Vanuatu Travel & Holiday Packages

Vanuatu enjoys endless sunshine year-round thanks to its sub-tropical climate. Mild temperatures and clear blue skies are typical throughout the year and swimming is also pleasant with sea temperatures varying between 22-28°C.

• The Winter season, April to September, is a cooler, drier period with an average temperature of 26°C. It is generally a popular time to travel, especially for Australians escaping the colder winter season.
• The Summer season, November to March, can be hot, wet and humid with an average temperature of 28°C. These months are part of the tropical cyclone season however, most resorts are located in the southern region of Vanuatu which benefits from less extreme climate conditions and generally experiences less rain and humidity. December-January can be quite busy due to the extended Summer holidays in Australia & New Zealand.

• The currency in Vanuatu is Vatu. $1AUD equates to approximately 80 Vatu.
• Most resorts accept major credit cards. ATM’s and foreign exchange services are available in Port Vila and Luganville.
• Tipping is not required and goes against local tradition, as does bargaining. A simple smile or “thank you” is sufficient.
• The electricity plugs are similar to Australia & New Zealand, running on 230V three-pronged plugs
• Light-weight casual clothing during the day is recommended. During the cooler months a cardigan or jacket may be required during the evening. Pack a water-proof jacket if travelling in the wetter months.
• Vanuatu’s town water supply is safe to drink however, if intending to travel to the outer islands bottled water is recommended. Bottled water should ideally be purchased in Port Vila or Luganville as supplies in the outer islands are limited.
• There are over 120 distinct languages and many more dialects spoken in Vanuatu however the three ‘official’ languages are English, French & Bislama. Bislama is ‘pidgin English’ with a few French words.

Australian passport holders do not currently require a visa for a stay as a tourist of up to 30 days but must hold a passport with six months validity from date of entry to Vanuatu. A confirmed on-ward or returned ticket is also required as well as sufficient funds. If you are a non-Australian passport holder, please check your visa requirements with the appropriate Embassy or Consular office.

 

By Air 

Air Vanuatu is the national airline and operates domestic flights throughout the islands. The main routes connecting Port Vila with Santo & Tanna utilise comfortable ATR-72 aircraft. Beyond these routes, flights are operated by smaller aircraft with no assigned seating, and land on grass runways with no airport facilities.

By Boat

Banana boats are regularly used to travel from larger to smaller islands. For longer journeys, time permitting, a trip on one of the boats of cargo vessels offers a different perspective, viewing a range of landscapes and experiencing a different side of Vanuatu culture.

By Bus

In Port Vila, the buses are mini vans which seat approximately 10 people. There is an ample amount within the city and the license plates start with a “B”. Buses are used by locals, but considered to be very friendly, cheap and easy to use by tourists. Luganville has comparatively fewer buses but there are many taxis available which are reasonable in price.

By Taxi

Taxis are plentiful within Port Vila. The licence plates start with a “T” and fare is calculated per taxi so in some cases, with a small group it is cheaper to take a taxi rather than a bus.

Scenic beaches, wondrous dive sites and welcoming locals are just some of the many reasons Vanuatu is called “The Isle of Smiles.”

Adrenaline buffs will love to try land diving. This daring activity is often credited as the precursor to bungee jumping. Land diving involves climbing a 100-foot bamboo tower. Your feet will then be tied and secured with forest vines before you freefall into the surrounding lush rainforest. 

Another exciting activity you can do in Vanuatu is dive inside the wreck of the Coolidge. This luxury liner was converted into a trooper carrier during WWII. The ship sank in 1942 when it hit a friendly mine while carrying 5,000 troops. Since then, it has become a popular tourist attraction for scuba divers. Paddle through its ill-fated cabins and decks and marvel at the wildlife living among ruins. 

Your Vanuatu trip won’t be complete without trying the infamous Kava. This non-fermented beverage is a traditional Vanuatuan drink consumed during ceremonies and special occasions. Drop by any Kava bar and give this beast a try.
 

Get any of our Vanuatu holiday packages to explore the many wonders the country offers.

This tropical paradise doesn’t fall short of beautiful natural wonders. Have a glimpse of Vanuatu’s beauty with its numerous waterscapes, such as the Mele Cascades, Port Resolution and Luganville. What sets this island country apart from other tropical destinations is its different volcanic and geothermal attractions. You can visit the world’s most open active volcano, Mount Yasur, or join a guided tour up the couplet volcanoes, Mt. Benbow and Mt. Marum. 

Vanuatu comprises more than 80 islands, with each having something interesting to offer. The country’s capital, Port Villa, is the busiest city, with different activities to enjoy and many restaurants, bars and other establishments to visit. Travellers can try various water activities like snorkelling and kayaking at Pentecost Island. 
 

It’s best to know the country’s climate at specific months before booking our Vanuatu holiday deals.

This island destination enjoys a beautiful tropical climate with generally fair weather all year round. You can go to the country from April to October and expect comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. These months are the country’s winter season, making it a cooler and drier period.

The remaining months of the year can be hot, wet and humid, but you can still enjoy the trip if you visit southern Vanuatu, as it experiences less rain and extreme climate conditions. You should also consider the peak season of the country for your trip. For example, February and the earlier, wetter months are slower. During this time, you can get great deals without the big crowds. 
 

Make the most of our Vanuatu holiday deals and explore these known destinations in the country.

The white sands and turquoise waters of Champagne Beach make it the epitome of paradise. Its name comes from the fizz that appears at low tide when gas escapes the volcanic rocks. You might also chance upon cows roaming and wandering the shoreline freely. 

The National Museum of Vanuatu showcases a collection of artefacts, such as slit gongs, canoes, ceremonial headdresses, pottery and shell ornaments. You can also look at the photo exhibit in the museum about the unearthing of Roi Mata’s gravesite. Mata was a powerful Melanesian chief who had a peaceful rule over the islands of Efate.
 

Book our Vanuatu holiday packages as you relax in the country's most comfortable luxury hotels and boutique accommodations.

Enjoy peace and solitude as you book a room at the Hideaway Island Resort. This Melanesian-style resort is located on its own private island. It offers an unspoiled paradise as it is surrounded by clear turquoise waters, coral reefs and rich marine life. Guests can enrol at the on-site PADI training centre for scuba diving, snorkel among the tropical fish, or lay back and enjoy the sun.

This tropical country is also perfect for honeymooners. Couples can stay in the idyllic and romantic Havannah Vanuatu beachfront resort. Immerse in the beauty of the surrounding Flame trees and tropical gardens as you enjoy intimate candlelit dinners during your stay.
 

Vanuatu will ease travel restrictions starting on July 1, 2022. Until then, you can only enter the country’s borders if you’re a citizen, permanent resident or priority traveller. 

You must be fully vaccinated to enter the country’s borders, with the last shot taken at least 14 or 28 days before going to the country. Proof of a negative COVID-19 test must be taken at least 24 to 72 hours before flying. You’ll also undergo a mandatory three-day quarantine upon your arrival.
 

Vanuatu’s strategic location between Fiji and New Caledonia provides travellers with a quick travel time — just three hours away from Australia and New Zealand. It’s easy to get direct flights from different parts of the country, namely Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Noumea, Honiara and Nadi. 

Catch a flight with Air Vanuatu, the country’s national carrier. First-time travellers often arrive at Port Vila Airport as it is just a few minutes away from Port Vila and the Havannah Coast.
 

Welcome to Vanuatu! An archipelago nation of 83 islands dotted across a marine wonderland of natural beauty, enjoys a traditional life rather removed from the western world.

Relax on pristine beaches and take a dip in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean or be enticed by serene swimming holes amongst lush jungles. Visit friendly neighbouring villages and embrace the culture of their community life. Vanuatu is a natural paradise ready to be explored.

The island of Efate, home to the capital Port Vila, features varied landscapes of rugged coastlines, vast countryside, impressive waterfalls, stunning sandy bays and lagoons. Port Vila is set around a natural harbour and offers a range of exciting activities such as ziplining, hiking and snorkelling. Connect with the friendly locals by watching a cultural show, sampling fresh produce or purchasing handcrafted souvenirs at the local markets.

Tanna exudes traditional Melanesian culture (Kastom) and is known as the island of adventure. This charming island is teeming with a diverse range of spectacular sites around every corner. The iconic Mt Yasur is the world’s most accessible active volcano and is an impressive site to behold. A snorkelling adventure to the hidden grotto of the Blue Cave is a truly breathtaking experience and not to be missed.  Marvel at the giant Banyan Tree, take in the “Kastom” at local villages, and explore hot springs and secluded beaches.

Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest Island, is renowned for its world-class diving, spectacular blue swimming holes, fine white sandy beaches and lush jungles. Experience adventure, history, Melanesian culture and bare-foot-luxury on this extraordinary island. A diver’s paradise, explore various wreck sites including the legendary SS President Coolidge. Sip some bubbles on Champagne Beach or take a hike through dense jungle and cool off in the iridescent blue swim holes.

Want to extend your island bliss? Explore more options in our other Island Holiday Packages.