vanuatu tourism visa

Update May 10, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Vanuatu - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Vanuatu.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Vanuatu.

If you decide to travel to Vanuatu:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Vanuatu.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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Quick Facts

1 page per stamp.

Not required for stays under 30 days.

All travelers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. No other vaccinations are currently required.

Amounts over VUV 1,000,000 (USD 10,000) in local or foreign currency equivalent must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy port moresby.

The Embassy maintains no permanent presence in Vanuatu. Harbour City Road, Konedobu Port Moresby, NCD, 121 Papua New Guinea Telephone : +(675) 308-9100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(675) 7200-9439 Fax: +(675) 321-1593 Email:   [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens need a valid passport, onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds in order to enter Vanuatu. Tourist visas are not required for stays of up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you may apply for a standard residence permit or for an extension of stay for up to 120 days at the Immigration Office. You should do so before your initial 30-day period expires. Please contact the Principal Immigration Officer, Immigration Department, at (+678) 22354.

For further information on entry requirements, particularly if you are planning to enter on a private sailing vessel, please visit the  Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu to the United Nations website , 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400B, New York, NY 10017, Telephone: (+1) 212 661 4303; fax: (+1) 212 422 3427, (+1) 212 661 5544. The Mission may also be contacted via e-mail at [email protected] .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Vanuatu.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Public Safety:  Civil disorder in Vanuatu is relatively rare; however, you should avoid public demonstrations and/or political rallies if they occur.

Crime:  Although violent crime is relatively rare in Vanuatu, there is always a risk that you could be a victim of theft, burglary, sexual harassment, or sexual assault. Take reasonable precautions to avoid undue risk, especially in tourist areas. Women should avoid going out alone at night or to isolated locations. The Embassy has also received some reports of ATM or credit card number theft after a card was used in Vanuatu. While this does not appear to be widespread, travelers are advised to monitor their accounts after using their ATM or credit cards in Vanuatu for any unauthorized activity.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea for assistance at (+675) 308 2100.

Report crimes to the local police at 1111 or non-emergency (+678) 2222 in Port Vila and (+678) 36222 in Santo, and contact the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea at (+675) 308 2100. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights homes
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Customs:  Vanuatu customs authorities may enforce strict regulations on importing or exporting items such as firearms, certain prescription drugs, wooden artifacts, exotic animals, food items, and sexually explicit material. Other products may be subject to quarantine. For specific information regarding customs requirements, contact the  Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu  to the United Nations, 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400B, New York, NY 10017, Telephone: (212) 661-4303; fax: (212) 422-3427, (212) 661-5544.

Natural Disasters:  The United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) has consistently ranked Vanuatu number one on the World Risk Index for its many different types of natural disasters and its difficulties in recovering from them.  Visitors need to be aware of disasters which can occur at any time.

Cyclones:  Cyclones can occur suddenly in Vanuatu. Cyclone season usually lasts from November to April, and severe flooding, landslides, and disruptions to services may occur. Local media and hotels will convey cyclone alerts issued by local authorities.

Volcanoes/Earthquakes:  Vanuatu is subject to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. If you plan to visit volcanic areas, contact the Department of Geology and Mines at (677) 22423 or the  Vanuatu Tourism Office  at [email protected] prior to traveling to areas where volcanic activity may occur. Detailed information about earthquakes is available from the  National Earthquake Information Center of the United States Geological Survey . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities. Visit the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards page to obtain current climate advisories, including volcano activity levels All of Ambae Island and parts of Ambrym Island have been evacuated due to high and on-going volcanic activity. Avoid areas being evacuated.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers : Same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Vanuatu. However, there are no known incidents of the prosecution, targeting, or harassment of consenting adults. Vanuatu is a conservative country, and we recommend that you avoid public displays of affection. See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and the Vanuatu Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : There is no law specifically prohibiting discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. There are no special programs to assist persons with disabilities and no legislation mandating access to buildings, information, and communications. In practice, most buildings in Vanuatu are not accessible to persons with disabilities, and disabled persons often rely on assistance from friends and family.

Recreational Diving:  Diving in Vanuatu has the potential to be dangerous. We suggest the following tips for visitors who plan to dive while in Vanuatu:

• Verify that your dive operator is currently certified through one of the international diving associations (PADI, NAUI, BSAC, CMAS, etc.).
• Ensure that rental equipment is in good working condition, with up-to-date inspection stamps.
• Make sure your equipment fits properly.
• Postpone or cancel diving activity if any equipment is faulty.
• Try to remain in pairs or in a group that includes a dive guide.
• Determine your level of training before engaging in deep water or wreck dives.
• Confirm that dive operators have adequate onsite emergency equipment and diver-recall systems.
• Know that the nearest hyperbaric chamber might be hours away, or require a plane flight. There is one hyperbaric facility in Port Vila, Vanuatu, far from some of the more remote dive sites. Due to the high costs for decompression services and associated emergency transportation, divers are strongly advised to obtain adequate medical evacuation and diver’s insurance.
• Please report any unsafe conditions or diving practices to either the certifying diving association or the local authorities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Local customary law is observed in Vanuatu especially in rural areas. Disputes based in customary law are generally resolved through a compensation-based settlement mediated by law enforcement or law government officials.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Natural Disasters:  Vanuatu is among the most natural disaster prone countries in the world. Visitors should be aware that natural disasters can occur at any time with little or not notice. For general information on disaster preparedness visit the Department of State Crisis and Disaster Preparedness  webpage.

Cyclones:  Cyclones can occur suddenly in Vanuatu. Cyclone season usually lasts from November to April. Damaging winds, rough seas, intense rain and flash flooding, landslides, and disruptions to services may occur. Local media and hotels will convey cyclone alerts issued by local authorities.

Volcanoes/Earthquakes:  Vanuatu is frequently subject to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. If you plan to visit volcanic areas, contact the Department of Geology and Mines at (677) 22423 or the  Vanuatu Tourism Office  at prior to traveling to areas where volcanic activity may occur.

Detailed information about earthquakes is available from the  National Earthquake Information Center of the United States Geological Survey . If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities. Visit the  Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards page  to obtain current climate advisories, including volcano activity levels. All of Ambae Island and parts of Ambrym Island have been evacuated permanently due to regular volcanic activity. Avoid these areas and others under evacuation orders.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: Same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Vanuatu. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:

The law in Vanuatu does not prohibit discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Accessibility is generally more prevalent in the capital city, Port Vila. The availability of rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants is extremely limited.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Travel by road can be hazardous. Always use your seatbelt. Roads are generally narrow and in poor repair. Only the capital city of Port Vila and the town of Luganville have consistently paved roads, which have a maximum speed limit of 30 miles per hour (50 kilometers per hour). On all roads, give way to traffic coming from the right, and to traffic coming from the left at roundabouts. To avoid trespassing, seek permission from local landowners before accessing non-public areas, including beaches. Some landowners may charge a fee for access.

Traffic Laws: If you are involved in a road accident, local law requires you to stop and stay at the scene until the police arrive. If a crowd gathers after an accident and you feel threatened, proceed directly to a police station. Incidents of individuals being harmed by crowds as a result of a traffic accident are rare.

Many local drivers are not well trained and do not follow basic traffic laws. Be aware of drivers under the influence of alcohol, pedestrians who are not aware of traffic, and children running into the road. Drivers have very limited visibility due to a lack of roadway illumination. Police control of traffic is limited, even in Port Vila. When driving, be alert at all times. Street signs and traffic lights are scarce or may not be in working order. 

Public Transportation: Taxi services are widely available in Port Vila and Luganville and are generally safe. Public bus and mini-bus services are also available, but safety standards may vary widely and information on routes may not be available in a published form. Incidences of petty theft are generally rare by are more frequent on public transportation.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Contact Vanuatu’s national tourist office or the Vanuatu Police Force Traffic Section for more information on road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Vanuatu, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Vanuatu’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Vanuatu should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Vanuatu Visit Visa Application Process & Requirements

If you’ve chosen Vanuatu as your next travel destination, congratulations!

This archipelago, scattered across the South Pacific Ocean, offers a treasure trove of experiences, from world-class diving spots to tribal villages steeped in tradition.

Navigating the visa application process is the first step in your journey, and it’s our goal to guide you through this process, providing the know-how you need to set sail for Vanuatu without a hitch.

Apply Online

In this article…

Step 1: Determine if you Need a Visa

Before anything else, it’s important to ascertain whether you actually need a visa to visit Vanuatu.

This is because citizens of certain countries, including all Commonwealth countries, EU member states, the United States, and several others, can enter Vanuatu visa-free for up to 30 days.

However, if you’re from a country that isn’t exempt or you’re planning to stay for longer than 30 days, you’ll need a visa.

To check your country’s status, visit the official Vanuatu Government website .

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Step 2: Understand the Visa Type

For the purpose of tourism, you’ll need a tourist visa.

This visa allows you to experience the culture, adventure, and natural beauty of Vanuatu for leisure and is not suitable for work or long-term stays.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

If a visa is required, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

• A passport that’s valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Vanuatu and has a minimum of two blank pages for stamping.
• A completed and signed visa application form , which can be found on the Vanuatu Immigration Services website .
• Two recent passport-sized photographs.
• Proof of a round-trip flight or an onward ticket to your next destination.
• Documentation of your financial means to support your stay in Vanuatu, such as recent bank statements or payslips.
• Proof of accommodation in Vanuatu, such as hotel bookings, or an invitation letter if you’re staying with friends or family.

Take note that all documents should be in English or French , and any non-English or non-French documents must be translated and notarized.

Step 4: Submitting Your Application

Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to submit your application. As of now, Vanuatu does not have an online application system. So, you’ll need to submit your application directly to the Vanuatu Immigration Services by mail or in person. If you’re mailing your application, ensure it’s securely packaged and sent via registered mail or courier service. The postal address is:

Department of Immigration Private Mail Bag 0092 Port Vila Vanuatu

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

Upon receiving your application, the Vanuatu Immigration Services will send you an invoice for the visa fee. This fee varies depending on your nationality, and you can make the payment via bank transfer.

Make sure to keep a copy of the payment receipt as you might need to present it later.

Step 6: Processing Time and Collection

After submitting your application and paying the visa fee, your application will be processed. The typical processing time is 10 business days. If your visa is approved, you’ll receive a Visa Grant Notice via email.

You should print this notice and keep it with your travel documents, as you’ll need to present it upon your arrival in Vanuatu.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I extend my visa once I am in Vanuatu?

Yes, you can apply for an extension by visiting the immigration office in Port Vila. However, this is not guaranteed, so it’s better to apply for the correct duration in the initial application.

2. Can I work on a tourist visa in Vanuatu?

No, a tourist visa does not permit you to work in Vanuatu. If you intend to work, you’ll need to apply for a separate work permit.

3. What happens if my visa application is rejected?

If your visa application is rejected, the Vanuatu Immigration Services will provide a reason for the rejection. You can address the issue and reapply.

So, there you have it – your comprehensive guide to applying for a Vanuatu visit visa. With a little bit of preparation and the right documentation, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the blue lagoons, active volcanoes, and ancient traditions that make Vanuatu an unforgettable destination.

Don’t forget, though, visa rules are subject to change, so always double-check the official government websites for the most current information.

This article was last updated in May 2023. Please refer to the official website for any recent changes or updates.

Enjoy your travels to Vanuatu!

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The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu to the United Nations

Visa Information

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The Permanent Mission of the Republic of Vanuatu to the United Nations does not assist with the application of passports, visa and other official documents. 

Information on visa requirements, immigration and entrance permits can be retrieved from the Tourism Office of Vanuatu .

If you require further information, please contact:

Principal Immigration Officer  Immigration Department Vanuatu  Private Mail Bag 0092 Port Vila Vanuatu Phone: +678 22354  Fax: +678 25492 Email: [email protected]

Do you need a visa for Vanuatu?

If you're a national of countries such as Australia , Canada , the United States , the United Kingdom or a country in the European Union (among others), you don't need a tourist visa to travel to Vanuatu . This doesn't mean that there are no entry requirements. Travellers still need to hold a passport with at least 6 months validity (and have at least one blank page) and proof of a return flight (booking confirmation will suffice as evidence). You'll also need to have proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your holiday, as well as proof of the purpose of your trip (accommodation and activity confirmation should be enough). 

However, entry into Vanuatu is not guaranteed just because you don't have to apply for a visa. When you arrive at the airport, immigration officials will make a decision and this is handled on a case-by-case basis. Once you've gained entry into the country, you're allowed to stay for up to 30 days as a tourist but you can extend your stay for an additional 90 days by visiting the Immigration Department in Vanuatu, located in Port Vila. 

If you're from a different country that's not listed above, you may need to apply for a tourist visa but it's best to check with your local embassy on the visa requirements for Vanuatu. 

The process for obtaining a tourist visa for Vanuatu is a relatively easy one and be done in four easy steps: 

• Download the visa application checklist (this can be found on the Immigration Department's website or on an Embassy website). 
• Contact your closest Vanuatu Embassy to make a visa application appointment. Ensure you do this fairly soon after deciding to travel to Vanuatu, as you may have to wait several weeks for your appointment. 
• Bring your passport and any other supporting documentation you need to your appointment. 
• Once your appointment is over, your application will start the approval process. You don't have to do anything from this point on; simply wait for the outcome of your application. This could take anywhere from 7 days to a couple of weeks, so make sure you leave plenty of time before your intended arrival date in Vanuatu.  

Before your appointment with an immigration official, it's important you have all the required documentation with you so as not to hold up the process. This can include (but is not limited to) your filled-out application form, photocopy of the pages in your passport (bio page and all used pages), proof of your return home (flight confirmation) as well as supporting documentation outlining your intent to leave Vanuatu (statement from your employer), and proof of sufficient funds (bank statements). 

You may also need to provide the following information during your appointment: 

The place and date of birth.

The address and name of your accommodation in Vanuatu. 

Your employment status and employer contact details. 

All travellers making their way to Vanuatu (regardless of whether you need to hold a tourist visa or not), either by boat or plane, will need to fill out an immigration form before arrival. This form will ask you to fill in your arrival information (flight details, etc), the dates of your stay, and the address of your accommodation (among other things). 

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain the relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 3 January 2023

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Vanuatu Travel Guide: All you need to know to visit Vanuatu in 2024

Welcome to vanuatu.

Vanuatu country information

Vanuatu is a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia and east of Papua New Guinea.

Vanuatu is a small island nation situated in the South Pacific Ocean. Vanuatu comprises an archipelago comprising about 80 islands and covers a land area of roughly 12,190 square kilometers. The islands are located between Fiji and Australia and are part of the Melanesian group of islands. The topography of Vanuatu is characterized by rugged terrain, with the islands featuring active volcanoes, tropical rainforests, and pristine beaches. The islands’ surrounding waters feature coral reefs and are rich with marine life, making Vanuatu a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. The climate of Vanuatu is tropical, with warm and humid conditions year-round, and the country is susceptible to natural disasters such as cyclones and earthquakes. The population of Vanuatu is estimated to be around 300,000 people, with the majority living in rural areas and practicing subsistence farming. The official languages of Vanuatu are Bislama, English, and French, reflecting the country’s colonial history.

Vanuatu has a tropical climate characterized by warm and humid seasons. The average temperature in Vanuatu ranges from 22°C to 28°C, with only slight variations between seasons. The country experiences a wet season from November to April, characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional cyclones. During this period, the islands are prone to flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards. The dry season is less humid and marked by cooler temperatures, but it also experiences occasional bouts of drought. The sea temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year, with an average of around 26°C. The El Niño and La Niña weather patterns heavily influence Vanuatu’s climate, which can cause extreme weather conditions such as floods, droughts, and cyclones. Visitors to Vanuatu should know the country’s climatic conditions and prepare accordingly.

According to the latest Approximations from the United Nations, Vanuatu has a population of approximately 307,000 people. Most of the populace resides in the countryside, with a significant proportion engaging in subsistence agriculture and fishing. Port Vila, the capital and largest city, is home to around 45,000 people. The nation has a Demographically youthful population, with over 60% under the age of 30, and a high population growth rate, which presents opportunities and challenges for the country’s development.

Vanuatu’s culture is deeply rooted in traditional Melanesian customs and beliefs. Customary practices, such as kastom dancing, kava drinking, and traditional dress, are still widely observed, particularly in rural areas. The country is also famous for its unique and elaborate conventional ceremonies, such as the Toka ceremony on Pentecost Island; the familiar ritual of the region is the act of men leaping from tall wooden towers with vines attached to their ankles. Christianity has significantly influenced Vanuatu’s culture, incorporating many traditional practices and beliefs into Christian ceremonies and celebrations. Art and handicrafts, such as carvings, woven baskets, and intricate masks, are essential to Vanuatu’s cultural heritage.

Vanuatu is a linguistically diverse country, with over 100 indigenous languages spoken throughout the islands. Bislama, an English-based Creole language, is widely spoken as a lingua franca, particularly in urban areas. Although English and French are official languages, they are primarily used in government and education. Many people in rural areas also speak their local indigenous language as their first language. Some communities maintain traditional languages and cultural practices despite pressure from globalization and the dominance of Bislama.

Vanuatu is a predominantly Christian country, with approximately 83% of the population identifying as Christian. The largest denominations include Presbyterianism, Anglicanism, Roman Catholicism, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Traditional animistic beliefs and practices are common, particularly in rural areas, and often exist alongside Christianity. The island of Tanna is notable for its adherence to the John Frum cargo cult, which combines traditional beliefs with elements of Christianity and a conviction in the arrival of an American messiah who will bring wealth and prosperity to the island.

Vanuatu’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The country is a significant producer of copra, cocoa, kava, and coffee. Fishing also plays a vital role in the economy, with tuna being the main catch. The tourism industry has grown substantially recently, attracting visitors to the country’s natural beauty, beaches, and cultural heritage.

Vanuatu is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and laid-back way of life. Visitors can explore the country’s many islands, including the popular destinations of Efate, Tanna, and Espiritu Santo, which offer a range of activities such as hiking, diving, and cultural tours. VanThe country is also known for its colorful markets, where visitors can sample local produce and handicrafts. Vanuatu’s traditional ceremonies, such as the Toka festival on Pentecost Island, are a significant draw for visitors looking to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Government and Politics

Vanuatu is a parliamentary republic with a President as the head of the nation and a Prime Minister as the head of government. An electoral college elects the President for five years, while the Prime Minister is elected by parliament. The parliament is unicameral, consisting of 52 members.

Recent History

Vanuatu gained independence from France and the UK in 1980, making it one of the youngest nations in the world. Since then, it has been a parliamentary republic with a stable democratic government. However, political stability has been challenged by corruption and political infighting. In 2015, Cyclone Pam devastated the country, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The international community provided significant aid and support to assist with recovery efforts.

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The official currency of Vanuatu is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV).

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries, including India, must obtain a visa before traveling to Vanuatu.

The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry period, which runs from May to October.

Vanuatu has many tourist attractions, including stunning beaches, coral reefs, waterfalls, and volcanoes. Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, hiking, and cultural tours. Some famous tourist destinations in Vanuatu include Port Vila, Espiritu Santo, Tanna Island, and the Yasur Volcano.

The official languages of Vanuatu are English, French, and Bislama, a Creole language based on English. Many native languages are also spoken throughout the islands.

Get your visa from VISABUD today.

Login into your account and apply for your visa online, through our online visa application form.

Visiting Vanuatu: Things To Know Before You Go

16 nov 2023 29 jan 2020 | dan.

It may be more low-key than some of its glitzy South Pacific neighbours, but humble Vanuatu offers adventure and chillax in equal plenty.

In this post, we’ve pulled together the pre-trip considerations and important things to know for visiting Vanuatu and exploring this unassumingly awesome corner of the South Pacific.

Why visit Vanuatu?

Beach lover? How about some pristine white sand and crystal clear water, pretty much to yourself? Adventure mad? Canyoning, trekking and kayaking awaits, along with the roiling, steaming heights of Mt Yasur volcano. For scuba junkies, Vanuatu is home to one of the world’s best shipwreck dives, along with fantastic reef and WWII relic dive sites.

Vanuatu’s culture is a story 2,500 years in the making, and the opportunities to experience and immerse in the vibrant traditions of the ni-Vanuatu people are many.

We decided to focus our first Vanuatu odyssey on just one of its 83 islands, and we’re glad we did. While it was the world class scuba diving in Vanuatu that first drew us in, we were blown away by how much there was to do on the island of Espiritu Santo alone.

Here’s a video we put together of our favourite highlights on Santo as a taster:

This may well be your biggest challenge once you decide to visit Vanuatu: what will you do with the time you have?

In the meantime, let’s get started with the things you need to know before visiting Vanuatu.

Where should you go in Vanuatu?

The Republic of Vanuatu is made up of 83 separate islands scattered over a distance of some 1,300 kilometres. That’s a lot of isle-and-ocean to navigate.

That said, only 65 or so of the islands are actually inhabited, and most tourists really only make it to a handful of them. With just ten days for our first Vanuatu visit, we opted to spend all our time on just one island – Espiritu Santo. At a glance though, these are some of the more popular islands for a trip to Vanuatu:

• Efate is Vanuatu’s main island and home to the capital, Port Vila. Most visitors start (and stay) here as it offers a good sampler of the archipelago, with waterfalls and beaches, cultural experiences, island day trips, nice snorkelling and diving, and the biggest concentration of shopping and dining.
• Espiritu Santo is Vanuatu’s biggest island and an adventure hub, with jungle trekking, river kayaking, pristine beaches, beautiful blue holes, and great reef and wreck scuba diving sites, including the world’s largest accessible shipwreck, the SS Coolidge. You can visit villages for cultural tours here too. Luganville is its main town.
• Tanna Island offers yet more diving and rainforest adventures, coffee plantations, upscale resorts, and a Vanuatu showpiece: the very accessible, very active Mt Yasur volcano.
• Pentecost Island is famous for the heart-in-mouth rite of passage naghol – a forerunner of bungee, where men leap from wooden towers with vines attached to their legs. It takes place between May and July.
• Maleluka Island is for cultural discovery, a place to learn about ancient islander traditions, including a not-so-distant cannibal past.

Do you need a visa for Vanuatu?

If you’re a citizen of a Commonwealth or EU country, or the US, you don’t need a visa to visit Vanuatu; you just need a passport with at least six months’ validity and an onward ticket. You get a 30-day stay on arrival, and this can be extended up to four months once you’re there.

There are a number of countries, however, that do require a visa for visiting Vanuatu – check out this link for more info.

How do you travel to Vanuatu?

There are two international airports in Vanuatu: Bauerfield International Airport near Port Vila on the main island of Efate, and Pekoa International Airport near Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo.

Most international flights land at Port Vila, with domestic transfers to the other islands from there. You can reach Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, direct from Sydney and Brisbane in Australia, Auckland in New Zealand, Nadi in Fiji and Noumea in New Caledonia. There’s also a direct flight from Brisbane to the island of Espiritu Santo.

We took a 3.5 hour flight from Sydney to Port Vila, then a 50-minute domestic flight to Santo.

Airport taxes

There’s an international departure tax of VT2,500 (around USD$20) and an Air Vanuatu domestic departure tax of VT400 (appx USD$3.50). These are included in your airfare.

There’s also a separate domestic departure fee of VT200 (USD$1.70) for any flight out of the domestic airports at Port Vila, Santo, Emae, Epi and Tongoa. This is paid at the airport. We saw signs for it at the domestic airport in Port Vila, but it turns out you don’t need to pay this fee if you’re in transit.

Airport services

There’s very little going on at the international airports in Port Vila and Santo. The domestic airports are right next door.

We had an early morning flight out of Santo and there was a little café there serving food and coffee.

On our way home, we had a five hour layover in Port Vila. Given the very limited food choices at the airport, we decided to take a taxi into town to check out the markets and have something to eat (try the waterside Nambawan Café – a great spot to while away the time with nice meals and drinks).

We negotiated with our cabbie to come back and collect us a few hours later – total cost was VT3,000 (around USD$25). There were buses running into town from the airport which would be much cheaper, but less certain on the return.

How do you get between Vanuatu’s islands?

Getting between Vanuatu’s islands requires planning and time, so it pays to be realistic about how much you can see with the time you have.

Air is by far the quickest way to get around the Vanuatu archipelago, though we’re generally talking small prop planes that book up quickly, so don’t leave planning to the last minute.

There are some charter companies flying the domestic routes, but Air Vanuatu is the main player on the domestic run between the islands (it has 24 internal destinations bookable online).

While it’s the fastest mode of transport, it’s worth noting that Vanuatu’s domestic flight program is notoriously unreliable (for a range of reasons), so give yourself plenty of time if you’re connecting with other flights or activities.

We worked out pretty quickly that time moves at a different pace in Vanuatu, and there’s no point stressing about slow moving check-ins and delayed flights. The locals definitely aren’t.

Boat is another way to travel between the islands but you will need (lots of) time and patience. For example, the two passenger ferries plying the route between Port Vila and Santo (a 50-minute flight) take around 24 hours. More if they decide to stop in at other ports on the way.

To be honest, the more we read about travelling between the islands by boat, unless your travels are open-ended, and you don’t mind very basic conditions, unpredictable schedules and potentially rough seas, take a plane.

What about getting around once you’re on an island?

Getting around once you’re on an island is easy. On Santo, we made regular use of the taxis doing the main run to and from town. Taxis (usually little tin boxes with a sign on their roof) charged a flat fee of VT200 (around USD$1.70) for both of us – we made a point of checking this whenever we got in though. Apparently it’s more like VT500 (USD$4.30) in Port Vila.

If they’ve got room, taxis will stop even if they already have passengers, so we often found we were sharing with others, which was a nice way to get chatting with the locals.

Mini-buses are also common and can be flagged down anywhere – they have a B at the start of the number plate. On Santo, the fare was VT100 (about USD$0.85) per person for a short trip in town and from VT200 if travelling out of town (apparently it’s around VT150 in Port Vila).

On a couple of occasions, we unintentionally hitched when people stopped to offer us a lift while we were walking. We’ve read that in these cases, the ride is usually free unless the driver has to go out of their way to drop you off. In our case, they did go out of their way, so we negotiated a fare, which was the same as a taxi trip. Ask before you get in if you’re unsure.

We love the freedom that comes with hiring a car and Vanuatu was no exception, especially with Santo’s famous East Coast Road to explore.

Car hire certainly isn’t the only option for exploring the East Coast Road – you can hire a local to take you in their car, or join a guided tour taking in some of the key destinations. For us though, hiring a car was the perfect opportunity to explore this stunning coastal region at our own pace over a couple of days.

There are a couple of car hire companies in both Port Vila on Efate, and Luganville on Santo. We hired a zippy little SUV for two days for around VT18,000 (around USD$155). Vanuatu car hire isn’t a cheap option, and there are additional fees, like parking at Champagne Beach (VT2,000) and petrol, which all adds up. Still, we loved being able to stop where and when we wanted.

Public and private land in Vanuatu Land in Vanuatu is either public land owned by the Government, or ‘kastom’ land which is privately owned by ni-Van traditional owners. Visiting ‘kastom’ land requires permission from the land owners (you’ll often see ‘tabu’ signs at the entry to properties – it’s the origin of our word ‘taboo’ and means what it suggests – don’t go in without invitation). There are specific places that can be visited by tourists, and these are managed by their kastom owners. You’ll often find there’s a local payment for visiting these places, which goes directly to the community. At first we were a bit dubious about handing over cash to random people at the entrance to certain places, but we soon discovered this is normal and there’s a trust system at work. If you pay someone an entry fee, just ask their name so if you’re later asked by someone else, you can tell them who you paid. If you want to get off the regular tourist trail, tour operators have often negotiated with kastom owners to access special places you won’t otherwise get to see.

What language do the people of Vanuatu speak?

The people of Vanuatu are called ni-Vanuatu (ni-Van for short), and while there are more than 100 local languages across the archipelago, the three official Vanuatu languages are Bislama, English and French.

Bislama is a form of pidgin English specific to the ni-Van and it’s the language you’ll hear most often, though just about everyone we met spoke English.

If you want to try a couple of Bislama words and phrases, good morning is  ‘gudmoning’, how are you is ‘olsem wanem?’ and thank you is ‘tangkyu tumas’.

When is the best time to visit Vanuatu?

Vanuatu is in the tropics so it gets plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Still, the best time to visit is said to be between April and October . This is winter/spring, when temps are in the low to mid 20s.

The wet season, from around November to March, is hot and humid. Temps are in the high 20s to low 30s. In true tropical fashion, downpours are heavy but brief. This is also cyclone season in the Pacific though, so if you’re planning a trip to Vanuatu at this time of year, keep an eye on the weather reports.

Peak season in Vanuatu is from June to August and mid-December to the end of January. The New Zealand and Australian school holidays are particularly busy, so check ahead as prices go up during these periods.

Our Vanuatu visit was in late October and while the daytime temps were in the high 20s, lovely cool southerlies would pick up each afternoon to cool the air, and we had occasional overnight rains. Most days started overcast, clearing in the afternoons to deliver stunning blue skies.

As scuba divers, sea temps are always an important consideration for us too (we’re no fans of chilly diving). Vanuatu’s waters range from around 22 to 28 degrees throughout the year, and averaged around 26 degrees for our dives in October, which suited us just fine.

Money matters

Vanuatu’s currency is the ni-Vanuatu vatu . You may see it written up as VUV or VT. It comes in coins and notes.

• Coins are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 100.
• Notes are in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 5000 & 10000.

It’s good to have low denominations to hand for getting around and making local purchases.

We found most restaurants in town accepted credit cards, as did the supermarkets and our accommodation. Outside of the main towns and resorts though, have cash handy.

ATMs and banks

There are banks in Port Vila and Luganville, and easily accessible ATMs in both towns. You’ll also find ATMs at the airports, and money changers.

We made a point of getting money out from the ATM at the airport in Santo when we arrived, so we wouldn’t have to fuss once we got to our accommodation.  

Is Vanuatu expensive?

While we’ve definitely been to more expensive destinations, we wouldn’t describe Vanuatu as a budget holiday. We found restaurant meals, car hire, entry fees and experiences to be similarly priced to Australia.

If you’re visiting lots of local sites in a day, entry fees can add up. These fees go directly to the community though and are an important contribution we can make as tourists.

Staying in a mid-range hotel bungalow with brekkie included, eating out some nights and buying other meals from the supermarket, using local transport and paying various entry fees, we spent an average of USD$155 per day for the two of us. Car hire, tours and scuba diving were extra.

There are lots of ways to save dollars while in Vanauatu; read on for suggestions about saving when it comes to accommodation, eating and drinking.

What is Vanuatu accommodation like?

You might be thinking Vanuatu is a luxury South Pacific holiday destination, but the country actually caters to range of budgets when it comes to accommodation.

Yes, there are some stunning waters-edge resorts and boutique stays, with the accompanying price tags. But there are also regular hotels, self-catering holiday rentals, hostels and simple beach shacks. You can also experience local life and culture with a stay in a traditional ni-Van village .

We even met a guy who was travelling with a tent and seeking permission from landowners to camp where he could.

We were keen on spreading our tourist dollar around, so on Santo we stayed at a hotel within walking distance of Luganville with a basic kitchenette. That way we could try different eateries, as well as pick up stuff from the local market and supermarket.

Vanuatu food and drink

Many ni-Van grow their own food or source it locally – be sure to visit a local market for a sense of Vanuatu food, and the sheer diversity and colour of the fruits and veg grown here (the markets in Port Vila and Luganville are on every day).

Poulet fish is a tasty white fish that turns up often on menus. Randomly, and unbeknown to us before our visit, Vanuatu beef is also considered top notch. Unsurprising, when you see the country’s chilled out cows grazing beneath palm trees on the coconut plantations.

Speaking of coconuts, you’ll also find coconut crab – the world’s largest land-based invertebrate – a prized entry on some menus. However, it can take more than 40 years for these giants to reach full size, and they’re now an endangered species . Please don’t buy it.  

Everything not grown or sourced locally has to be shipped in and the prices reflect it: we found the cost of food and drink in the restaurants and supermarkets to be similar to home.

We balanced our budget by eating out some nights and picking up items from the market and supermarket on others.

The Market Meal Booths at the market in Luganville are said to be a cheap and easy way to eat local. We didn’t get to try them alas as the markets were in the process of moving to a new location and the booths didn’t appear to be open.

When it comes to booze, it’s way cheaper to buy from the supermarket than at restaurants – literally half the price in the case of beer. We made a point of enjoying some supermarket-bought local craft beers on our balcony in the evenings rather than buying them in restaurants.

Is there wifi?

Wifi was available at our hotel free of charge, and this is apparently the norm, though some places do charge extra. We also found various cafes and restaurants had wifi for customers.

On the whole though, and perhaps unsurprisingly, the internet was generally patchy and slow. We took the cue and enjoyed a semi-digital detox instead.

How do I organise tours?

While we tend to travel independently, there are certain activities and experiences in Vanuatu that can only be done on an organised tour. With the kastom land ownership, tours also give you a chance to get off the tourist trail to see and experience parts of the islands and village life and culture that you wouldn’t otherwise get to.  

There are plenty of great tours and activities on offer around Vanuatu, from cultural shows in local villages and kayaking adventures , to volcano hikes and the epic Millennium Cave tour on Santo (check out our video above for scenes from this fantastic daytrip).

It’s very easy to organise tours – either direct with tour agencies in the main towns, or via your accommodation. This site is also a great starting point for checking out the huge range of tour options across Vanuatu.

What health risks should you be aware of?

Like any destination, there are health matters you should be aware of before you travel to Vanuatu, and vaccinations that you should check are up to date. You should always have travel insurance.

Malaria is present in Vanuatu so discuss your options with your doctor before you go, along with any vaccinations you may need. Pack repellent with DEET, and long sleeves and pants.

DEET is also useful for other bitey insects, like ticks. I (Dan) was bitten by a tick while on a trek in the jungle on Santo. As it was on my back and we weren’t sure about removing it safely, we visited a local medical clinic in Luganville to get it dealt with. It was a simple and straightforward process and the cost was similar to what we would pay to visit a doctor in Australia.

Can you drink the tap water? According to SmartTraveller , it’s safe to drink the tap water in Port Vila and Luganville, but outside these areas you should boil the water first or drink bottled water. If you’re staying in a resort, check with them whether the tap water is ok. To avoid single use plastic, we suggest packing a steripen, or take a water bottle with a built-in purification system.

Where can I buy souvenirs?

The ni-Van make beautiful handicrafts, artworks, jewellery and clothes – buying from locals at the markets ensures your dollars are going direct to the community.

On Santo, check out the Luganville Women’s Handicraft shed off Main Street by the water, and Mama Handicraft back on Main Street.

In Port Vila, head to the Haos Blong Handikraft market by the waterfront near Numbawan Cafe.

There are some things to watch out for and know: Haggling isn’t a thing in Vanuatu. If you’re travelling via (or to) Australia as part of your Vanuatu trip, be aware that quarantine laws are extremely strict. There’s information available at the handicraft markets in Port Vila and Luganville that tells you what to look for when buying souvenirs.

You’ll also see shells and shell products. As with anywhere, avoid buying these if you can; they belong in the sea.

Packing essentials for visiting Vanuatu

Here are some key take-outs from our trip to help you pack for a perfect Vanuatu adventure:

• As a tropical destination, light and airy clothes are a must.
• Long pants and sleeves are good for evenings when mosquitos come out to bite.
• DEET repellent is also critical for keeping bitey beasties at bay.
• Sunscreen is vital, especially this close to the equator; if you’re swimming in the sea, aim for a reef-friendly sunscreen.
• Wear a hat and sunnies when you’re out during the day.
• With reefs to explore, dugongs to spot and blue holes to delve into, don’t forget to pack your snorkel and mask (and an underwater camera).
• Reef shoes are great for beach, sea and river adventures.
• Pack Plug Type I – the two and three-pin plugs used in Australia and New Zealand. Bring a global adaptor too, just in case.
• Bring a water bottle with built-in purifier , a steripen or water purification tablets, particularly if you’re staying outside of Port Vila and Luganville or a resort.

Got a question we haven’t answered here? Ask away below and we’ll see if we can help. Happy Vanuatu trip planning!

2 thoughts on “Visiting Vanuatu: Things To Know Before You Go”

Am interested to visit your country this year October up to December Christmas holidays

Thanks David, I hope you make it to Vanuatu at some point – be sure to check health and entry requirements before you travel given the current COVID situation.

All the best, John and Danielle

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Visa on Arrival in Vanuatu: Everything You Need to Know

The article provides a complete guide on visa on arrival in Vanuatu , covering everything you need to know about the application process, eligible countries, requirements, and validity period. If you’re planning to visit Vanuatu, In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable resources for obtaining your visa and everything you need to know about how to get a visa on arrival in Vanuatu .

Table of Contents

Who needs a visa to enter Vanuatu?

Citizens of most countries are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Vanuatu. However, there are a few exceptions:

List of the Exempt countries not requiring a tourist visitor visa to enter Vanuatu

Africa –

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa

Americas –

• Antigua & Barbuda
• St Christopher-Nevis
• Trinidad & Tobago
• St Vincent & Grenadines
• China1(People’s Republic of) Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Macau Special Administrative region
• Korea (Republic of)
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• Cook Islands
• Federated States of
• Marshall Island
• New Caledonia*
• New Zealand
• Papua New Guinea*
• Solomon Islands*

European Union

• France Dependencies
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Czech Republic
• Slovak Republic

List of non-Exempt Countries not requiring a tourist visitor visa to enter Vanuatu

If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you will need to apply for a visa at a Vanuatu embassy or consulate before your trip.

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Congo, Democratic Republic
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Mozambique*
• South Sudan
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Guinea Bissau
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Afghanistan
• Herzegovina
• Turkmenistan

How to get a visa on arrival in Vanuatu?

If you’re a citizen of a country that is eligible for a visa on arrival, you can apply for one at the Port Vila or Luganville airports. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Complete the arrival card

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to complete an arrival card. This card will ask for basic information such as your name, passport number, and flight details. Make sure to fill out the card completely and accurately.

Step 2: Pay the visa fee

You will need to pay a fee for your visa on arrival. The fee is currently 4,000 Vatu (approximately USD 36). You can pay this fee in cash or with a credit card.

Step 3: Submit your documents

Once you’ve completed the arrival card and paid the fee, you’ll need to submit your documents. You’ll need to provide your passport, a passport-sized photo, and your return ticket. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Vanuatu.

Step 4: Wait for approval

After you’ve submitted your documents, you’ll need to wait for the approval. This process usually takes between 5 and 10 minutes, and you’ll be notified if your visa has been approved.

Step 5: Collect your passport with visa Stampped

Once your visa has been approved, you’ll need to collect your passport. Make sure to keep your visa stampped passport with you at all times during your stay in Vanuatu.

How long is the visa valid?

The visa on arrival in Vanuatu is valid for 30 days . If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for an extension. You can do this at the Vanuatu Immigration Office in Port Vila or Luganville.

What are the visa requirements?

To be eligible for a visa on arrival in Vanuatu, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Vanuatu.
• You need Travel Insurance
• You must have a return ticket or an onward ticket to a third country.
• You must have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Vanuatu.

In conclusion, getting a visa on arrival in Vanuatu is a straightforward process for most travelers. As long as you meet the requirements and have all the necessary documents, you should be able to obtain your visa quickly and easily. So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the beautiful island nation of Vanuatu!

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Vanuatu set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Vanuatu.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Vanuatu, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Vanuatu without a pre-arranged visa for up to 30 days. Border officials will issue you with a visa on arrival. You must have a ticket for onward or return travel. 

To stay longer than 30 days or to work, study, travel for business or other reasons, you must have a visa. Contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Vanuatu guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Vanuatu . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Vanuatu.

Vanuatu (PDF 680.48 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.26 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 115 for the Pro-Medical Ambulance Service (Port Vila and Lungaville only) or go to a hospital.

Call 111 or 22222 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Vanuatu. 

• The cyclone season is from November to April, but cyclones can happen at any time. Cyclones can disrupt services and cause property damage, injuries, and loss of life. In the event of a cyclone, follow the National Disaster Management Office and  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  advice. 
• Crime in Vanuatu is low. Crime tends to increase in the lead-up to holidays such as Independence Day (30 July) and Christmas. The risk is also higher at night or in isolated locations. Don't walk alone after dark.
• Earthquakes occur regularly. Tsunamis happen but aren't regular. If you hear a tsunami warning siren (Port Vila or Santo) or experience a long or strong tremor, move to higher ground and follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Vanuatu has several active volcanoes, including under-sea volcanoes. Before traveling to volcanic areas, visit the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  website for the latest volcanic activity advice.
• There's been an increase in reports of shark sightings and attacks in Port Vila. Exercise caution when undertaking water-based activities. Follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. 

Full travel advice: Safety

• Malaria occurs in Vanuatu, especially in the north of the country. Consider taking anti-malaria medication if you're travelling to affected areas. Dengue can occur anywhere in Vanuatu. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Vanuatu has had Zika virus, rubella, mumps, measles, and chickenpox cases. Check your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
• Tap water in Port Vila, and Luganville is generally safe to drink but can be affected following cyclones or heavy rains. Outside these areas, drink boiled or bottled water.
• Medical facilities are limited. If you're ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation. This can be expensive and hard to organise. Check if your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. If you're convicted of a drug offence, you could face fines or jail time.
• Know the local laws. There are strict rules regarding obscene material. Penalties include prison sentences.
• Be aware of laws around alcohol. It's illegal for supermarkets to sell alcohol between midday Saturday and 7am Monday. You can still buy alcohol in hotels, bars and clubs.
• Vanuatu recognises dual nationality. If you don't travel on your Australian passport, our ability to provide consular services is limited.
• Vanuatu is a religious country (predominantly Christian) and standards of dress and behaviour are modest. Take care not to offend.

Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Air Vanuatu and codeshare partners have cancelled several flights. If you're affected by these cancellations, contact your travel agent or insurance company for information about alternative airlines providing services to Australia, including Fiji Airways, AirCalin and Virgin Australia. 
• You'll need to apply for a tourist visa to enter Vanuatu when you arrive at the airport. This allows you to visit Vanuatu for up to 120 days. If you're not a tourist or you plan to stay longer, you'll need a visa. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission or consulate of Vanuatu for the latest details.
• International and domestic flights can be impacted at short notice by natural disasters, aircraft issues and other events. Contact your airline or travel agent if your flight is impacted. Air Vanuatu publishes flight schedules on their Facebook page and Virgin Australia on their website .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the Australian High Commission in Port Vila for consular assistance.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Violent crime.

Crime against travellers in Vanuatu is rare. 

However, travellers and foreign residents have been  robbed ,  assaulted  and  sexually assaulted  in Vanuatu.

The risk of violent crime is higher:

• in isolated places
• when you're alone

Like elsewhere, crime in Vanuatu tends to increase on weekends and in the weeks leading up to holidays, such as  Christmas  and Independence Day (30 July).

To protect yourself from crime:

• watch your belongings on buses and taxis, especially at night
• don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
• always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
• be alert to suspicious behaviour
• be aware of opportunistic theft. Secure belongings in locked luggage or hotel safe when unattended. 

More information:

• Advice for women travellers

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Civil unrest isn't common in Vanuatu. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people have on occasion turned violent.

To protect yourself during any periods of unrest:

• avoid large crowds and big public gatherings
• monitor local media for possible unrest, protest locations or roadblocks
• follow the advice of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Tours and adventure activities

Not all tour operators follow safety and maintenance standards.

If you plan to do a tour or  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts.

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Tropical cyclones judy, kevin and lola.

Vanuatu continues to recover from the impacts of Cyclones Judy, Kevin and Lola, which have caused widespread damage. There still may be disruptions to infrastructure, services and telecommunications in some locations. 

Natural disasters and severe weather  in Vanuatu includes:

• volcanic activity
• earthquakes

Get updates on weather conditions, forecasts, natural disaster watches and warnings before and during your stay.

Monitor local and regional weather and disaster sites (see below), and plan accordingly.

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources
• keep in contact with your friends and family at home
• Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department​
• Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office
• Fiji Meteorological Service
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Joint Typhoon Warning Center, US Navy

Tropical storms and cyclones

The cyclone season is from November to April. Tropical storms and cyclones can also occur in other months. They can disrupt essential services and cause property damage, injuries, and loss of life. The direction and strength of a tropical cyclone can change suddenly. Cyclones can bring:

• torrential rains
• storm surges
• flash flooding
• winds up to 300km/h

The  Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office  has a  colour-coded cyclone alert system  that includes safety procedures to follow during a cyclone.

If a cyclone or tropical storm occurs:

• you may get stuck where you are
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• the storm may affect access to seaports
• safe shelter may not be available

To prepare for a cyclone or tropical storm:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel, cruise ship, or other accommodation
• identify your local shelter
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Monitor advice from the  Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office  and the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department​ .

Flooding can occur in Vanuatu during and after cyclones and severe rain events, including:

• flash floods - from heavy rains, and overflowing/burst dams
• river floods - often from seasonal rains or severe rain events
• coastal floods - from tsunamis, storm surges and severe weather events such as cyclones

If flooding occurs:

• take official warnings seriously

Earthquakes 

Earthquakes occur regularly in Vanuatu. Minor tremors, under a magnitude of 4.0, are very common and usually have minimal impact on people and property.

Extreme shaking from major earthquakes above a magnitude of 6.0, can:

• cause tsunamis
• cause landslides and mudslides
• collapse buildings
• break gas and water lines, underground and in buildings
• knock down electricity lines

Tsunamis can occur in Vanuatu and are caused by strong and sudden movement in the ocean. This usually happens when there's an undersea  earthquake , landslide, or volcanic eruption.

A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake. It can also occur if no earthquake is felt.

Vanuatu has tsunami warning sirens in Port Vila and Luganville. If you hear tsunami warning sirens or feel a long or strong tremor (lasts more than a minute or makes it hard to stand up). You should:

• move to high ground or as far inland as possible, if you are near the coast or in a low-lying area 
• follow the advice of local authorities ( Vanuatu Natural Disaster Management Office  and the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department ).

You can follow: 

• the Pacific/ U.S. Tsunami Warning System 
• the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System;  and/or
• Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department

Vanuatu has several active volcanoes, including several under-sea volcanoes. Volcanoes are active on the islands of:

Visiting an active volcano can be dangerous.

Pay attention to alerts. Alert levels go from 0 (normal, low-level activity) to 5 (very large eruption, island-wide danger).

A Level 3 alert triggers warnings to avoid the volcano summit and nearby areas. Even at lower levels, explosions and injuries from volcanic debris are possible.

Alert levels and access to volcanoes can change quickly. Before traveling to volcanic areas, visit the  Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department  website for the latest volcanic activity advice. If there is a volcanic eruption:

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Health direct Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in Vanuatu. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

You'll find pharmacies in urban centres or at local clinics. They normally only open during business hours. A few urban pharmacies may open on Sunday or public holidays.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Vanuatu. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Malaria  occurs in some areas of Vanuatu, particularly in the north. Consider taking medication to prevent malaria if you plan to travel to affected areas. Discuss options with your doctor.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases also occur across Vanuatu. These include:

To protect yourself from these diseases:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

See a doctor if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

Other infectious risks

• pertussis  (whooping cough)
• varicella  (chickenpox)

Discuss options with your doctor if:

• your vaccinations aren't up to date
• you're travelling with children or babies who haven't finished their recommended vaccinations

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases can occur in Vanuatu. These include:

• leptospirosis
• tuberculosis
• sexually transmitted infections

Tap water in the major urban centres of Port Vila, and Luganville is generally safe to drink. Water may be affected following cyclones, heavy rain or volcanic ash fall.

To protect yourself from illness:

• avoid raw or undercooked food, such as salads
• outside of Port Vila and Luganville, drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes

See a doctor if you develop a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Fish poisoning

Eating reef fish can result in  ciguatera poisoning . Ciguatera is a naturally occurring seafood toxin.

Get urgent medical help if you suspect poisoning.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Hospital and medical facilities in Vanuatu are limited.

Costs for treatment, including medication, can be high. Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash payments.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation is expensive and hard to organise. 

The only hyperbaric chamber in Vanuatu is in Port Vila. Many popular dive sites are located on other islands.

If you're in a diving accident, it may take hours or days to reach the necessary medical facilities. The standard of rescue and emergency services is not as high as in Australia.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . However, we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you commit a drug offence, penalties can include fines and jail sentences. 

Carrying or using drugs

Obscene publications

It's illegal to import, possess, distribute, display or produce obscene publications. The rules about what is obscene are stricter than in Australia. Penalties include prison sentences.

Alcohol sales

Selling alcohol in supermarkets and similar outlets between midday Saturday and 7am Monday is illegal.

During these times, alcohol may still be served at clubs, bars and hotels.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Vanuatu recognises dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Dual nationals

Local customs

Vanuatu has modest standards of dress and behaviour. Take care not to offend.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You can apply for a tourist visa on arrival if:

• you're visiting Vanuatu purposely for tourism and leisure for up to 120 days 
• you have a booking with an accredited tourism facility or carry a letter of support from family/friends if staying at private accommodation
• you hold a return ticket
• your passport is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry to Vanuatu.

Tourist visas are subject to the following conditions:

• engaging in employment, commercial or business activities is not permitted.
•  is valid for single entry only.
• may not be converted to a different visa status, e.g. business visa, while in Vanuatu.
• On-shore extension of tourist visas is not permitted.
• Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Service

Other formalities

Customs and biosecurity.

Customs authorities enforce strict rules on importing items, such as:

• obscene material
• Vanuatu Customs and Inland Revenue Department
• Biosecurity Vanuatu
• Vanuatu Department of Immigration  

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a  new passport . 

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, let the Australian Government know as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .

If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Small shops and local market stalls only accept Vatu.

In Port Vila, you can use Australian dollars at some: shops, restaurants, and hotels.

You can use credit cards in Port Vila, but they're less widely accepted elsewhere.

Ask your bank if your ATM card will work in Vanuatu.

Local travel

Beach and land access.

To avoid trespassing, ask local landowners before going to non-public areas, including beaches.

Some landowners may charge a fee for access.

Driving permit

You can drive in Vanuatu on an Australian driver's licence for up to 3 months.

After that, you'll need a local licence.

Road travel

Road travel in Vanuatu can be dangerous. Roads are often:

• poorly maintained

Pedestrians often walk on roads and can be hard to see, especially at night.

Vehicles in Vanuatu drive on the right-hand side of the road.

If you plan to drive in Vanuatu:

• check your travel insurance covers you
• learn local traffic laws and practices before driving

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance covers you for riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis. Try to arrange these through your hotel or resort.

Public transport

There's no formal public transport system in Vanuatu.

In Port Vila and some areas, transport is available through privately owned:

• small buses

Public transport vehicles can be poorly maintained. Many don't have insurance.

By law, inter-island boats and ferries must have a current seaworthy certificate. However, many don't. Look into their safety before taking these services.

Several international cruises schedule stopovers in Vanuatu.

Arrival into Vanuatu by private yacht is subject to approval processes and quarantine. See the Travel section.

Travelling by boat

International and domestic flights can be disrupted at short notice by natural disasters, aircraft issues and other events. Contact your airline or travel agent if your flight is affected. Air Vanuatu publishes flight schedules on their  Facebook  page.

Travel to outer islands is often on small local aircraft. DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. However, travelling between islands on small aircraft with two engines and on aircraft with scheduled flights is recommended.

Many domestic airports have basic or no facilities.

Airstrips are generally short. Runways are mostly unsealed.

Schedules may be changed or suspended at short notice due to the following:

• weather conditions
• ash clouds from volcanic activity

Check  Vanuatu's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

•   Air travel

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call the ProMedical Ambulance Service on 115 (Port Vila and Luganville only) or go to a hospital.

Call 111 or 22222, or go to the local police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Port Vila. 

Australian High Commission, Port Vila

Winston Churchill Avenue Port Vila, Vanuatu

Phone: +678 22 777 Website: vanuatu.embassy.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: @AustralianHighCommissionVanuatu X: @AusHCVanuatu

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Vanuatu itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Vanuatu

Looking for Vanuatu itinerary ideas ? What to do in Vanuatu? Where to stay in Tanna? What to see in Espiritu Santo? How long to spend in Vanuatu to see all the major sites? I was backpacking Vanuatu in April, during the time, known as the land diving ritual. And spending 12 days in this South Pacific Island is just the perfect amount of time to get the taste of the Happiest Place in the World . Find out how in my Vanuatu itinerary below.

🇻🇺 If you have been wondering “What is Anja’s favorite part of Vanuatu?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

Vanuatu itinerary

In a bit more than 1 week in Vanuatu, you will see all the major sites . From Efate to Tanna, to Pentecost and Espiritu Santo. From Yakel Kastom tribe to land diving ritual . Inside this Vanuatu travel guide , you will find a perfect blend of culture and nature, sleep in tree houses, try tons of delicious food, hike an active volcano , dive among the shipwrecks, and see where bungee jumping comes from. All of it in less than 2 weeks in Vanuatu itinerary . From perfect Champagne beach and blue holes to volcanic landscapes under Mount Yasur. This is the Vanuatu itinerary , I used when celebrating my birthday in Vanuatu. This perfect Vanuatu itinerary will detail how to spend twelve days in Vanuatu , to make your trip memorable, cross off some bucket list items, and be full of exciting stories to tell.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Plan to spend at least a week in Vanuatu, but if time permits, reserve 10 days in Vanuatu to have enough time to include different islands in your Vanuatu itinerary.
• Visit and feel the difference between islands Efate – more developed, touristic, and ‘Western’, Tanna – adventurous and cultural, Espiritu Santo – laid back, beach and tropical vibes.
• Include must-do things; such as visiting the market in Port Vila, Mount Yasur volcano hike and kastom village visit on Tanna, swimming in Blue Holes, and snorkeling on Million Dollar Point on Santo.
• Indulge in delicious food, a mixture of local produce and French cuisine.
• If traveling to Vanuatu between April and June, don’t miss the opportunity to go on a Nagol or Land diving tour on Pentecost Island and witness the centuries-old tradition that inspired modern bungee jumping.

for ITINERARY idea: • Vanuatu itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Vanuatu for Vanuatu TRAVEL TIPS: • Vanuatu Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown • Ultimate traveler safety guide: What to do during an earthquake • Epic Nagol Land Diving Pentecost Island Tour: Vanuatu Bungee Jumping for ACCOMMODATION suggestions: • for CAPTION IDEAS: • 111 Beautiful Vanuatu Captions For Instagram

for HALF DAY in … ITINERARY ideas: • Grand Canyon in half day: How to spend half day at Grand Canyon South Rim for 1 DAY or 24h in … ITINERARY ideas: • Best One Day in Amman Itinerary: How To Spend 24h in Amman • How to get from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon by car – One day road trip itinerary for multiple days ITINERARY ideas: • Dubai itinerary: How to spend 5 days in Dubai • Vanuatu itinerary: How to Spend 12 Days in Vanuatu • Zanzibar itinerary: How to spend 12 days in Zanzibar • Japan itinerary: How to spend 17 days in Japan

Table of Contents

Disclosure: This twelve days Vanuatu itinerary article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in  Disclaimer .

📌 Don’t have time to read it now ? Pin i t for later!

1. Breakdown of 12-day Vanuatu travel itinerary

This is a semi-relaxed itinerary for Vanuatu . If you are the type of person who only enjoys spending time by the pool or on a beach, then this is not for you. The Vanuatu itinerary below offers active days and a steady pace to explore different Vanuatu islands . It is the original itinerary for Vanuatu that I was supposed to follow. Due to some tour rescheduling and flight cancellations, my Vanuatu itinerary was modified accordingly. The itinerary offers a combination of sightseeing days , day trips , and days to relax . There are days when you can add more activities or swap sightseeing days on the same island. Following this Vanuatu blog, you will get enough time to learn about Vanuatu’s history , experience its culture, swim on different beaches, climb a volcano, and enjoy delicious food.

How many days do you need in Vanuatu? For your first visit to Vanuatu , I would recommend doing a similar route as described below. And you can even do the suggested itinerary if you are only spending 10 days in Vanuatu . You will see all the major Vanuatu bucket list items. But for the adventurers, you can add some more islands, like Ambrym, to your Vanuatu trip.  I would recommend starting your itinerary on Efate Island and staying somewhere close to Port Vila (4 nights). If visiting between April and June, go on a day tour to Pentecost Island on one of those days. Then fly to Tanna Island (3 nights) and your last stop will be Espiritu Santo Island (4 nights). Fly out from Santo directly or via Efate.

SHORT VANUATU ITINERARY OVERVIEW: Day 1: Arrival in Vanuatu and transfer to Port Vila Day 2: Port Villa, Mele Cascades, and underwater Post office Day 3: Day tour to Pentecost Island Day 4: Tour around Efate island Day 5: Fly to Tanna and transfer to Yasur volcano Day 6: Kastom village Day 7: Mount Yasur volcano tour Day 8: Fly to Espiritu Santo and transfer to Luganville Day 9: Luganville and Millenium cave Day 10: Million dollar point and Blue holes Day 11: Port Orly and Champagne Beach Day 12: Espiritu Santo and departure

Here is how Vanuatu itinerary island hopping looks on a map!

2. Be st time to visit Vanuatu

The Vanuatu archipelago (formerly called the New Hebrides ) consists of more than 80 islands forming an irregular Y shape on the Pacific Ring of Fire . They are in a similar latitude as Fiji, and thanks to the tropical climate, the weather is generally good to visit Vanuatu all year round . There are two distinctive seasons in Vanuatu, dry season and wet season. Choosing when to visit Vanuatu will depend on a personal preference, but prices and the number of tourists will be higher during the Australian school holidays. Below are some general factors you should consider when planning your Vanuatu itinerary.

The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry season between April and October. In these months the weather is warm and sunny, with minimal rainfall and less humidity. Months from April to June are shoulder season months that offer a perfect balance of good weather and fewer crowds. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, water adventures, and are great for anyone wanting to experience the Nagol Land Diving Ritual . I visited Vanuatu in April.

July to September have a bit cooler temperatures and are great for anyone who wants to spend their Vanuatu holiday exploring the underwater worlds with diving or snorkeling . This is a peak tourist season , with higher prices and more crowds as it coincides with the Australian school holidays. In October the temperatures start to rise but the month still offers good weather for outdoor activities. October marks the end of the dry season and sees fewer crowds. November to March is “wet season”. This also happens to be the cyclone season in Vanuatu , although cyclones can happen at any time. December to February are the quietest months with fewer tourists, while there might be more crowds during Christmas and New Year . Months from January to March are the wettest period with increased humidity and more frequent rain and cyclones.

Pin those for a later read!

3. How to get to Vanuatu

There are two ways on how to get to Vanuatu islands, by plane or by cruise ship .

• HOW TO GET TO VANUATU FROM AUSTRALIA The easiest way is to get to Vanuatu from Australia and the Pacific region . Vanuatu National Airline, Air Vanuatu , offers direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland and Brisbane. They fly to Port Villa on Efate Island and Luganville on Espiritu Santo. Check I want that flight since they usually have great packages to Vanuatu from Sydney. I flew to Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila from Brisbane Airport and then boarded another Air Vanuatu flight to Nadi in Fiji. You can also visit Vanuatu by going on a cruise or renting a yacht . A lot of cruise lines go to Vanuatu, from P&O, Carnival, Celebrity Cruises to Royal Caribbean Cruises, MCS Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. When booking a cruise to Vanuatu , make sure you dock in Port Villa and preferably on Espiritu Santo Island. To visit the famous Champagne beach.
• HOW TO GET TO VANUATU FROM USA The best way to travel to Vanuatu from the USA is by air by major international airlines , such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Fiji Airways, with layovers in cities like Auckland, Sydney , or Nadi .
• HOW TO GET TO VANUATU FROM EUROPE The most optimal way to travel to Vanuatu from Europe is via Australia or New Zealand , with major airlines like Qantas, or Qatar. There are also some routes available to fly via Asia, like Singapore or Hong Kong, and then to Fiji and Vanuatu.

4. How to save money when planning a Vanuatu itinerary

Do you want to travel more and spend less ? I have created a list of Vanuatu travel resources for you. This is a collection of the best travel resources when it comes to transportation, accommodation, travel insurance, and more.

All of these are products that I personally use and recommend to others. Choosing the best travel resources from the beginning will save you time and money . Trust me, by using these travel resources, you will be able to travel further than you ever imagined.

5. Things to know before visiting Vanuatu

• VANUATU VISA For visiting islands in the Vanuatu archipelago, you will need a tourist visa . For most countries, you can get a visa on arrival , with some exceptions. Find if you hold a passport of the country that gets Vanuatu tourist visa on arrival, or if you are the one that needs to apply for a visitors visa. Learn more about Vanuatu visa on official Vanuatu website.
• SAFETY: Cyclones, Earthquakes, Tsunamis and Volcanoes Cyclone season in Vanuatu is from November to April. If there is a cyclone alert while there, follow the National Disaster Management Office and Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department advice. Vanuatu lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire so earthquakes occur regularly. Read the traveler safety guide on staying safe during an earthquake . Tsunamis often happens, after an earthquake. There is a tsunami warning system in Port Villa and Santo. In the event of warning sirens, leave everything behind, move to higher ground, and follow the local authorities’ advice. There are several active volcanoes in Vanuatu , and you will probably visit one of them, Mt. Yasur volcano on Tanna Island. Follow the advice of the local guide when visiting them and check the latest volcanic activity advice on Vanuatu Meteorological and Geo-Hazards Department website. 

• VACCINATIONS There are no obligatory vaccinations for Vanuatu. There are recommended ones from the World Health Organisation (WHO) but consult your doctor before your visit. Recommended vaccines are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza. Have a look at the recommended Vanuatu vaccines here.
• MALARIA, DENGUE and ZIKA Malaria, Dengue, and Zika all occur in Vanuatu. Malaria is more common in the northern regions , but the risk is present on all islands. Including the main island Efate and the capital Port Vila. High-risk months for malaria are from November to April, which are also the wettest months. Consult with your doctor about taking anti-malaria medication if you’re traveling to affected areas. Dengue and Zika virus can occur anywhere in Vanuatu . Peak transmission months are in the rainy season, from November to April. To prevent mosquito bites , use mosquito bite prevention measures: – ensure your accommodation has mosquito nets; – use an insect repellent with 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin; – wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) clothing and long sleeves at dusk and at night; – apply sunscreen first followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
• MONEY Vanuatu’s currency is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV or V) . In Port Vila and some resorts, you can use credit cards but with a 5% surcharge. When withdrawing money from the ATM, take out as much as possible to ‘lower’ the withdrawal charges. If visiting other islands and going outside Port Vila, always bring enough cash with you. There are no ATMs on Tanna Island, some on Espiritu Santo, and more on Efate Island. There is no bargaining at markets and tipping is not necessary. Tourist attractions are located on privately owned lands (like in Fiji and Samoa) and you will need to pay an entrance fee to visit them. If you are flying between the islands, a 200 VUV departure tax must be paid in cash at the airport before boarding your domestic flight .

• TRAVEL INSURANCE Make sure to purchase travel insurance before your travel. Medical facilities are limited on the outer islands. If you get injured while hiking the volcano, or get ill because of the mosquito bite, chances are high you will need to get evacuated. Without travel insurance, this can be REALLY expensive. Buy one from your home country provider or find the best option with Safety Wing . In case you forgot, with Safety Wing you can get one when already abroad!
• SAFETY TIPS Is Vanuatu safe? Vanuatu is safe , even for solo female travelers , but it still doesn’t hurt to use common sense. Don’t flash your valuables. Don’t walk alone after dark.
• DRESS CODE Majority of the population is Christian . You should dress modestly, and wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Wearing a bikini on a beach is perfectly fine. Wear breathable, light clothing at dusk and down because of the mosquitos.

6. Twelve days in Vanuatu itinerary

Day 1: arrival to vanuatu and transfer to port vila.

Arrive in Vanuatu. Start your Vanuatu itinerary by flying into Vanuatu. You will most probably land at the Bauerfield International Airport on Efate Island. The airport is close to the capital Port Vila and easily accessible by public transport. After clearing any formalities, take a moment to exchange some currency to Vanuatu Vatu or withdraw cash from the ATMs available. Just a small amount to have it ready for the bus or taxi. You can exchange the rest of it in a bank in Port Vila.

PRO TIP If you plan to visit the outer islands and areas outside the main city, always carry some local currency on hand. They might not have ATMs or won’t accept Credit Cards.

My flight from Brisbane , Australia, to Port Vila, Vanuatu, should have arrived around 9 pm but it was delayed. Luckily I booked a private driver to pick me up before I landed. To be safe and stress-free which turned out to be an amazing decision. Later on, I found out that one of the Vanuatu leaders passed away and was transported back to the country on the same plane I was on. So there were no taxi drivers, busses or other transport options at the airport. Because of the repatriation ceremony, the usual 15-20 minute ride from the airport to Port Vila , took us a little bit more than an hour. Technically this should not even count as a day in Vanuatu itinerary. But if your plane arrives early, you will have more time to explore Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila.

Where to stay in Port Vila, Efate Island: The place where I stayed (Raynold’s Board and Lodge), close to Vanuatu National Museum, stopped renting rooms. Instead, look at some other accommodation options in Port Vila. • South Pacific Memories has cute bungalows, breakfast included in the price, free bikes and private parking; • In Breakas Beach Resort you can swim in their infinity pool or on a private beach, indulge in great food, and stay only 5 min drive away from Port Vila; • By booking Ramada Resort by Wyndham Port Vila you will sleep in a beachfront resort with a private beach and outdoor swimming pool.

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Port Vila accommodations to book online.

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DAY 2: Port Villa, Mele Cascades, and underwater Post office on Hideaway Island

Start your first official day in Vanuatu exploring the capital Port Vila and its surroundings. I started my morning nowhere else than at the Port Vila Central Market . This is the largest market in Vanuatu, selling fresh fruits, vegetables, snacks, and traditional handicrafts. The market is open every day . All day during weekdays and in the morning on Sundays. If your accommodation is not serving breakfast, this is a great place to fill up your stomach . I do not exaggerate telling you that I saw papayas bigger than my hand and had the most delicious avocados for breakfast. I love markets because they are a perfect place to engage with friendly locals, sample fresh tropical fruits, and get a boost of dopamine from scents, smells, and sounds.

After the market catch a transport from Port Vila to Mele Cascades . The cost of the ride is acceptable VT300 (4 AUD/2,3 EUR), for a 10 km ride. But the entrance fee to the evergreen Cascades Waterfall is a tourist rip-off . I’m more than happy to support local communities but VT2000 (25 AUD/15 EUR) is a bit too much.

I was really excited to see the 35-meter Evergreen Cascades Waterfall . I mean, I came all the way there to see it. But locals at my guesthouse were saying the price was too high, and not worth it. And I heard the same from tourists coming out from the Mele Cascades.  So, I had the full intent to go inside and was there, but didn’t go inside . It just didn’t feel right plus I didn’t have water shoes, and the place was crowded. Since there were people on organized tours to the Mele Cascades . I’m not regretting it since we have plenty of waterfalls in Slovenia.

After your Mele Cascades adventure, head to Hideaway Island . Visiting Hideaway Island is one of the top things to do in Vanuatu. Close to the shore of the island, you will find the only underwater post office in the world . The entrance fee is VT1500 (18 AUD/11,5 EUR) and you can send a postcard from it for VT400 (5 AUD/3 EUR). Since I didn’t visit the Mele Cascades, I returned to Port Vila just in time to visit the Vanuatu National Museum. There is a VT1000 (13 AUD/8 EUR) entrance fee for an educational visit where you learn all about traditional Vanuatu sand drawings and instruments. After your sightseeing day, have dinner in one of the resorts on the beachfront, or go to Iririki Island. I had a homecooked dinner at the guesthouse , where the lady prepared a traditional Vanuatu dinner with pork, yam, and taro. It was delicious.

ALSO READ: • Vanuatu Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown

DAY 3: Nagol land diving Pentecost Island tour

If you want to experience something adventurous, historical, jaw-dropping, and traditional, go on Nagol Land diving tour . I can GUARANTEE you, you will not regret it! Seeing Nagol (Nahgol, N’gol, Nangol, Nanggol) or land diving ritual was one of my bucket list activities and the main reason why I came to Vanuatu. The day tour to Pentecost was supposed to be later on in my Vanuatu itinerary. But the weather did its thing. At first tour was canceled and later I got a spot to do it a few days earlier. 

DON’T FORGET Pentecost Island day tours run from Port Vila . If this is also on your travel bucket list, be flexible with the rest of your Vanuatu itinerary.

I went to Pentecost with Air Taxi Vanuatu . The tour lasts for 8 hours and it starts with a pick-up from your Port Vila hotel. From Port Vila airport, you fly in a small aircraft 200 km north to Pentecost Island. They run on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from April to June . On Pentecost, the transfer is waiting to take you to one of the villages on the south of the island. There you are free to walk in the village. The highlight of the tour is seeing young men jumping off the wooden tower with only lianas attached to their ankles, as part of the Naghol or Land diving ritual. Before you return to Port Vila on a scenic flight, you are served lunch in a village. Tour is not the cheapest, VT53,000 (640 AUD/390 EUR) but it is worth every Dollar, Euro or Vanuatu vatu. An unforgettable lifetime experience and one of the best things to do in Vanuatu. If you will still have the energy to explore, go to Iririki Island , just off the coast of Port Vila. There are nice beaches to swim or just relax under the palm trees. I was having dinner with other tourists from the Pentecost Island tour. You can read my Nagol Land diving tour review here or have a look what it was like .

DAY 4: Tour around Efate Island

Another day on the main island of Vanuatu. If you are traveling to Vanuatu with a group or as a couple, you might consider renting a car . I didn’t want to spend another day in Port Vila or rent a car on my own, so I joined an Island tour with BBQ lunch . We visited the Blue Lagoon and Eden on the River , the cultural village and the Turtle sanctuary. There were 4 people on the tour so it didn’t feel too crowded for my taste. Guide was speaking English and French. Tour starts in Port Vila and from there you visit a cultural village . There you learn about the history, life, and customs of Ni-Van people . Stories about cannibalism, how they use spider webbing for fishing, hunting, knowing which fish are poisonous and more.

Then we went to the Blue Lagoon where we had time to swim in crystal clear water. The day of the tour was a no-cruise ship day, so it was a bit quieter. After we went to Eden on the River. Our final stop before going back was a small turtle sanctuary . Some people got to feed them and swim with them but I saw turtles in other places so was not participating in this activity. Island tour is a good half-day tour to break up your day, and perfect if you don’t want to spend the whole day on the beach. Blue Lagoon was the highlight for me.

Tour was fine but I wasn’t that impressed, I would rate it 3.8 out of 5. Probably because I was still under a strong impression from the land diving tour the day before, which was a dream come true and one of my best days in Vanuatu.

ALSO READ: • Epic Nagol Land Diving Pentecost Island Tour: Vanuatu Bungee Jumping

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DAY 5: Fly to Tanna and transfer to Mount Yasur area

Today you are going to visit yet another island in the Vanuatu archipelago . Visiting Tanna and its main attraction Mount Yasur volcano was a second bucket list item on my Vanuatu itinerary. The first one was Naghol land diving , the second one was the Yasur volcano tour and the third one was celebrating my birthday on Champagne beach. Before you get to Tanna, plan to spend here at least 2-3 days . Mount Yasur is an active volcano and one of the world’s most accessible ones as well. If the volcano is too active, or if the weather is bad the tour might get canceled. This happened to me but I planned ahead and was able to do a Volcano hike on my last day on Tanna Island.

Also, make sure you have enough cash with you since ATMs are very limited. Plus if you are staying in some of the bungalows overlooking Mt. Yasur, cash is the way to go and there might not have electricity or accept card payments. Bring snacks and warm clothes . Direct flight from Port Vila to Tanna with Air Vanuatu only takes 40 minutes offering some amazing views during your flight. I’ve had a mid-day flight to Tanna Island White Grass Airport. I took a bus from Port Vila VT 150 (1,8 AUD/1,2 EUR) to the airport.

Now, the next part of Tanna itinerary will depend on where you will stay on the island. Basically, Tanna is a small island and accommodation options are limited. If possible, book yours in advance ! I haven’t and was struggling to book one last minute. You will find resorts on the West side of the island, closer to the airport, and bungalows and tree houses on the East side of the island, around the Mount Yasur area. I was staying in the Mount Yasur area. If you are staying in nicer and more modern accommodations on the West side , you can spend your afternoon snorkeling of visiting one of the blue holes. Great accommodation in that area is White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa offering complimentary Airport Transfers. As mentioned earlier, I stayed in an accommodation with Mt. Yasur view . First, because it was easier to get on a tour, and second because I always wanted to stay in a treehouse and have a front-row view of the volcano. Service is basic , with limited WiFi and electricity. But the experience is genuine and one of a kind.

I have had my transport from the airport to the accommodation arranged with my hotel. I paid VT 4000 (48 AUD/31 EUR) from White Grass Airport on Tanna island to my Mt. Yasur view accommodation. The drive took us around two hours . It was raining heavily and the ‘roads’ were non-existent. It was only me in the car and the driver/accommodation owner stopped at the store so I could buy snacks and water . Trust me, you will need both of those things so stack up! The drive was first through the forest and a bit uphill, but then we started to descend. Along the way, we stopped many times to see the ash plains of Mount Yasur and Tanna coastline. Seeing the black ash-filled landscape, the grounds shaking every now and then was surreal. It felt like landing on Mars.

The closer we were driving to the volcano, the scarier it looked. In some parts, we were able to see the smoke coming out of the ground . The smell of rotten eggs was getting stronger. I was really impatient and too excited to go up. But the volcano was too active that day, and the weather was not nice, so all the tours were canceled . Hopefully tomorrow! After I arrived at the Castle Tree House And Bungalow I got my very own tree house , with a view of the volcano. It was basic but super nice . The view was worth it. I also ordered some dinner and that was it for the night. The night was cold, windy and it rained. I didn’t sleep very well, since I was admiring red lava at every volcano eruption . Magnificent to watch! And frightening. At every eruption, there was a ground shake that was felt even more high up on the tree. Where to stay in Tanna: • White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa on the West Coast of Tanna is close to the airport and offers complimentary airport transfers. They have a private beach, free Wifi, a pool, a spa, and dining options. • Castle Tree House And Bungalow on the East Coast is where I stayed. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and has a homey, traditional feel with a free breakfast. They can help with organizing tours.

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Tanna accommodations to book online.

DAY 6: Melanesian Kastom village

Full day for activities on Tanna Island . Choose between hot springs, going to the beach, ash boarding, visiting a kastom village, volcano tour … It was pouring down with rain, so I was stuck at my accommodation. I was not the happiest since I was planning to do all sorts of activities. But, there was nothing I could do. You can’t fight Mother Nature. The owner of the bungalows said that the tours to the volcano will (again) not operate today. Bad weather and high volcano activity level. Fingers crossed, I might do it tomorrow. Luckily, it cleared up by midday so I could visit a kastom Latapo village close by and paid VT1500 (18 AUD/12 EUR). Bring cash!

Most people visit the Yakel Tribe’s village on the other side of the island. Yakel is also the tribe showcased in the Tanna movie , which I highly recommend watching. It displays kastom traditions on the island, there is (of course) a love story and Mount Yasur Volcano. You can say this is Vanuatu’s version of Romeo and Juliet. Visiting Melanesian Kastom village in Vanuatu will be like stepping back in time . You will be greeted by men, women, and kids wearing traditional clothes, lavalava skirts, nambas, and leaves. Then they will show you their custom traditions. How to use various leaves, how to make a lavalava skirt from hibiscus plants, how to make fire with sticks and dry wood.

You will also see them dancing and singing . Women and men individually and then together. A beautiful site, especially with the Mount Yasur volcano in the background. If you are lucky, they will invite you to come and dance with them. Later they will show you plants they use for food (taro, yam, sweet potato), herbal medicines on-site, and trees surrounding them, including a huge banyan tree. The Kastom village visit lasted for a couple of hours and it was well worth the visit . Back in my accommodation I ordered some dinner and went to bed hoping I will be lucky enough to do the Mount Yasur hike tomorrow.

DAY 7: Mount Yasur volcano hike

Another day reserved for different activities on Tanna . Visiting hot springs, going to the beach, ash boarding, visiting a kastom village, volcano tour, black magic tour … This was my last day on Tanna Island. It was drizzling but I was still happy when I found out that the volcano tours would operate today . Yes! After a lovely lunch, I took a scenic walk through the jungle to get to the entrance of Mount Yasur Volcano Safari . Going through the jungle on ‘local paths’ it would be 15-20 minutes. I took the safer approach and chose the road. It took me around 50 minutes (15 minutes drive). 

Mount Yasur is one of the most easily accessible active volcanoes in the world. It is a 361 m (1184 ft) high volcano, with daily strombolian eruptions recorded since 1774, when it was discovered by Captain James Cook . I decided to go on a twilight tour and paid VT8000 (96 AUD/62 EUR). Volcano tour starts with a special ceremony. Then you are taken on a short jeep ride to the parking spot on the top. Here you can see another amazing location for a post office. After you have to do a moderate hike to the rim of the volcano.

Going on a tour, following the rules of the local guides is paramount. With each eruption the grounds are shaking, there are no handrails to protect you from falling and you have to mind every step. Plus the ash and rotten eggs smell is not helping. Views of the 400 m summit crater are spectacular and the surrounding area is magnificent. Fields and traces of dry lava fields and lush green jungle behind it. We stopped at the viewpoint and waited for the sunset. The tour is filled with adrenaline. Standing on the volcano’s edge, with LOUD eruptions, HORRIBLE smell, ash everywhere you look and flying lava … I am not sure how safe this actually is. It is scary. It is exciting. It is raw. It’s nature.  You can read a whole Mount Yasur volcano hike here with tips for visiting.

Below is one of the eruptions . You can see the sound (ash) wave before the ‘bam’.

I was happy to get the chance and climb an active volcano! But I was also happy to go down . I shouldn’t have to mention, that I was covered in ash ! And I had a buzzing sound in my ears. If you have, bring sunglasses, earplugs and a face mask. Thank me later! I asked my accommodation to pick me up after the end of the tour . It was pitch black dark and didn’t want to get lost. From the volcano tour to accommodation, I paid VT1500 (18 AUD/10 EUR). Was Mount Yasur volcano tour worth it? Absolutely! No doubt about it! It is scary but unforgettable experience! An absolute must to include in Vanuatu itinerary .

MT. YASUR VOLCANO HIKE TIPS • There will be a lot of ash flying around and you will be covered in it. • Bring warm clothes so that you won’t feel bad for them when covered in ash. Plus it gets cold at the top. • Wear sturdy shoes. You are going to the top of an active volcano! • If you are having asthma or breathing problems, bring a mask or something to cover your nose and mouth with. Did I mention the ash? • I was wearing sunglasses because ash was everywhere and my eyes were all in tears trying to take it out. • Bring a water pouch or a bag to protect your phone and camera from the ash. • Explosions are LOUD so bring earplugs. I didn’t have them (no one told me) which resulted in a ringing and buzzing sound for the next few days. • The rotten eggs smell is indescribable. At some eruptions almost makes you gag. So if you have, bring a scented mask or scented tissues. • Don’t forget your headlamp or a torch. • Have baby wipes to wash away the ash when getting back from the volcano.

DAY 8: Fly to Espiritu Santo and transfer to Luganville

Leave Tanna and fly to Espirito Santo , or Santo, the biggest island in Vanuatu. This will be the last leg of your Vanuatu itinerary island hopping . Depending on the day, you might get a direct flight with Air Vanuatu from Tanna to Santo. If not, you will have to switch planes in Port Vila. I started my day bright and early. First, for the transfer from Mt. Yasur to Tanna Airport. I paid VT2500 (30 AUD/20 EUR). My direct flight to Santo was changed, so I had to fly to Efate first and then to Santo. All good, but that meant I had to pay departure tax twice . In Luganville, I got a taxi from the airport to my accommodation and had dinner in a local restaurant. Where to stay on Espiritu Santo: • I stayed at Deco Stop Lodge . At the time they had a dorm room, but since I was the only one there, it was like having a private room. They have a pool, and are a short 10-minute walk from Luganville. They also help you book tours and have bikes for rent available. • Two other great places to stay in Luganville are The Espiritu and Hotel Santo Vanuatu .

🇻🇺 “What is Anja’s favorite part of Vanuatu?” I like seeing Pentecost, but in general, my favorite part of Vanuatu itinerary is Tanna.

WANT MORE OPTIONS? Visit this page to see all available Santo accommodations to book online.

DAY 9: Luganville and Millenium Cave adventure

Sign up for the Millennium cave tour . You will get wet but your day will be full of adventure and this might as well be the best thing to do in Santo. If you can, add it to your Vanuatu itinerary. Money from the tour, VT7500 (90 AUD/57 EUR), goes back to the local villages you will see on the tour. So by going on it, you will actually help the local community . I was hesitant to sign up for the tour at first. But contrary to what people were saying for the Mele Cascades, all the tourists and locals were raving about this one. So I decided to go. It is fun, exciting, and adventurous. You need to be in a physical condition to do it as it is not a moderate hike. You will be walking on slippery surfaces, ascending, descending, walking in cave and more. Harder and more exciting than the Narrows in Zion. Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet (because they will). If you choose to bring a phone, wear a waterproof bag to protect it.

DAY 10: Million dollar point and Blue holes

Espiritu Santo is a mecca for divers , famous for diving the SS President Coolidge . If you are a diver, including Santo in your Vanuatu itinerary is a must. Spend your day checking some must-do things in Santo. Like diving or snorkeling on Million Dollar Point and visiting Blue holes in the afternoon if you have some time and energy left. I rented a bike for the day.

My first stop was Million Dollar Point , which is a must-visit in Santo. The entrance fee is VT500 or AU$5 if you pay in Australian dollars. I don’t dive but I do snorkel. At Million Dollar Point, you can see where Americans dumped millions of dollars worth of equipment at the end of World War II. All the ‘equipment’ is right off the shore. You can see tanks, tops, wheels … I didn’t feel comfortable looking at all of it, so I left rather quickly.

I spend the afternoon cycling exploring and swimming in the Blue Holes. Blue holes are inland natural freshwater springs . They are blue oases in the middle of the tropical jungle, that get their color from the minerals, depth of the blue hole and water purity. I visited three blue holes in Santo : Riri blue hole , Matevulu blue hole and Nanda blue hole or Jackie’s blue hole. There is a VT500 (6 AUD/4 EUR) entrance free for Riri and Matevulu and VT1000 (12 AUD/6 EUR) entrance fee for Nanda Blue Hole.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL TIP Colors of the holes are insanely pure and the water is super clean. Let’s keep it that way! At some blue holes, there are showers to wash yourself BEFORE entering the blue hole. Make sure, you don’t use sunscreen, or repellent before jumping in! And if you absolutely have to, try to use natural brands.

My cycling day ended at Nanda Blue hole. I was just too exhausted to bike all the way back to Luganville. So I paid a local to drive me and a bike back to my accommodation.

DAY 11: Port Olry and Champagne Beach

Today you are going to spend a day relaxing on the North of Santo Island . Spend a day on a beach in Port Olry Beach and visit one of the best beaches in the world, Champagne Beach . Champagne Beach got its name from the volcanic gasses coming through the sand , so it looks like the beach is bubbling. You can also feel the bubbles when walking on the sand. The scenery is just perfect for some stunning Vanuatu photos . As with many beaches on other South Pacific Islands (Fiji, Samoa), there is a fee to enter . Champagne Beach is privately owned and the fee is VT2000 (19 AUD/15 EUR) per vehicle, or VT500 (6 AUD/4 EUR) for walk-ins. You you stay in one of the accommodations on Champagne beach , the entrance is free. With two other travelers, we rented a taxi for a day and paid VT4000 (48 AUD/31 EUR) each. It took us to all the sites on the East Coast, Blue Holes (the ones I visited yesterday), all the way up to Port Olry and Champagne Beach. We spent the whole day on the beach. Snorkeled, swam in the blue ocean, played with local kids, and had lobster lunch at one of the local restaurants.

ALSO READ: • 111 Beautiful Vanuatu Captions For Instagram

DAY 12: Espiritu Santo and departure

Time to say goodbye to Santo and Vanuatu . Depending on your International flight, you might have to take a flight to Port Vila first, so plan accordingly. My flight to Port Vila was in the morning and my outbound flight from Port Vila to Fiji was in the evening. So I had a whole day to spend in Port Vila. I visited Port Vila Market again, where I bought souvenirs and grabbed another delicious burger. All before my flight to another Island archipelago in the South Pacific where I spent the next 2 months.

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7. Final thoughts on How to spend 12 days in Vanuatu Itinerary

This Vanuatu itinerary is perfect for a first-time visitor to Vanuatu . It is a perfect combination of beaches, adventure, sightseeing, nature and history. You will have enough time to explore what different islands in the Vanuatu archipelago have to offer. 12 days in Vanuatu will be plenty of time for you to experience the vibe of different Vanuatu islands. I am positive you will be amazed at how every island offers different adventures and activities. From Mount Yasur volcano hike on Tanna to Naghol land diving on Pentecost , snorkeling on Million dollar Point and Efate with capital Port Vila. It will be hard to choose your favorite one. This itinerary for Vanuatu gives you enough time to visit some of the must-do places in Vanuatu, as it allows enough time to explore each island. Swimming in blue holes, learning about Melanesian Kastom culture , hiking an active volcano, and stepping back in time to see the origins of bungee jumping.

7. 1. Possible Vanuatu itinerary alternations

I would spend more time in Santo than in Efate. I would still advise you to book at least 3 days in Tanna, just to be sure that you can go up the Yasur volcano. If you are diving, spend more time on Santo. Make sure to do the dives at least 1 day before your flight . If visiting Vanuatu during the Naghol ritual , I would recommend going on a tour! If you don’t have 12 days for Vanuatu travel and are wondering “How many days in Vanuatu is enough?” I would say, to have at least 1 week in Vanuatu, but if possible 10 days in Vanuatu would be perfect. What to do in Vanuatu for a week? If you want to explore Vanuatu in 7 days , I would suggest visiting only two islands . Efate and eather Tanna or Santo. If you feel adventurous, you can perhaps book a Tanna volcano day tour. By spending 10 days in Vanuatu you can add 3 or even four islands to your Vanuatu itinerary or opt for a day tour to Pentecost Island. Regardless of how many days you can include in your Vanuatu itinerary , make sure to enjoy every moment on the Melanesian Islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Welcam, Anja

8. BONUS: Vanuatu travel planning guide

8.1. do i need travel insurance for vanuatu.

YES Enjoy peace of mind on your travels with a plan from SafetyWing . You can choose between monthly coverage or insurance for specific travel dates . They are one of the biggest names in the travel insurance world, and also give you the option to get insured while already abroad! Stay and be safe!

8.2. Do I need to book my accommodation in advance?

NO, BUT IT IS RECOMMENDED Accommodation in Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila and on the outer islands is limited. To avoid any unwanted stress, I would recommend booking places to stay in advance or before you arrive . Booking.com has a great feature on some stays, where you can reserve your room and cancel it for free if your plans change.

8.3. Will my phone work in Vanuatu?

MAYBE It depends on your mobile provider and the plan you are on. There is WiFi in some hotels, but some basic accommodations do not have it. You can buy a local Sim card once there or travel carefree and buy an Airalo eSim before your travels.

8.4. Is it safe to rent a car in Vanuatu?

YES Renting a car in Vanuatu is safe with some precautions. Check the rates at Discover Cars to make sure renting pays off. You will potentially only need a car on Efate and Espiritu Santo, to avoid paying for a taxi and have more freedom to explore.

8.5. Do I have to book tours in Vanuatu before I arrive?

SOME OF THEM You can explore areas in Vanuatu without a tour, like Port Vila and Efate Island. You can also go snorkeling at Million Dollars Point and swim in Blue Holes on your own. For others, like Pentecost land diving tour , and Mount Yasur volcano hike, I would book a tour in advance. Viator offers more tours in Vanuatu than GetYourGuide (which I used to book airport transfer).

➤ What you should read next …

• Epic Nagol Land Diving Pentecost Island Tour: Vanuatu Bungee Jumping • Vanuatu Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown • 111 Beautiful Vanuatu Captions For Instagram • Best Ways of Tracking Travel Expenses During a Trip • Ultimate traveler safety guide: What to do during an earthquake

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✈ Travel Resources | Travel more & Spend less

Are you ready to travel like a PRO? Save time and money with these travel tips and resources . I personally use these companies to save time and money. They do the work by providing a list of options, prices, and reviews from actual guests, for anywhere I am traveling worldwide. ✈️ FLIGHTS: I use Skyscanner in combination with Google Flights to find amazing flight fares (try the Explore feature). I book directly with an airline or pair it with Iwantthatflight for the best deals. 🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is my favorite site for finding great hotel deals. They return the best rates and reviews are from actual guests! 🚘 RENTAL CARS: Discover Cars are my go-to, when planning an epic road trip. 🗽 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: I like to wander around on my own, but when I want to explore with a group, skip the line with an entrance ticket, I book it with GetYourGuide or Viator . ❤️‍🩹 TRAVEL INSURANCE: I never, under any circumstances travel without insurance. In most cases, I use yearly global travel medical insurance. But, if you don’t have that and some impromptu travel plans occur, use SafetyWing . With them, you can buy travel insurance even when you are already abroad. Better be safe, than sorry! 📲 ONLINE SAFETY: NordVPN keeps your devices’ browsing safe and malware-free. Stream shows from around the world, access social media in countries where they are blocked and buy cheap flights by changing your virtual location. 🛜 STAY CONNECTED WITH eSIM: Ditch the plastic SIM cards and waiting in lines at the airport! Airalo eSIMs allow you to connect as soon as you land at your destination. They have eSIMs for over 190+ countries worldwide.

🗨 FAQ related to Vanuatu Itinerary

What does the name vanuatu mean.

The name “Vanuatu” is believed to have two possible origins. One interpretation is that it’s derived from the Austronesian word “vanua,” which means “land” or “home.” The addition of the suffix “-tu” emphasizes the collective nature, making it “Our Land” or “Land of the People.” Another interpretation suggests that “Vanuatu” could be a combination of two local Melanesian words, “vanua” and “tu,” which together convey the idea of “many islands.” Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific, and the name reflects its diverse archipelago made up of numerous islands.

How many days do I need to plan for my Vanuatu itinerary?

The ideal duration for a visit to Vanuatu can vary but in general I would recommend spending at least 1 week in Vanuatu. If you want to explore Vanuatu in 7 days, I would suggest visiting only two islands. Efate and eather Tanna or Santo. If you feel adventurous, you can perhaps book a Tanna volcano day tour. If you have time, spend 10 days in Vanuatu to fully experience the diverse culture, natural beauty, and adventure opportunities on different islands. By spending 10 days in Vanuatu you can visit 3 or even four islands or opt for a day tour to Pentecost Island. For more Vanuatu travel tips, Vanuatu itinerary ideas and what to see in Vanuatu visit Anja On Adventure blog. 

Is Vanuatu worth visiting?

Yes, Vanuatu is an often overlooked Melanesian destination in the South Pacific Ocean and often considered a bucket list destination for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, diving sites, kastom cultural experiences, vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It is also worth mentioning that it is the 4th happiest nation in the world. For Vanuatu itinerary ideas, Vanuatu cost of travel and Vanuatu places to visit, visit Anja On Adventure blog.

What is the best time to visit Vanuatu?

The best time to visit is between April to September. This is Vanuatu’s dry season, with sunny days and less humidity. For diving, the best month are July-August. If you want to see a Land diving ritual, you should come from mid-April to mid-June.  For more Vanuatu travel tips, Vanuatu itinerary ideas and what to see in Vanuatu visit Anja On Adventure travel blog.

Which islands should I include in Vanuatu itinerary?

Vanuatu is an archipelago consisting of 83 islands. Here are some recommended bigger islands you should consider visiting. Efate (capital Port Vila), Tanna (Mount Yasur volcano, traditional villages, and Yakel Tribe), Espiritu Santo (Blue Holes, white-sand beaches, and World War II relics), Pentecost (land diving ceremonies), Ambrym. For more about Vanuatu itinerary on Anja On Adventure Vanuatu travel blog section.

❥ About Anja On Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

About the author: Anja

For updates on Air Vanuatu, click here for more information.

FAQ for TRAVEL PROTOCOL

We know that travel looks a little different in this post-Covid world. It’s normal to have a few questions to make sure you get to where you’re going and stay safe while you’re travelling!

Here are the answers to a handful of common questions about travel to Vanuatu, to make sure you feel confident since our borders reopened to international visitors on the 1st of July.

What do I need to do before I travel to Vanuatu to ensure I can enter the country? As of July 1st, 2022, all travellers aged to two (2) years and over MUST provide at the airlines check-in desk for any international flights to Vanuatu evidence of:

• Negative COVID-19 PCR test done 24 to 72 hours before scheduled departure from travel origin, OR • Negative COVID-19 supervised certified RAT done within 24 hours of departure, OR • Positive COVID-19 RAT or PCR test at least 8 days BUT no more than 2 months before the date of departure.

There is no requirement to upload the test results. However this is subject to change. We will communicate in due course.

1. The evidence of a negative result will need to be provided in advance of travel and made available at the airline check-in desk for the international flight to Vanuatu 2. The same test result will need to be presented to the border control agent upon arrival in Vanuatu 3. The evidence of negative test result can be shown in hand copy (printed hard copy) or displayed on a smart device (smartphone).

If there are one or more international transit or connecting flight to Vanuatu the departure time should be considered from the initial origin from the first flight (leg).

If flights are delayed but the departure occurs within 72 hours of the scheduled departure time, then a new negative RAT or PCR test is not required.

If flights are delayed but the departure occurs within over 72 hours of the initial scheduled departure time, then a new negative RAT or PCR test is required.

Is there anything else I need to have before travelling to Vanuatu? YES!

1. Travellers on tourist visa must: a. have a confirmed returned ticket to country of origin b. a confirmed accomodation at an accredited tourist facility* : hotel, motel, bungalow, resort  OR  a letter of invitation from sponsor in Vanuatu

For more information, please check here.

*An accredited tourism property or facility means it was certified by the Vanuatu Government Department of Tourism, with a valid tourism permit. See attached the list of the accredited tourism businesses -  2022_Tourism_Accommodation.pdf

For more information on the list of the Exempt and non-Exempt countries to the Vanuatu Tourism Visa, please click on the link,  Countries_requiring_visa_or_No_Visa_for_Vanuatu_2022.pdf

Only citizens from NON-EXEMPT countries will be required to apply for a Tourism Visa, by completing the attached form and returning it to the Vanuatu Department of Immigrations and Passport Services prior to travel, for approval.

Tourism Visa will be granted upon arrival by the Vanuatu Department of Immigrations and Passport Services to all traveling citizens of EXEMPT countries.

To download the Tourism Visa form, please click on the link,  Tourism___Visa.docx

Failure to provide a confirmed booking, with an accredited tourism property may results to denied boarding or refusal by the Vanuatu Government Department Immigration.

2. Travellers and/or Vanuatu residents on residence visa, student visa, business visa or special category visa MUST have a valid existing visa before boarding any flight to Vanuatu.

For any further information on these additional border measures and conditions, please contact, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Is there anything I need to know during my stay in Vanuatu?

There is two important things you need to know while staying in Vanuatu:

A well fitted mask is required to be worn by all travellers aged 12 years and over during an air flight to Vanuatu and inside the airport arrival terminal.

2. Exemptions

Those with a valid medical certificate issued by a medical practitioner may be exempt from wearing a mask. The certificate must be presented at the airline check-in desk prior to departure.

When I get to Vanuatu, will I need to quarantine or do an arrival test?

You won’t need to quarantine or do any testing upon arrival.

All provinces and islands of Vanuatu are currently under recovery level 1 of the Vanuatu Ministry of Healths Roadmap to safe border reopening. This means all provinces and islands are currently open and have no domestic travel restrictions.

The above requirements also applies to those entering Vanuatu by sea, if there have not developed any Covid-19 symptoms and there has been no confirmed exposure to COVID-19. These will be assessed by the Maritime Border Control.

Will I need to be vaccinated to visit Vanuatu?

We encourage all people to follow the health advice and ensure they are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. This helps keep us all safe. No proof of vaccination will be required for any traveler and/or age.

What if I’ve recently had Covid-19?

If you’ve recently had Covid-19, we know that you may still present a positive reading on a PCR or RAT. If this is the case, you can produce a certificate of infection and recovery from Covid-19 within 28 days of departure to be issued by a certified medical practioner.

What happens if I test positive for Covid-19 while in Vanuatu?

Any travellers who test positive to COVID-19 or who have developed symptoms of COVID-19 and can not get tested will need to isolate for seven (7) days.

You’ll need to isolate for seven days in a managed government designated and approved facility - This may include hotels and resorts or other government health centres subject to availability.

for citizens, permanent residence or those visiting family and friends, home isolation is permitted.

for other foreign visitors, hotels and resorts with approved isolation standard operating procedures (SOP) certified by the Department of Tourism through the Safe Business Operations program.

What happens at the  end of my isolation ?

Release from isolation will be allowed after seven(7) days have passed since the first positive test or since symptoms first developed, if there has been no fever for the past three(3) days , and any symptoms are improving.

Release from isolation does not required a negative PCR or a negative RAT test result.

Foreign nationals are to meet all medical and travel expenses in Vanuatu for any aliments and injuries including COVID-19. This also applies to those travellers visiting families and friends.

Travel insurance is encouraged to cater for any unforeseen expenses and circumstances.

Who do I speak to in Vanuatu if I have any questions during my trip?

The Vanuatu Government has a dedicated Covid-19 hotline: please call 119 if you have any questions. Note this is a local number.

What Covid-19 protocols will I have to follow during my trip? Travellers and locals in Vanuatu will be called on to play their part in keeping everyone safe. Everyone will be asked to: • Practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing. • Practice physical distancing, maintaining at least 1.5 metres distance from others. • Sign-in or check-in anywhere you go. • Wear a mask in indoor public spaces.

How else is the Vanuatu Government working to keep travellers and locals safe? The safety of locals and visitors to Vanuatu is paramount.

Aside from implementing the protocols listed above, the Vanuatu Government and the Department of Tourism have launched the Safe Business Operations (SBO) program.

You can read a full description of the program here , however as an overview:

• The SBO program trains Vanuatu’s tourism and hospitality businesses to ensure they have enhanced cleaning, personal hygiene and protection measures in place to combat the spread of Covid-19. • All businesses that have undertaken the SBO training will:         o Have a dedicated Covid-19 safety officer that is up to date on guidelines and protocols and that will be a point of contact for you should you have any questions.         o Be ‘Triple C Certified’ – this stands for clean, caring and checked and it means the business offers enhanced safety measures. You can spot these businesses via a special Triple C Certified logo on their website, social media or at the place of business itself, and it’s a way for you to easily identify which accommodation providers or tour operators offer this enhanced level of safety and protection.

Will I be able to visit all of Vanuatu’s provinces from the 1st of July onwards?

According to the Vanuatu Ministry of Health’s Roadmap to Safe Border Reopening, provinces and islands that have reached Health Recovery Level 1 status (meaning they are well vaccinated and their Covid-19 situation is stable) are open to the international visitors from the 1st of July onwards.

Efate (Port Vila) and Sanma (Luganville) have reached this status, and we invite you to visit Ministry of Health's website to view the most up to date information on specific provinces/islands and their statuses.

You can read more about Vanuatu’s Roadmap to reopening here.

It’s important to know that the entry requirements and protocols detailed above are subject to change. For more information on Vanuatu’s entry requirements and visiting Vanuatu from 1 July, go here .

We will also publish relevant updates on the Vanuatu Tourism Office Facebook page, which you can follow here .

Click on the below banner for everything you need to know when travelling to Vanuatu. Lukim yu! (See you soon!)

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China Fully Allows Visa-Free Entry for Foreign Tourist Groups on Cruise Ships

China’s immigration agency announced that it will grant a visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups to enter China by cruise at all cruise ports along the coast of China, starting May 15, 2024. The tourist group must remain with the same cruise ship until its next port of call and stay within permitted areas for no more than 15 days.

Effective May 15, 2024, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) has officially implemented a  visa-free policy  for foreign tourist groups entering China via cruise ships . This progressive move aims to enhance personnel exchanges and foster cooperation between China and other nations, furthering the country’s commitment to high-level openness.

Under this policy,  foreign tourist groups , comprising  two or more individuals , who travel by cruise ship and are organized by Chinese domestic travel agencies, can now enjoy  visa-free entry  as a cohesive group at cruise ports in  13 cities  along the Chinese coast.

These cities include:

• Dalian (Liaoning)
• Lianyungang (Jiangsu)
• Wenzhou (Zhejiang)
• Zhoushan (Zhejiang)
• Xiamen (Fujian)
• Qingdao (Shandong)
• Guangzhou(Guangdong)
• Shenzhen (Guangdong)
• Beihai (Guangxi)
• Haikou (Hainan)
• Sanya (Hainan)

The tourist group must remain with the same cruise ship until its next port of call and stay within China for no more than 15 days. The eligible areas for this policy are coastal provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities) and Beijing.

Furthermore, to support cruise tourism development, seven additional cruise ports—Dalian, Lianyungang, Wenzhou, Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beihai—have been included as applicable ports for visa-free transit.

Potential impact of the visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via cruise ships

The recent implementation of the visa-free policy for foreign tourist groups entering China via cruise ships is poised to have several significant effects. The policy will provide crucial support for the cruise economy  and the overall  cruise industry . By facilitating smoother travel for foreign tourist groups, it acts as a catalyst for  high-quality development  in this sector.

Additionally, under this policy, international cruise companies can strategically plan their global routes by designating Chinese port cities, such as Shanghai ,  Xiamen , and  Shenzhen , as docking destinations. This move is expected to attract more cruise ships to Chinese ports, ultimately bringing in a larger number of international visitors to the Chinese market.

Furthermore, this policy also encourages more foreign tourists to visit China for sightseeing.

In the first quarter of 2024, inbound tourism showed strong signs of recovery. According to data from the NIA , the number of foreign visitors to China in the first quarter had grown more than threefold compared to the same period in 2023.

Looking ahead to the second quarter, with continued favorable measures, such as streamlined entry payments and reciprocal visa exemptions, inbound tourism orders during the Labor Day holiday increased by over 100 percent on certain travel platforms in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chongqing. This trend is expected to persist in the coming months.

For more information about China’s visa-free policy and travel updates , please read our China Briefing articles here and here .

China Briefing is one of five regional Asia Briefing publications, supported by Dezan Shira & Associates . For a complimentary subscription to China Briefing’s content products, please click here .

Dezan Shira & Associates assists foreign investors into China and has done so since 1992 through offices in Beijing , Tianjin , Dalian , Qingdao , Shanghai , Hangzhou , Ningbo , Suzhou , Guangzhou , Dongguan , Haikou , Zhongshan , Shenzhen , and Hong Kong . We also have offices in Vietnam , Indonesia , Singapore , United States , Germany , Italy , India , and Dubai (UAE) and partner firms assisting foreign investors in The Philippines , Malaysia , Thailand , Bangladesh , and Australia . For assistance in China, please contact the firm at [email protected] or visit our website at www.dezshira.com .

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