The Best Travel Guide to Vanuatu

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Vanuatu

Vanuatu

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Overview

Vanuatu The guide was updated: 2022-12-09

There are few destinations that offer as much diversity, both scenically and culturally, as the archipelago of 83 islands that form Vanuatu, named the Planet’s Happiest Country. You will be struck by its tropical playgrounds featuring deserted beaches, lush dense forests, pristine waterfalls, rumbling volcanoes, and traditional villages. Vanuatu is the only place on earth where you can officially post your mail from an underwater post office and from the ash plain on the summit of a volcano.

Facts

Population:	314,464 (2021)
Currency:	Vanuatu Vatu (Vt)
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 111 Hospital: 112 Fire: 113 Marine: 114 Promedical: 115
Newspapers:	Daily Post Independent
Opening hours:	Shops are usually open from Mondays to Fridays and close for siesta between 11:30am and 1:30pm. Shops are open at their own discretion on Sundays.
Tourist information:	Vanuatu Tourism Office Rue Emile Mercet Street, Port Vila, Vanuatu Open Mon–Fri 8 am–5 pm. Sat 8 am–1 pm +678 22813

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Section in Vanuatu

Vanuatu’s incredible geographical and cultural diversities bestow on travelers a multitude of sightseeing options. The outer islands offer the opportunity to really immerse in the Vanuatu experience. Each one has its own unique culture and attractions — travelers will certainly enrich their knowledge about the world after the trip. All of the islands are surrounded by the South Pacific Ocean. Discover the nation of Vanuatu – and be mindful of its bewitching spell which will lure you back again and again.

Tanna Island

Tanna Island

On Tanna you can visit Mt Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes. This is truly an awesome “once in a lifetime” experience and should not be missed. Tanna is also rich in giant banyan trees, waterfalls, black sand beaches, horse riding, and fascinating tribal villages.

Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in the country and only an hour away by plane from Port Vila, is an unspoiled and popular place for snorkeling, diving, and even just for its relaxing deserted beaches. There are also many World War II sites such as Million Dollar Point, where the Americans dumped all their hardware into the ocean after the war, crashed B17 bombers, the destroyer USS "Tucker" and Santo’s most famous attraction – the 22 000 ton SS "President Coolidge" that sank and now is the world’s largest accessible wreck diving experience, attracting divers from all over the world.

Pentecost

Pentecost

On Pentecost you can witness the astounding Nagol ritual, where the islanders build a huge tower to perform land diving. This ritual has been practiced for centuries and celebrates the Yam harvest. It is said to be the forerunner of today’s bungee jumping.

Evergreen Mele Cascades

Evergreen Mele Cascades

This waterfall is a wonder of nature. Pack your lunchbox, take a hike in the area and take a day to relax and dive into the refreshingly cold stream.

Millenium Cave

Millenium Cave

Located on the South coast of Vanuatu, Lunganville presents its visitors with numerous magic places. Adventurers will find the Millenium Cave particularly appealing. You can explore the waterfalls world hidden between rocks with a guided tour and meet curious creatures and plants on your way. Note that it can get a little rough so wear good shoes and be aware that some physical fitness is required.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon

Find the perfect get-away and swim in the azure waters of the Blue Lagoon. You can relax in the lagoon, surrounded a natural environment you won't find anywhere else. It is a fun experience for the whole family, and undoubtedly a great place to provide you with some gorgeous holiday photos.

The Summit Gardens

The Summit Gardens

Get a new perspective and climb the summit of Vanuatu. Not only will you get a great panoramic view, but will also find many entertainment facilities, such as a spa and the unique Essential Oils Distillery. Visit the beautiful tropical gardens and don't forget to bring one of the many locally made beauty products.

Malekula Island

Malekula Island

Malekula is the second largest island on Vanuatu and is known for its strong tribal presence. The island is the most diverse, culturally and linguistically, with over thirty distinct languages spoken. The villagers are very friendly and will be more than happy to share their proud cultural heritage with visitors.

Ambrym Island

Ambrym Island

Ambrym, with its twin volcanoes, is considered the SPIRITUAL centre of Vanuatu. Ambrym offers many opportunities for trekking between villages to see the fiery volcanoes up close.

Mystery Island

Mystery Island

This small island is the ideal place for a quiet and relaxing day on the beach. Take your family, explore the surroundings and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Pacific.

Efate

Efate

Despite being the most populous island in Vanuatu, there is still plenty of natural attractions. Take time to visit some of the smaller offshore islands, where you can take part in snorkeling, diving, turtle feeding, or fishing. The National Museum of Vanuatu and the markets in Port Vila will immerse you in the city's history and culture.

Back To My Roots Festival

Back To My Roots Festival

During the annual Back to My Roots Festival, you can enjoy a whole week of activities. There are music performances, a pig killing ceremony, and, the highlight of the event, the mysterious Rom dance. It is held in August in the North part of the Ambrym island in August, known for its picturesque wood carvings.

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