Vanuatu is an archipelago of 83 islands with a unique blend of intact tribal communities, resorts, beaches and geography ranging from accessible volcanoes to pristine underwater environments, offering unique and memorable experiences. Every village still has its own values, dialect and traditions, giving this island nation a cultural diversity not see elsewhere.
The islands are an adventure enthusiast's paradise. The geologically active archipelago is a natural playground of colourful reefs, bubbling volcanoes and lush jungle. Visitors can drive up to the crater of Yasur, cited as the most accessible active volcano in the world, sea kayak round the islands' shorelines, explore underwater WWII relics, or hike and bike through coconut plantations and tropical rainforest.
Those less inclined to exert themselves can relax on the many beautiful beaches, sample the multicultural cuisine in the capital, Port-Vila, or charter a boat from one island to the next.
Port Vila – The capital Port Vila is located on the island of Efate and is situated around a magnificent natural harbour offering stunning views of Iririki, Ifira islands, and a look out all the way to Malapoa Point. Vila is clean and uncluttered, the waterfront area is unpolluted, visitors are stunned to look down from the seawall and see live corals and tropical fish. It's also fast becoming known as the gourmet capital of the South Pacific. The potpourri of expatriate cultures is reflected in food styles served in over forty restaurants and cafes - French, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Melanesian and Mediterranean. You can buy an Aussie meat pie or American chilli dog, sip cappuccino in one of the many outdoor cafes or purchase pates and salads from a patisserie in a supermarket to fill your picnic hamper. Night life in Vila has blossomed steadily, the atmosphere fun, and caters for all ages offered by the resort hotels, nightclubs and pubs, several casinos and more. You can stroll along the waterfront, or darkened back streets late at night and feel safe. Passing locals are likely to wish you a soft "Good night", or perhaps strike up a friendly conversation.
Espirtu Santo - Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands (4,010 km2) and with some of the most beautiful white sand beaches, amazing blue holes, caves, world renowned diving and snorkelling; it is a paradise waiting to be uncovered. Its main town is Luganville, where there is a local market for fresh produce and local crafts and a number of bars and restaurants. While Santo is a Mecca for dive enthusiasts, it also offers breathtaking sightseeing. Days can be spent lazing on vacant white sand beaches, snorkelling and kayaking in the crystal clear blue water, trekking through untouched rainforest or discovering an ancient and relatively unchanged culture.
During World War II 100,000 allied troops and support staff were stationed in Santo. Remnants of this time including the SS President Coolidge, a 22,000 Tonne luxury liner turned troopship which sunk just off shore, have become world renowned dive sites. Divers and snorkelers can explore ship wrecks and sites like Million Dollar Point where thousands of tonnes of war surplus were dumped in the ocean by the US, as well as amazing coral reefs and blue holes joined by underground caverns.
Tanna - There is a lot to see and do in Tanna so, if you want to swim in underwater caves, snorkel on some of the best coral in the South Pacific, visit untouched waterfalls, see the islands wild horses and experience an ancient culture that remains largely unchanged to this day; then ensure that you allow time to explore.
Tanna is known as the home to Mount Yasur volcano, which is considered one of the world’s most accessible volcanoes. Mt Yasur is just a one hour drive from Tanna’s White Grass Airport followed by a 10 minute walk to the crater rim. It’s best viewed at dusk so at least one night stay in Tanna is recommended. Anthropologically, Tanna is fascinating with the local culture largely unaffected by the western way of life. There are also cult tribes to learn about including the Prince Philip cult and the John Frum’s cargo cult. If you visit on a Friday you will be privy to the weekly ceremony when John Frum members conduct rituals including raising flags and marching in unison, holding the belief that mimicking these American acts will lead to the delivery of magical cargo such as radios, jeeps, fridges and other manufactured items owned by American visitors during WWII.