Vanuatu Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Vanuatu? Main activities and attractions

Port Vila’s National Museum of Vanuatu is a rich starting point to understand the archipelago’s diverse heritage, revealing ancient rituals, traditional music instruments, and colonial history. The cultural village of Ekasup, where local Ni-Vanuatu demonstrate ancestral crafts, is another must-see. Venture to Espiritu Santo’s World War II relics, including the SS President Coolidge wreck, which can be explored by diving. The Chief Roi Mata’s Domain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tells the story of a legendary Melanesian chief, through sacred sites scattered across Efate and nearby islands. These attractions make exploring Vanuatu more than just a beach holiday—it’s a cultural immersion.

Nature lovers can discover Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, where you can witness daily eruptions from its crater rim. The Blue Holes on Espiritu Santo offer crystalline freshwater cenotes for swimming and kayaking. Snorkeling in the clear waters of Hideaway Island’s marine sanctuary brings encounters with vibrant coral reefs. Gastronomy features local ingredients like taro, coconut, and freshly grilled seafood; don’t miss the traditional lap lap dish cooked in earth ovens. Each island offers distinct flavors, customs and natural beauty, turning every day into a unique exploration.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Vanuatu

Beyond its well-known beaches and volcanoes, Vanuatu holds a range of rare and authentic experiences that few travelers explore. If you’re after something unique, these immersive activities reveal the country’s hidden dimensions.

On Pentecost Island, witness the adrenaline-fueled tradition of land diving (“Naghol”), where men leap from bamboo towers with only vines tied to their ankles—a ritual said to inspire bungee jumping. It’s performed between April and June and is rooted in fertility rites and ancestral tradition.

In Malekula, hike through remote jungle paths to encounter the Small Nambas and Big Nambas tribal communities, known for preserving strong cultural rituals. Their elaborate dances and oral storytelling connect you to a way of life that remains unchanged over centuries.

Take a dugout canoe tour through the Riri River to the Matevulu Blue Hole on Espiritu Santo. Far from tourist crowds, this rainforest-fringed spring glows with electric blue water, ideal for swimming in serenity.

Stay in a kastom village on Tanna Island, where there is no electricity and the community lives according to traditional customs. This offers a rare view into how the Ni-Vanuatu blend spirituality with sustainable living through subsistence farming and communal land use.

These distinctive encounters let you experience the unfiltered soul of Vanuatu, far from conventional itineraries. They not only enrich your understanding but also support local communities directly.

When to visit Vanuatu? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Vanuatu

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, UK and US citizens do not require a visa for visits under 90 days, provided they hold a valid passport with at least six months validity. A return or onward ticket is also required. Extension applications can be made to the local immigration office in Port Vila.

🚗 Driving rules

In Vanuatu, people drive on the right-hand side. An international driving license is required and should be carried at all times. Roads can be unpaved and challenging outside urban areas, especially after heavy rains, so 4WD vehicles are recommended on remote islands.

🔌 Electricity

Electricity operates at 220–240V with outlets of type I (Australian type). An adaptor may be necessary depending on your home country. The frequency is 50 Hz. Power cuts, though rare, may occur during storms.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Coverage is fair in urban areas and weaker in rural zones. The main operators are Digicel and Vodafone. Buying a local SIM is simple and affordable, with data packages starting from USD 5. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in Port Vila.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Vanuatu is a safe destination with low crime rates, but petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots—remain cautious with valuables. Avoid unknown areas in Port Vila at night, and respect natural warnings near volcanoes or after cyclones. Emergency numbers include 112 for general help and 113 for ambulance services.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Importing drugs, pornography, and weapons is strictly prohibited. Certain marine species are protected and cannot be removed from the ocean. Respect taboos and customs in traditional villages, especially regarding sacred sites and ceremonial objects.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Dress modestly when outside of beaches, and always ask permission before taking photos of people or inside villages. Public displays of affection are discouraged. Islanders place high value on politeness, respect for elders, and quiet demeanor in sacred areas.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Christianity is the main religion, with strong Presbyterian and Anglican practices. Visitors should remain respectful in churches and avoid loud talking or casual wear during services. Local festivals often merge religion with tradition—check dates before visiting to coordinate respectfully.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Vanuatu, Vanuatu National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025