planetbreezy

Tell me your feedback! Feedback:

Vanuatu

Photo by Slobodan Tomic on Unsplash

Vanuatu

Oceania

Vanuatu enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. Known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, it’s a paradise for snorkeling and diving. The islands feature unique volcanic formations, lush rainforests, and traditional villages. Experience the rich Melanesian culture through dance, music, and local cuisine. Whether hiking up active volcanoes or relaxing on the beach, Vanuatu offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Quick facts

Target stay

7-10 days

Cost

Standard

Safety

No data

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Places to Visit in Vanuatu

Map filters

Vanuatu

1. Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Known for the iconic Champagne Beach with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, the island also invites adventure enthusiasts to explore lush rainforests, scuba dive in vibrant coral reefs, and visit the famous underwater post office. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience traditional ceremonies, making Espiritu Santo an enchanting getaway.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

2. Port Vila

Port Vila, the vibrant capital of Vanuatu, boasts stunning natural beauty, a lively waterfront, and a rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and enjoy adventures like zip-lining and diving. The tranquil beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique attractions, such as the Ekasup Cultural Village and Mele Cascades, make it an exceptional destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Place type

City

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

3. Tanna Island

Tanna Island, a jewel in Vanuatu, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. The island is best known for the active Mount Yasur volcano, where visitors can witness lava eruptions and glowing craters. The rich indigenous culture is alive in traditional villages, where you can engage in unique ceremonies and local cuisine. Its lush rainforests and beautiful beaches offer perfect spots for relaxation and adventure, making it a remarkable destination for thrill-seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Active

Known for

Vanuatu

4. Pentecost Island

Pentecost Island, Vanuatu, is renowned for its captivating cultural experiences and natural beauty. The island is famous for the Naminaru land diving ritual, where brave locals leap from high wooden towers, showcasing their strength and connection to tradition. Visitors can explore lush rainforests, pristine waterfalls, and village life, making it a haven for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike. With friendly locals, vibrant marine life, and stunning landscapes, Pentecost offers a unique escape off the beaten path.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Other

Known for

Vanuatu

5. Malekula

Malekula is a hidden gem in Vanuatu, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can explore traditional villages, witness unique customs and dances, and embark on snorkeling adventures in crystal-clear waters. The island offers beautiful beaches like Norsup Beach, lush hiking trails, and opportunities to encounter diverse wildlife including colorful birds and tropical fish. With its warm hospitality and untouched beauty, Malekula is a perfect escape for adventurous travelers seeking authentic experiences.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

6. Vanua Lava

Vanua Lava, the second largest island in Vanuatu, is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and lush rainforests. Adventure seekers can hike up the volcanic Mt. Takuan or explore the serene beaches along the coast. Snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs reveal a world teeming with marine life. With warm, welcoming locals and a rich array of traditions, Vanua Lava offers a unique experience that blends relaxation with exploration, making it a captivating destination for young travelers.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

7. Aneityum

Aneityum, the southernmost island of Vanuatu, is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and idyllic natural scenery. Visitors are captivated by the laid-back village life in Anelghowhat and the crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. With its striking landscapes and warm, welcoming locals, Aneityum offers an authentic escape into paradise, ideal for relaxation and adventure alike.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

8. Erromango

Erromango is Vanuatu's largest island, renowned for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, such as Port Sandwich, dive into vibrant coral reefs, and hike through tropical forests to discover spectacular waterfalls. The island's unique customs, artisanship, and local hospitality create an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the chance to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their traditions, making this an enriching destination for adventurous travelers.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

9. Ambae

Ambae, a stunning volcanic island in Vanuatu, is known for its lush tropical landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique attractions like the sacred Lake Vui. This island offers an authentic experience with opportunities to explore waterfalls, hidden caves, and the rich biodiversity of its rainforests. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions and enjoy breathtaking views from various vantage points, making it a perfect blend of adventure and cultural enrichment.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

10. Futuna

Futuna, one of Vanuatu's hidden gems, offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Known for its captivating rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and vibrant villages, visitors can experience traditional Melanesian culture first-hand. With breathtaking viewpoints and the pristine Tokam island nearby, Futuna is a paradise for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike. Explore its serene beaches and dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, making it ideal for a unique and immersive holiday.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

11. Ifira Island

Ifira Island is a hidden gem in Vanuatu, known for its stunning coastal views, vibrant coral reefs, and welcoming local culture. This tranquil island offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring lush landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm hospitality of the local community and enjoy traditional customs and cuisine. Its proximity to the bustling capital, Port Vila, makes Ifira the perfect escape for those seeking both serenity and cultural experiences.

Place type

Island

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

12. Vanuatu Archipelago

The Vanuatu Archipelago is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse marine life. Known for pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and thrilling adventure opportunities, it offers scuba diving in coral reefs, the mesmerizing Mount Yasur volcano, and rich cultural experiences in indigenous villages. This combination of relaxation, adventure, and cultural richness makes Vanuatu a must-visit for travelers seeking an unforgettable escape.

Place type

Island

Target stay

5-7 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Vanuatu

13. Luganville

Luganville, Vanuatu's second-largest town, is a paradise for adventurers and culture seekers alike. It offers stunning landscapes, rich World War II history, and vibrant local markets. The nearby Santo Island is home to breathtaking beaches and the famous Million Dollar Point, a unique dive site. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and opportunities for snorkeling and hiking, Luganville is an inviting destination to explore Vanuatu's natural beauty and heritage.

Place type

Town

Target stay

3-5 days

Vibe

Relaxing

Known for

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Vatu

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Lap Lap

A traditional root vegetable dish. (National dish)

Tuluk

A meat-filled pudding wrapped in leaves.

Santo Beef

Tender beef from the Santo region.

Coconut Crab

A delicacy made from fresh crab.

Simboro

A roll of coconut and fish wrapped in leaves.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)