Welcome to Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a land of contrasts, where world-class resorts in Port Vila give way to traditional villages where life is just as it was decades, maybe centuries, ago. It’s a choose-your-own adventure kind of Pacific getaway, full of secret beaches, incredible diving, remote islands, cultural traditions and customs – all with a laid-back sense of fun and hospitality.

Hike the world’s most accessible active volcano, Mount Yasur. Shop the handicraft markets and strike up a conversation at the fresh fish and produce stalls. Experience a kava ceremony. And jump into the otherworldly Blue Holes of Espiritu Santo, large karst springs up to 98 feet deep.

Unique Facts

• You can explore the shipwreck of the 650-foot USS President Coolidge, which was formerly a luxury ocean liner and converted to a troop ship during World War II. There’s everything from Jeeps to chandeliers within this highly acclaimed wreck.
• Sea cows (dugongs) live in the waters surrounding Vanuatu. In other areas of the world, they’re considered to be endangered.
• There are more than 100 languages spoken in Vanuatu.
• Cannibalism was practiced in Vanuatu until the late 1960s.
• The Tanna Island tribe worships Prince Philip, harkening back to a visit to the country by the Queen and Duke in 1974.

Language

Vanuatu’s official language is French, English and Bislama.

When To Go

The best time to go to Vanuatu is April to October, although the weather is nice all year round.

Airports

Bauerfield International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of under 30 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting Vanuatu: Hepatitis A, Malaria and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need a Hepatitis B vaccine.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type I. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Vanuatu Vatu

Getting Around

Be aware that roads are generally narrow and not well maintained. The only consistently paved roads are found in Port Vila and Luganville.

There is no public transportation in Vanuatu. There are privately owned minibuses that can provide transport through the islands.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

US Embassy Port Moresby
PO Box 1492
Port Moresby
Papua New Guinea

Local Visitor Info

Vanuatu Tourism Office
rue Emile Mercet Street
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Tel: +678 22813

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Police: 111
Ambulance: 112
Fire: 113

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Vanuatu. Theft, burglary and assault occasionally occurs. Take standard safety precautions and do not leave belongings unattended.