Vanuatu is an idyllic tropical archipelago featuring jungles, beaches and tropical terrain expanding over 12, 000 km2. With a tropical and balmy climate, the weather is perfect for any water-related activities. Boasting over 80 islands, there is no shortage of places to explore and things to do when visiting. Here is our list of things you need to check out when you’re in Vanuatu!
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When In Port Vila…
Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu, located on the island of Efate. If you aren’t drawn to touristy destinations, starting your visit here can acclimatise you to the island-style of life. Port Vila features a great assortment of local markets, which are a must-visit. Featuring locally-made handicrafts -perfect for souvenirs, alongside local produce – there is something for everyone! Make sure to bring cash along, so you don’t miss out.
Experience the French heritage Vanuatu holds by visiting local restaurant L’Houstalet. Having operated for over 40 years, they have perfected islandic French cuisine. They offer meals including garlic snails and stuffed flying fox! Another great place to check out is Mele Cascades, the most Instagram-worthy swimming spot. With an impressive 35m tall waterfall and crystal clear swimming holes, it is paradise!
Adrenaline And Adventure
Sometimes, we all just want to have fun! Vanuatu boasts the perfect landscape and Vanuatu holidays are famous for adventurous activities. Something you won’t forget is visiting Mt Yasur! Just a 45-minute flight south of the island Tanna, take a tour of the world’s most accessible live volcano. Despite continually erupting for over eight centuries, you can get up close and personal to the crater, while lava rocks are launched into the air around you.
For something a little tamer, dive and explore the largest accessible shipwreck on the planet! The troop-carrying ‘SS President Coolidge’ sank during World War II and now lies off the coast of Santo. During your dive, explore different compartments of the vessel. Another heart-pumping experience is ziplining in Port Vila. Enjoy the buzz of flying across an 80-metre canyon, while taking on the challenge of six different ziplines and two suspension bridges.
Weird And Wonderful
Come back from your holiday with some whacky stories to tell and photos to share! One of the most unique things to see in Vanuatu is the one of a kind, fully functional underwater post office! Scuba dive off the coast of Mele and post some post cards home – just don’t forget to purchase your waterproof postcards and stamps!
For tourists with a strong stomach, you can visit a cannibal tribe on Rano Island. Up until the 1960’s, these tribes actually ate people! While this tradition has ceased, the tribe now shares their traditions and old cannibal ‘kitchens,’ where there are still skulls and bones scattering the area. This is truly a unique experience to take back home!
Naturally Wonderful
This section could go on for pages and pages… Vanuatu islands have no shortage of natural landscapes to explore. Blue Lagoon is a jaw droppingly stunning swimming hole. With tours that allow you to hand-feed sharks and turtles, right amid the evergreen jungle and turquoise water. Pack your swimmers and enjoy the cool and refreshing waters of the lagoon!
Visit Millennium Cave for the tour of a lifetime. Ancestors of the current community in Vanuatu used the cave as a source of food. While the tour is physically demanding, experience trekking through tropical rainforests. Participate in cultural traditions, where a symbolic clay etching is applied to your face for safe travels, before passing through the river and entering the cave. The cave itself features a stunning swimming hole and is home to flocks of tiny bats and swallows!
For History And Culture Lovers
If you want to experience the culture of Vanuatu, delve into the history of the island by checking out The Secret Garden. Located in the village of Mele, guides explain the tribal history and give insight to the culture of Vanuatu. In these tours, wander through the well-groomed gardens that feature native flora and fauna. You can even catch a rare albino flying fox!
Take a tour of the Ekasup Cultural Village for another cultural experience. Be greeted by the chief and his warriors – complete with their clubs, spears and bows and arrows. Hear about the history and culture of Vanuatu, directly from the people who have resided there for generations. Wander around the different ‘compounds’ of the village, as they teach you about traditional farming, architecture, traditions and more.
No matter what you sort of places you like to explore, Vanuatu has something for everybody. From exciting adventures that will have any adrenaline junkie wanting more, to cultural and historically-rich tours, Vanuatu holidays are for everyone and so choose a Vanuatu holiday package that best suits your travel style and needs. The stunning islandic scenery also leaves you many places to explore on your own account. Don’t forget to embrace the ‘island time’ and relax!