Destination Guide

Vanuatu, Pacific

The islands of Vanuatu (the Republic of Vanuatu) are some of the most beautiful in the South Pacific. This vast sprinkling of islands boasts extensive untouched rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls and some of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world. Vanuatu is the perfect destination spot for travellers dreaming of white sand beaches, blue water and an island full of treasures to explore. The beautiful landscape of Vanuatu also makes it an ideal location for island weddings and romantic honeymoon getaways.

Vanuatu has a somewhat volatile climate. The wet season of November to March can be rainy, but showers are short-lived and won't affect your holiday too much. This time of year also presents a risk of cyclones. The dry season, from April to October, is the best time of year to visit Vanuatu.

Getting in and around Vanuatu

Vanuatu Airport

When travelling to Vanuatu, you have the option to fly or sail into the capitol, Port-Vila, or into Luganville. Both cities have major ports that accommodate cruise lines and air travel.

Vanuatu has three airports - Port Vila/Bauerfield, Santo/Pekoa, and Tanna/White Grass. If flying is your choice of transportation, Vanuatu has its own airline, Air Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu has flights from the major airports in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Fiji and New Caledonia. If you are flying to Vanuatu from a location other than those listed, you will need to connect with an Air Vanuatu flight for a direct flight into Vanuatu.

If you prefer to sail to Vanuatu, your options are slightly more limited. P&O cruises and Carnival cruises offer regular tours through the islands of Vanuatu and the South Pacific.

Vanuatu Transport

For travelling from island to island, you again have your choice of air or sea travel. Air Vanuatu, offers flights between the islands. You can also catch a boat to neighbouring islands. For travelling short distances, banana boats are convenient, and for longer journeys there are ferries and cargo vessels.

For land travel, public transportation is available in Port-Vila, though has no fixed schedule. Bus trip fares are calculated per person and the drivers will take you wherever you want to go, much like a taxi. Taxis are also readily available within Port-Vila.

Vanuatu Car Hire

You may decide that you want to explore this beautiful place in your own car. Car hire is available from a range of car hire companies in Luganville and Port Vila.

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Vanuatu accommodation

Vanuatu accommodation is mostly of the island resort variety. Travellers to Vanuatu will have no problem finding a bungalow-esque establishment to put them up for a few days. However, as is typical of most island destinations, hotels in Vanuatu have wildly varying levels of quality. In general, a quality hotel is going to cost you, but could be well worth the investment.

Luxury

  • Iririki Island Resort & Spa is a well-known luxury resort throughout the South Pacific's travel community. Perfect for a romantic honeymoon or relaxing getaway.
  • Eratap Beach Resort is a small, secluded luxury resort where you will feel right at home.
    • Iririki Island Resort is a well-known luxury resort throughout the South Pacific's travel community. Perfect for a romantic honeymoon or relaxing getaway.Eratap Beach Resort is a small, secluded resort where you will feel right at home.

    Mid-range

  • Sunset Bungalows Resort is an adults-only establishment that guarantees a relaxing, romantic stay in Vanuatu.
  • Pacific Lagoon Apartments offers spacious apartments and very friendly staff, all of which make for a delightful trip to Vanuatu.
    • Lagoon Beach Resort Apartments offer new, spacious apartments and a very friendly staff, all of which make for a delightful trip to Vanuatu.Sunset Bungalows Resort Sunset Bungalows Resort is an adults-only establishment that guarantees a relaxing, romantic stay in Vanuatu.

    Budget

  • The Coral Motel and Apartments is comfortable and affordable for travellers looking to stay a while.
  • Pacific Paradise Motel is a convenient motel near the airport that offers the best value for your money.
    • The Coral Motel is a perfectly comfortable and affordable accommodation for travellers looking to stay a while. Tara Beach Resort is a beautiful, peaceful resort nearby all of Vanuatu's most exciting activities. ^ Back to top

    Things to do in Vanuatu

    Vanuatu is a nature lover's paradise. Travellers to Vanuatu can enjoy a wide variety of activities in the great outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Vanuatu's landscape.

  • Vanuautu Waterfalls and Rainforests. Vanuatu is home to untouched rainforests and beautiful waterfalls. Many tourists enjoy day hikes and exploration of the natural landscape. The most physically fit will enjoy the multi-day hike to the breathtaking Siri Falls and semi-active volcano, Mount Garet.
  • Vanuatu Island life at its best, which means lots of rest and relaxation. Select a luxury resort and enjoy spa treatments and sip cocktails on the beach.
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    Day trips in and around Vanuatu

  • Yasur Volcano is one of the most accessible, active volcanoes in the world. You can experience what it's like to be frighteningly close to a volcano that could erupt any day.
  • Snorkelling. Because much of Vanuatu's natural world and wildlife remain intact, tourists can experience some of the best snorkelling in the world. Grab your goggles and flippers and head to the beach to see colourful fish, reefs and coral landscapes.
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