Discover Vanuatu

Competing with Disneyland for the title of “The happiest place on earth”, the island paradise is a spectacular holiday destination.

What’s not to love about a life of swaying palm trees, deserted beaches, hibiscus flowers and enriching culture!

Competing with Disneyland for the title of “The happiest place on earth”, the island paradise is a spectacular holiday destination.

Famous for its relaxed vibe and clear blue waters, the South Pacific archipelago boasts 83 islands  all of which offer a variety of things to see and do.

Located on the main island of Efate, Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila is rich with Polynesian culture, tradition and lifestyle. A French-influenced city, with a lively town centre  home to a bustling food and crafts market and Vanuatu’s most impressive dining scene  Port Vila is a major cruise liner port and a great base from which to explore Efate’s many natural splendours.

Stay at (or day trip to) Hideaway Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary and snorkel the private atoll’s colourful coral reef. Jump in a taxi to Efate’s top-rated tourist attraction, the Mele Cascades to marvel at impressive waterfalls and swim in refreshing natural pools. Take sanctuary and relax in the bluer than blue swimming hole, Blue Lagoon. Or cast a line out and go fishing off the breakwater at Eton Beach.

While Efate is Vanuatu’s main holidaying hub, the country’s scattered islands also offer an array of unique and enjoyable experiences.

Tanna is famous for its underwater caves, coral reefs, wild horses and active volcano, Mount Yasur. Ambrym also hosts an active volcano, surrounded by lava-sculpted terrain covered in thick jungle. The largest of the islands, Espiritu Santo boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, blue holes and the legendary SS President Coolidge shipwreck a great location for diving. Pentecost Island has received worldwide attention as the home of the land diving ritual, N’gol. While Malekula is also rich in custom, showcasing vibrant traditions of song and dance and a history of cannibalism.

Discover Vanuatu

Words by Alice Nash - Published 6 August 2012
Quick Facts 
Population Approx 209,000
Area 12,189 km2
Time Zone GMT +11
Languages Bislama, English & French
Currency Vanuatu Vatu (VT)
Electricity 230v 50Hz
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