Travel Tips for Vanuatu

Translating to ‘Land Eternal’, Vanuatu is renowned for its natural beauty, from pristine beaches and vibrant coral to dense rainforests and towering volcanoes. Although it is so close to home, life on the islands is very different from daily life in Australia.

When holidaying in Vanuatu it’s worthwhile to research travel tips and to familiarise yourself with basic information on Vanuatu’s geography, language, climate, and culture as well as currency, medical services, and visa requirements. Having this knowledge makes your Vanuatu holiday even more enjoyable and gives you to opportunity to discover experiences that aren’t on every tourist’s to-do list. But don’t worry about all the research! We’re seasoned travellers to the islands, and we’re sharing our travel tips for Vanuatu right here.

Essential Information for Vanuatu

Essential Information for Vanuatu

  • The capital city is Port Vila, on the island of Efate
  • Vatu (VAT) is the official currency but Australian Dollars are widely accepted
  • The international airport is Bauerfield
  • Electricity plugs are the same as Australia/New Zealand’s 3-pin angled plug (230V/50hz)
  • Vanuatu seasons are the same as Australia
  • VUT Vanuatu Time is one hour ahead of AEST Australian Eastern Standard Time
  • The local people speak Bislama as well as English and French
  • Tipping and bartering are not a part of the Vanuatu culture and traditions
  • Tap water is considered safe to drink
  • Air Vanuatu is the country’s international and domestic airline
  • No VISA is required
  • Passport must be valid for six months beyond your intended stay
  • Business hours are generally 7:30am until 4:30/5:00pm. Many shops close between 11:30am and 1:30pm for siesta.
  • Carry local currency for markets and taxis
  • Sharks are common in the waters around Malekula and Espiritu Santo. It is advised you seek local advice before swimming there

Transport in Vanuatu

Transport in Vanuatu

  • Travel between islands is by air or boat
  • There are taxis, buses, and rental cars available on the main islands
  • You can hire a car with an Australian Drivers license
  • Vehicles drive on the right side of the road
  • There are no roads on most of the outer islands; the only mode of transport is by foot or boat
  • Outer islands can be accessed by air or somethings by boat. The outer islands ‘airports’ are basic with grass runways and most not having electricity or chairs.

Vanuatu Cultural Customs

Vanuatu Cultural Customs

  • ‘Alo’ is hello is Bislama
  • Women cover their shoulders and knees when not at the beach (especially in the city and local villages). Vanuatu is heavily influenced by religion and the Christian missionaries who arrived on the islands hundreds of years ago.
  • Dress is casual and comfortable but conservative. Save the beachwear and short shorts for the beach and resort, and remember Vanuatu has a tropical climate so pack light
  • Get involved with the locals. This holiday is perfect for travellers looking for meaningful interactions. Go on a bushwalk with a local guide, or drink kava with the locals.
  • Embrace island time. If you’ve booked an experience, expect the guide to turn up at least 15 minutes late. Go with the flow.
  • Respect the land. Vanuatu locals respect the land and ocean, so littering is not allowed.
  • If you’re not sure about cultural customs, the friendly reception staff at your resort will answer any questions

Getting to Vanuatu

For more information on travelling to Vanuatu, head to our FAQs. Ready to book your perfectly packaged holiday to Vanuatu? Contact a friendly My Vanuatu Expert today! 

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