Vanuatu

Vanuatu

Vanuatu is the South Pacific as it once was - 80+ islands where traditional kastom culture thrives, you can watch an active volcano erupt at night on Tanna, and witness land diving (the origin of bungee jumping) on Pentecost. World-class diving includes the SS President Coolidge wreck, while blue holes and pristine reefs await.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay10 days
Budget$80/day
Mid-range$180/day
Luxury$400/day

Known For

vanuatusouth_pacificvolcanomount_yasurtannaland_divingpentecostport_vilamelanesiakastomtraditional_culturedivingsnorkelingss_president_coolidgeblue_holesadventureoff_the_beaten_pathbungee_origintropical_islandsespiritu_santo

🇻🇺 Country Information: Vanuatu

CapitalPort Vila
CurrencyVanuatu vatu (VT)
LanguageBislama, English, French
Phone Code+678
Electricity220V (Type C, G, I)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

\* Tipping is generally not expected or customary, but a small gesture for exceptional service is appreciated

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are available in major towns but less so in rural areas
  • Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and resorts, but cash is preferred elsewhere
  • Bringing some cash (AUD, USD, or VUV) is advisable
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of people
  • Respect local customs and traditions, particularly regarding sacred sites or ceremonies
  • Chewing gum in public is not restricted

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Homosexuality is not illegal, but there are no specific laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights or recognizing same-sex relationships.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, and drug offenses can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

\* Kava is a traditional drink with cultural significance; consume it responsibly and respectfully in Nakamals (kava bars)

Common Phrases

NoNogat (no-gaht)
YesYes (yes)
HelloHalo (hah-lo)
PleasePlis (plees)
GoodbyeGudbai (good-bye)
Thank youTank yu (tank yoo)

Climate

Tropical climate. Wet season November-April with cyclone risk (especially Jan-Mar). Dry season May-October is ideal with less humidity. Temperatures 22-30°C year-round. Tanna and southern islands slightly cooler. Espiritu Santo can be wetter.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Lap Lap must_try

Vanuatu's national dish - grated root vegetables (taro, yam, manioc) mixed with coconut cream and baked in an earth oven (lovo) with meat or fish wrap

Coconut Crab must_try

Giant land crabs that climb coconut trees and feed on coconuts, giving sweet, rich meat. Increasingly rare and expensive but a delicacy when available

Fresh Seafood must_try

Lobster, reef fish, octopus fresh from the Pacific. Simply prepared with coconut milk or grilled. Outstanding quality at waterfront restaurants.

Kava must_try

The traditional drink - pounded root of pepper plant mixed with water. Mildly narcotic, relaxing effect. Social custom. Tastes earthy but experience i

Tropical Fruits must_try

Mangoes, papayas, pamplemousse (grapefruit), passionfruit, and coconut fresh from the source. Port Vila market has the best selection.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Land Diving (Naghol) Tours tour_or_activity
Book 1-6 months in advance

Only April-June, Saturdays only. Limited flights to Pentecost. Very popular.

Inter-island Flights Transport
Book 2-8 weeks in advance

Limited flights to outer islands. Small planes fill up, especially to Tanna.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Outer Island Accommodation Accommodation
Book 2-8 weeks in advance

Limited rooms on Tanna, Santo, Pentecost. Popular spots book up.

Fun Facts

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