Vanuatu travel guide
About Vanuatu
If you can confidently point to Vanuatu on a map then you’re a better geographer than most. Drifting like flotsam in the Pacific Ocean, this little-known nation has much to offer intrepid travellers and is all the more appealing for its obscurity.
Made up of approximately 83 islands, the geologically active archipelago is a natural playground of colourful coral reefs, bubbling volcanoes and lush rainforest. Visitors can drive up to the crater of Yasur, cited as the most accessible active volcano in the world, sea kayak round the islands' sandy shores, explore underwater WWII relics, or hike and bike through coconut plantations and steamy jungles.
Those less disposed to physical exertion can always while away lazy days on Vanuatu’s bountiful beaches, which really are the picture of tropical island idyll. Or why not charter a boat and hop from one island to the next? Wherever you go expect a good feast: the food here is absolutely exquisite, a testament not only to talented local chefs, but also the profusion of fresh ingredients that grow on this fertile archipelago.
Warm and welcoming, with a rich and sometimes mysterious traditional culture, the ni-Vanuatu people greet visitors as friends and are keen to share stories about their country, which was declared the happiest nation on the planet in 2006. The Happy Planet Index hasn’t bestowed this title on Vanuatu since, but it’s still pretty jovial by all accounts.
Tourism in Vanuatu is largely centred on the islands of Tanna, Espiritu Santo and Efaté, with most international visitors arriving on the latter. From here it is easy to travel by boat or plane to the rest of the country, which caters for travellers of all stripes. Sure, it’s skewered to the well heeled, but amongst the high-end beach resorts are a smattering of wallet friendly options. Proof that paradise needn’t break the bank.
Key facts
12,190 sq km (4,707 sq miles).
270,470 (UN estimate 2016).
22.3 per sq km.
Port-Vila.
Republic.
President Nikenike Vurobaravu since 2022.
Prime Minister Charlot Salwai since 2023.
Travel Advice
Earthquake in Port Vila, Vanuatu
There has been an earthquake in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The British High Commission is contacting authorities and urgently seeking further information following the earthquake in Vanuatu.
Remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local authorities. Seek higher ground. Be aware of the possibility of aftershocks.
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Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
- see general advice for women travellers
- read our guide on disability and travel abroad
- see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
- read about safety for solo and independent travel
- see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Vanuatu’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Vanuatu set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Vanuatu, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
Check with the Vanuatu Department of Immigration and Passport Services for details of whether you need a visa in advance of travel.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Vanuatu guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Vanuatu. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Vanuatu
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Vanuatu, attacks cannot be ruled out.
Crime
Protecting yourself and your belongings
The risk of crime is generally low but there have been:
- burglaries accompanied by violence
- some instances of street crime and attacks on foreign nationals, including on tourists at nightclubs and bars in Port Vila
Take sensible precautions as you would in the UK.
Laws and cultural differences
You should respect local customs, which are strictly observed, and religious sensitivities.
Dress code
Do not wear beachwear away from beaches and hotels.
Alcohol laws and bans
It is illegal for supermarkets to sell alcohol from midday on Saturday to 7am on Monday. However, clubs, bars and hotels may serve alcohol during these times.
Kava drinking ceremonies
Kava is a traditional drink in Vanuatu used in kava ceremonies, at kava bars (‘nakamals’) and at some hotels. Some nakamals, particularly outside of Port Vila, do not welcome women. Be wary of the effects of kava and consume it responsibly. Kava is banned from entry to the UK due to concerns about its health impacts.
Illegal drugs and prison sentences
Avoid all recreational drugs. Possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and a large fine.
Using cameras
Most people in Vanuatu will allow you to take their photograph, but you should always get permission first.
Mobile phone coverage
Ask your service provider if your mobile will work in Vanuatu. A 4G network is available but coverage varies across the country. You can also buy SIM cards from local phone companies Vodafone or Digicel, including at Port Vila airport.
Visiting fees
Land ownership in Vanuatu is an important and often sensitive issue. If you travel off the beaten track, you may be trespassing unless you pay a ‘visiting fee’ to the landowner. At most beaches you will also be asked to pay an entry fee.
LGBT+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are legal in Vanuatu. However, showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention and is likely to offend some people.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Swimming safety
Take care when swimming, diving or snorkelling in the sea as currents can be extremely strong. Coral reefs can easily cause cuts and scrapes. There are reports of water quality issues in some of the lagoons, and there are sharks in Vanuatu waters. Be cautious and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.
See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.
Water sports and scuba diving activities
Many visitors to Vanuatu take part in water sports, including scuba diving and snorkelling without incident. However, water sports activities have on occasion led to injuries and deaths because of a lack of basic safety measures. To reduce risks:
- use licensed water sports centres or operators
- get any paperwork signed in advance
- make sure you get a safety briefing before starting
Diving schools and rescue service standards are not always as high as in the UK. Check the dive operator’s credentials and make sure your insurance covers you.
To reduce risks:
- ask your dive operator to explain what cover they offer before signing up
- check safety equipment is available on the boat
- check the operator’s plans for emergencies, including their ability to evacuate divers to the nearest hyperbaric chamber
Vanuatu has 2 hyperbaric recompression chambers, both in Port Vila.
See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents watersports safety abroad guide.
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Vanuatu, see information on driving abroad.
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Vanuatu. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.
Driving conditions
Many roads in Vanuatu are not properly surfaced. A lack of street lighting and the presence of pedestrians and animals makes roads particularly dangerous at night. Take extra care when driving at night, in heavy rain or after a prolonged dry period.
Driving standards are below those in the UK and many vehicles, including public transport, are in a poor state of repair and may not be insured.
Air travel
Air Vanuatu is currently not operating international or domestic flights. Check for messages from your travel agent in case of any changes or cancellations to your travel booking, including for code share tickets. Other airlines continue to operate flights to and from Vanuatu.
Travel to outer islands is often on small local aircraft. Many domestic airports have basic or no facilities. Schedules may be changed or suspended at short notice due to weather conditions or ash clouds from volcanic activity.
Sea travel
Boat services between the islands are infrequent and can be unreliable. Boats travelling between the islands should have current sea-worthiness certificates, but many do not. Look into their safety before taking these services.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Vanuatu is in an active seismic region known as the ‘Ring of Fire’. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis are possible. Tropical cyclones are also a risk.
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Tropical cyclones
The tropical cyclone season in Vanuatu normally runs from November to May, but cyclones can happen throughout the year. During the cyclone season there is a greater risk of strong winds, heavy rains, flooding, landslides and road closures.
Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organization weather reports for Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department.
Earthquakes and tsunamis
Vanuatu is in an earthquake zone and is prone to significant year-round seismic and volcanic activity, with an associated risk of tsunamis. There are over 2,000 seismic events reported each year. Most events are minor, but earthquakes over 5.0 magnitude happen regularly. Make sure you understand local safety procedures for earthquakes and tsunamis.
Check Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department updates on seismic activity.
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami.
Volcanoes
In Vanuatu there are active volcanoes on the islands of:
- Ambae
- Ambrym
- Epi
- Gaua
- Lopevi
- Tanna
- Vanua Lava
Volcano alert levels can change unexpectedly, and you may not be able to access an island if a volcano is active.
Before you travel to an area with volcanoes:
- contact the Vanuatu Tourism Office for the latest advice
- make sure your travel and medical insurance covers you
- monitor local news and follow the advice of the local authorities
For current volcano alert levels, see the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department.
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Call 115 and ask for an ambulance.
For a fee, Promedical provide a 24-hour ambulance service in Port Vila and Luganville.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Vanuatu
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Vanuatu, including:
- malaria
- dengue
- chikungunya
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Vanuatu
Medical facilities in Vanuatu are basic and limited in range and availability. There are medical clinics in Port Vila, some with Australian-trained GPs, which offer primary care. More serious cases will require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, medical evacuation and repatriation.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
Emergency services in Vanuatu
Ambulance: 115
Fire: 113
Police: 111 or 22222
Contact your travel provider and insurer
Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
Refunds and changes to travel
For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
- where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
- how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim
Support from FCDO
FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
- finding English-speaking lawyers in Vanuatu
- being arrested or imprisoned in Vanuatu
- getting help if you’re a victim of crime
- what to do if you’re in hospital
- if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack
Contacting FCDO
Help abroad
See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
Help in the UK
You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
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