and French. Family and kastom (customs) are central—respect village protocols, like asking permission before entering or taking photos. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees, especially in villages. Sundays are for church; many activities pause. Remove shoes before entering homes. Tipping isn’t expected, but small gifts like food are appreciated. Be prepared for a relaxed pace—schedules are flexible. Kava is a social ritual; accept it if offered, but sip slowly as it’s strong. Avoid discussing politics or land disputes, as they’re sensitive topics.

10. What are the accommodation options in Vanuatu?
In Port Vila, stay at resorts like Warwick Le Lagon ($150–$300/night) or budget options like Coconut Palms Resort ($60–$100/night). On Espiritu Santo, the Beachfront Resort ($120–$200/night) is popular for divers, while Aore Island Resort ($100–$180/night) offers overwater bungalows. On Tanna, White Grass Ocean Resort ($130–$250/night) is near Mount Yasur, or try Tanna Evergreen Resort ($80–$150/night). Village homestays on Malekula ($30–$50/night, meals included) provide a cultural experience. Book early, especially during festivals or diving season, as options are limited in remote areas, and Wi-Fi may be spotty.