Vanuatu Travel Information

Vanuatu is a tropical paradise located in the South Pacific, and is home to breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure activities that are second to none. From exploring ancient cultural sites to diving in crystal-clear waters, here are the top 10 things to do in Vanuatu.

1. Visit a Traditional Village

Experience the traditional Ni-Vanuatu culture by visiting a local village. Learn about their customs, beliefs, and way of life, and witness traditional dances, music, and festivals.

2. Dive into Blue Holes

Discover the underwater world of Vanuatu by diving in the blue holes. These underwater sinkholes are home to a rich variety of marine life and are a must-visit for any avid diver.

3. Explore Natural Wonders

Take a stroll through Vanuatu's lush jungles and discover its stunning natural wonders, including waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic craters.

4. Visit Mele Cascades

Located in the heart of the jungle, Mele Cascades is a stunning waterfall and swimming hole. Enjoy a refreshing dip and soak in the scenic beauty.

5. Visit Millesime Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Vanuatu at the Millesime Museum. Explore the exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the islands, including tribal art, weapons, and traditional artifacts.

6. Visit Ekasup Cultural Village

Ekasup Cultural Village is a traditional village that offers a glimpse into the life and culture of the Ni-Vanuatu people. Learn about traditional dance, music, and agriculture and sample local cuisine.

7. Explore the markets

Visit the bustling markets in Port Vila and experience the vibrant and colorful local life. Browse the stalls selling locally-grown produce, crafts, and souvenirs.

8. Take a Snorkeling Trip

Snorkeling in Vanuatu's crystal-clear waters is a must-do activity. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and discover a world of exotic marine life.

9. Visit Mount Yasur

Climb to the top of Mount Yasur and witness one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes. Admire the stunning views and feel the heat of the erupting lava.

10. Visit the Pekoa Waterfall

Take a scenic hike to the Pekoa Waterfall and witness the stunning beauty of Vanuatu's lush jungles and tropical waterfalls. Take a dip in the cool waters and relax in the lush surroundings.

Climate

Vanuatu is located in the tropical South Pacific and has a warm, tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 25-30°C (77-86°F) throughout the year. The island nation experiences two distinct seasons, the wet season from November to April and the dry season from May to October.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is sunny and warm, and the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes is low. This is also the peak tourist season, and the best time to experience the island's festivals, markets, and cultural events. However, if you're looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, the wet season from November to April is an ideal time to visit. The lush jungle, waterfalls, and rivers are in full flow, making it a perfect time for nature lovers.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Vanuatu offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, there's something for everyone in this island nation.

Luxury Resorts

For those looking for a more upscale experience, Vanuatu has a number of luxury resorts that offer top-notch amenities and breathtaking views. These resorts are often set in lush tropical surroundings and offer a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and spa services.

Guesthouses and Bungalows

Guesthouses and bungalows are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers. They are simple, yet comfortable and offer a more authentic experience of Vanuatu's culture and way of life. These accommodations are often run by local families and offer a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

Self-Catering Accommodations

Self-catering accommodations are also available in Vanuatu, ranging from apartments to villas. These options are great for families or groups traveling together and offer the convenience of having your own kitchen and living space.

Camping and Glamping

For those looking for a more adventurous and eco-friendly option, camping and glamping are also available in Vanuatu. These accommodations offer a unique and intimate experience of the island's natural beauty and are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting around Vanuatu can be a challenge, especially if you're traveling to remote areas of the island nation. However, there are several transportation options available to help visitors explore this beautiful country.

Air Transportation

The easiest and most convenient way to travel within Vanuatu is by air. Air Vanuatu is the national airline, offering regular flights to the country's main islands. Visitors can also charter a private plane or helicopter for a more scenic and flexible travel experience.

Sea Transportation

Ferries and boats are another option for getting around Vanuatu, especially for those traveling to the more remote islands. There are regular ferry services between the main islands, and visitors can also book a private boat tour for a more personalized experience.

Land Transportation

Land transportation in Vanuatu is limited, with only a few roads connecting the main islands. Taxis and rental cars are available, but visitors are advised to take caution when driving as roads can be narrow and winding. Buses and trucks are also available, but services are limited and can be unpredictable.

Bicycle and Motorbike Rentals

For those looking for a more adventurous mode of transportation, bicycles and motorbikes can be rented in Vanuatu. This is a great way to explore the island at your own pace and get up close and personal with the local culture and landscape.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.