Things to do in Vanuatu

25 things to do in Vanuatu

Listed in full below. The running order is set by votes and loads with the page.

• Watch the eruption of Mount Yasur on Tanna Island

  Stand on the rim of one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes and witness spectacular lava eruptions at night, feeling the ground rumble beneath you.

  Tanna Island

• Dive the SS President Coolidge wreck

  Explore the massive World War II shipwreck, now a premier diving site with accessible rooms, artifacts, and coral growth on its hull in clear waters.

  Espiritu Santo

• Attend a kava ceremony in a traditional village

  Participate in the ritual consumption of kava, a mildly sedative drink, in a nakamal or village gathering, experiencing Vanuatu's communal traditions.

  Port Vila

• Try laplap, Vanuatu's national dish

  Savor this savory pudding made from grated yam, taro, or manioc, cooked with coconut milk and meat in banana leaves over hot stones.

  Port Vila

• Visit the Port Vila Market

  Browse stalls overflowing with fresh produce, tropical fruits, handicrafts, and local goods at this vibrant open-air market in the capital.

  Port Vila

• Snorkel at the Blue Lagoon on Efate Island

  Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation in this natural freshwater lagoon, perfect for cooling off.

  Efate Island

• Explore the Millennium Cave

  Trek through dense jungle, wade through underground rivers, and navigate waterfalls in this challenging guided cave adventure on Espiritu Santo.

  Espiritu Santo

• Visit the Vanuatu Cultural Centre

  Learn about Vanuatu's diverse cultures through traditional artifacts, models of nakamals, and exhibitions on customs, music, and dance.

  Port Vila

• Relax on Champagne Beach

  Sink your toes into powdery white sand and swim in calm, clear waters, often with a fizzy sensation from natural springs under the sea.

  Espiritu Santo

• Take a day trip to Mele Cascades

  Hike through tropical forest to reach stunning waterfalls where you can swim in cool, refreshing pools amid lush scenery.

  Efate Island

• Experience the Nagol (Land Diving) ceremony on Pentecost Island

  Witness the ancient ritual where men leap from tall wooden towers with only vines attached to their ankles, a precursor to bungee jumping.

  Pentecost Island

• Visit the Port Vila Waterfront

  Stroll along the scenic harbor, enjoy restaurants, shops, and views of the bay with cruise ships and yachts in a relaxed setting.

  Port Vila

• Dine on fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant in Port Vila

  Feast on grilled fish, lobster, or crab caught daily, served with local sides like coconut cream while overlooking the ocean.

  Port Vila

• Dive at Million Dollar Point

  Explore underwater military equipment dumped by U.S. forces after WWII, creating an artificial reef and eerie dive site with vehicles and machinery.

  Espiritu Santo

• Visit a traditional village on Efate Island

  Engage with locals, see traditional dances, and learn about customs and crafts like weaving in an authentic village setting.

  Efate Island

• Hike to the summit of Mount Garet on Gaua Island

  Trek through lush rainforest to the crater rim of this active volcano, offering panoramic views of Lake Letas and surrounding islands.

  Gaua Island

• Attend the Vanuatu Arts Festival

  Celebrate Vanuatu's cultural diversity with traditional music, dance, art, and ceremonies held biennially in Port Vila.

  Port Vila

• Explore Eton Beach and Blue Hole

  Relax on a pristine beach and swim in a deep blue hole surrounded by coral and tropical fish, accessible by a short walk.

  Efate Island

• Enjoy Port Vila's nightlife at bars and clubs

  Experience live music, cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere at waterfront bars and nightclubs in the capital after dark.

  Port Vila

• Visit the John Frum cargo cult village on Tanna Island

  Learn about the unique cargo cult that worships an American WWII figure, with rituals, monuments, and cultural insights.

  Tanna Island

• Take a boat tour to Hideaway Island

  Snorkel or dive in the marine sanctuary surrounding this small island, known for its underwater post office and vibrant corals.

  Efate Island

• Purchase traditional tusk shell crafts

  Buy unique jewelry and crafts made from tusk shells, a traditional currency and adornment in Vanuatu, from local markets or artisans.

  Port Vila

• Visit the Vanuatu Parliament House

  See the modern building that houses Vanuatu's government, reflecting the nation's post-independence architecture and political history.

  Port Vila

• Snorkel at the Coral Gardens

  Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including turtles, tropical fish, and rays in clear waters.

  Espiritu Santo

• Attend a Sunday church service

  Experience the strong Christian traditions with harmonious singing and community gathering in local churches across villages.

  Efate Island