Oceania

Vanuatu

Live volcanoes, blue holes and some of the Pacific's liveliest traditions.

Vanuatu is an archipelago of more than 80 islands, famous for Mount Yasur on Tanna, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes. Efate has Port Vila, waterfalls and snorkelling, while Espiritu Santo has Champagne Beach, freshwater blue holes and the wreck of the SS President Coolidge. On Pentecost, the land-diving ceremony, the forerunner of bungee jumping, takes place in April and May.

Island life is relaxed and friendly, with kastom traditions, sand drawings and kava bars at dusk. Food is simple and fresh, with a French touch in Port Vila. Domestic flights and boats link the islands. May to October is dry, sunny and the best time to go; November to April is hot, humid and cyclone season.

Best time to visit Vanuatu

June, July, August, September.

Places to visit in Vanuatu

• Mount Yasur: One of the world's most accessible active volcanoes, on Tanna Island, where visitors watch eruptions from the crater rim.
• Port Vila: Vanuatu's harbour capital on Efate, with a produce market, waterfalls, blue holes and diving on the reefs.

Essentials

• Currency: Vanuatu Vatu (VUV)
• Language: Bislama, English and French
• Plugs: Type I, 230 V
• Driving: Right side
• Time zone: UTC+11
• Tipping: Not expected
• Getting around: Minibuses in Port Vila; domestic flights to outer islands
• Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking

Plan a trip to Vanuatu