Vanuatu

Oceania

Population: ~310,000 (2025 est.)

Capital: Port Vila

Official Language: Bislama, English, French

Time Zone

Vanuatu Standard Time (VUT), UTC+11

No daylight saving time observed

Sunrise ~06:30, sunset ~18:30

Currency

Vanuatu Vatu (VUV), symbol “Vt”

Cash is the preferred payment method, with credit cards accepted in major cities like Port Vila.

ATMs are available in Port Vila and Luganville, and currency exchange is available at banks and hotels.

National Day

July 30 – Independence Day (from France, 1980)

The day is celebrated with parades, performances, and traditional ceremonies to commemorate Vanuatu’s independence.

Culture

Vanuatu has a rich and diverse culture, shaped by the traditions of its 83 islands and over 100 distinct languages spoken. The culture places great importance on community, family, and respect for elders. Traditional ceremonies and festivals play a central role in social life, and many of these events are accompanied by vibrant music, dance, and feasts. The country’s heritage is deeply rooted in Melanesian customs, with a strong connection to the land and sea. Vanuatu is also known for its vibrant arts scene, including traditional wood carvings, tapa cloths, and handicrafts that reflect the country’s cultural diversity.

Music & Dance: Traditional music is an important part of Vanuatu's culture, with drumming, singing, and dancing performed during ceremonies and festivals.
Language & Identity: Vanuatu has three official languages: Bislama, English, and French. Bislama, a pidgin language, is the most widely spoken.
Crafts & Art: Vanuatu is known for its traditional arts, including wood carving, weaving, and tapa cloth making, which are integral to local life.
Cuisine: Vanuatu's cuisine is based on fresh seafood, root vegetables like yam and taro, and tropical fruits. Traditional dishes are often cooked in an earth oven called an "umu."
Religion & Customs: Christianity is the predominant religion, but traditional beliefs and practices are still observed, particularly in rural areas.

Tourism & Best Sites to Visit

Vanuatu is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear lagoons to lush rainforests and active volcanoes. Visitors can experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, hike to volcanic craters, or dive into the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs. With its friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and adventurous activities, Vanuatu is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Blue Lagoon

Efate Island

Mount Yasur

Tanna Island

Emerald Pool

Efate Island

Port Vila

Efate Island

Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon, located on Efate Island, is a stunning natural pool with turquoise waters surrounded by lush greenery. The lagoon is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the water. It’s a serene and picturesque location, ideal for visitors seeking peace and tranquility.
Mount Yasur
Mount Yasur is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, located on Tanna Island. Visitors can hike to the summit and witness live volcanic eruptions, a truly unique experience. The surrounding landscapes are rugged and beautiful, offering views of the fiery activity and the island’s fertile surroundings.
Emerald Pool
The Emerald Pool is a hidden gem located on Efate Island. This natural swimming pool is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and features clear green waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. The surrounding area also offers scenic walking trails, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Port Vila
Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, is a vibrant town offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the scenic harbor. Port Vila also serves as the gateway to Vanuatu’s attractions, including beaches, hiking trails, and cultural experiences.

Transportation

Transportation in Vanuatu is limited to road, air, and sea travel. The islands are relatively small, so many tourists rely on local taxis, rental cars, and boats to get around. Public buses are available in major towns, but domestic flights and ferries are the best way to travel between the islands.

Taxis: Available in Port Vila and other towns. Taxis are an easy way to get around the main islands.
Rental Cars: Rental cars are available in Port Vila, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Public Transport: Public buses serve some areas, but schedules can be irregular. They are primarily used within the main towns.
Ferries: Ferries connect the islands, providing access to the outer islands. Ferry rides offer scenic views of the coastlines and surrounding waters.
Domestic Flights: Vanuatu has a small domestic flight network, connecting major islands like Efate, Tanna, and Espiritu Santo.

Airports

Vanuatu is served by several airports, with the main international gateway located in Port Vila. Domestic flights are available to connect the main islands, and ferries provide transport to more remote regions.

Bauerfield International Airport (VLI): Located in Port Vila, this is Vanuatu’s primary international airport. It offers flights to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and other Pacific Islands.
Espiritu Santo Airport (SON): Serving the island of Espiritu Santo, this airport is a key hub for domestic flights to and from Port Vila.
Whitegrass Airport (Tanna): Located on Tanna Island, this small airport provides domestic flights to and from Port Vila, offering access to Mount Yasur and other attractions on Tanna.

Visa & Travel

Nationality/Region	Entry Status	Max Stay	Key Requirements
USA, UK, Australia, EU, New Zealand	Visa Free	Up to 30 days	Valid passport, return/onward ticket
Other countries	Visa Required	Varies	Apply for a tourist visa before departure
Transit (all nationalities)	Transit Allowed	Up to 24 hours	Confirmed onward ticket

Health: No mandatory vaccinations unless coming from a yellow fever-endemic country. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunizations.

Customs: Duty-free items include 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, and gifts up to VUV 200,000.

Safety Tips: Vanuatu is a safe destination for tourists. It is advisable to take usual safety precautions, particularly when hiking or exploring isolated areas.

Money Matters: The official currency is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). ATMs are available in Port Vila, and credit cards are accepted in many tourist areas.

Etiquette: Show respect for local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting villages. Always ask for permission before taking photographs, especially during ceremonies.