What are some hidden gems to explore in Vanuatu?

For hidden gems, consider exploring the less-visited islands like Gaua, with its stunning volcanic crater lake, or the remote islands of the Torres group, offering pristine beaches and traditional village life. The Champagne Beach on Espiritu Santo is also relatively secluded and worth a visit.

Which airport should you arrive at in Vanuatu?

Most international flights arrive at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Efate Island, near Port Vila. This is the main gateway to the archipelago.

What is generally accepted for payment in Vanuatu, cash or card?

While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in Port Vila, cash (Vatu) is still king, especially outside of the main tourist areas. It's best to carry sufficient Vatu for smaller purchases and in more rural locations.

How would you describe the safety of road conditions and driving habits in Vanuatu?

Road conditions in Vanuatu can vary greatly. Main roads on the larger islands are generally okay, but many smaller roads are unsealed and can be challenging, especially after rain. Driving habits are often more relaxed than in many other countries, so caution is advised. Renting a 4x4 is recommended for exploring beyond the main towns.

What steps should you take if your passport goes missing in Vanuatu?

Report the loss to the local police immediately and then contact your nearest embassy or consulate. They will guide you through the process of obtaining emergency travel documents.

Where in Vanuatu should you spend a week to experience the best of the islands?

A week in Vanuatu could ideally include a few days in Port Vila on Efate for its amenities and then exploring another island like Santo for its diverse landscapes, including the Millennium Cave and the breathtaking underwater world of Million Dollar Point.

Where in Vanuatu can you have the best weekend experience?

For a fantastic weekend, Port Vila offers a good balance of relaxation and activities. You could enjoy the beaches, explore the markets, and dine at the various restaurants. Alternatively, a trip to a nearby island for some snorkeling or diving would also be memorable.

What festivals in Vanuatu are highly recommended for visitors?

The annual Independence Day celebrations (30 July) are a significant event, showcasing local culture and traditions. Many islands also hold unique cultural events throughout the year, often linked to local harvests or religious observances. Checking local event listings closer to your travel dates is always advisable.

Does Vanuatu have Uber or comparable ride-hailing services?

No, Vanuatu does not have Uber or similar ride-hailing apps widely available. Taxis and local buses are the common forms of transport.

What’s the top spot in Vanuatu for favourable weather conditions?

Vanuatu's weather is generally tropical, so it's hard to pinpoint one spot for consistently favourable conditions. However, the southern islands tend to experience slightly less rainfall than the northern islands. Checking weather forecasts before and during your trip is recommended.

Vanuatu unusual places to stay

10 17 reviews

Shared Dormitory - Yasur Backpackers

cabin

This family-run guesthouse is situated at the foot of Mount Yasur, near an ancient lava tube in the Tanna district of Vanuatu.
The B&B offers both dormitory-style rooms and a unique treehouse with a balcony overlooking the active volcano, accommodating up to six guests and providing opportunities to experience local culture through cooking, hunting, and playing with the family.

No reviews

Hideaway Paradise Family Beach Bungalow 3

cabin

This accommodation, a private, hand-built beach bungalow, is located near Port Orly in Sanma Province, Vanuatu, offering direct access to a private beach and proximity to excellent snorkeling spots.
The bungalow accommodates up to four guests with two bedrooms and one bathroom, featuring solar-powered lighting, cellphone reception, and device charging facilities at the on-site restaurant, which also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

8.5 11 reviews

Charming Room In Front Of Volcano

cabin

This charming bed and breakfast is situated just 2 kilometres from the entrance of Mount Yasur, offering stunning views of the active volcano. The property has received excellent ratings for its location and a very good rating overall.
This cosy treehouse accommodation can sleep up to two guests and features a kitchen, parking and WiFi. Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, tours to nearby attractions and airport transfers.

9.6 16 reviews

Jungle Oasis Bungalow

cabin

Jungle Oasis Bungalow, near Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, Vanuatu, offers a self-catering unit a two-minute walk from the volcano's entrance.
This one-bedroom bungalow sleeps two, includes a kitchen, internet, parking, and mosquito nets, and is part of a complex with a volleyball court and opportunities for cultural experiences such as laplap making.

No reviews

Fireworks Tree House

cabin

This secluded romantic lodge in Lenakel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, ideal for outdoor exploration.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit accommodates two guests and features a kitchen and internet, providing a private and relaxing experience.

9.8 133 reviews

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideway Tree House 1

cabin

This treehouse cabin in Lenakel, Tanna Island, offers breathtaking views of the active Yasur Volcano, just a short distance from the iconic landmark. The cabin has received excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The seven-bedroom cabin comfortably accommodates six guests and features a shared dining room for communal meals. It includes mosquito nets, hot water on request, limited electricity, and good mobile network reception, ensuring a comfortable and connected stay.

9.8 8 reviews

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideaway Treehouse 2

cabin

This charming cabin is located just a short distance from Lenakel, offering stunning views of the active volcano and the surrounding jungle. The cabin provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
The three-bedroom cabin can comfortably accommodate up to six guests, and features a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing, all within easy reach of the cabin.

No reviews

1 Bedroom Camping Style Accommodation Hut

cabin

This secluded lodge offers a rustic, camping-style experience just 500 metres from Pango village, providing complete privacy with no immediate neighbours. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom accommodation for two features an outdoor kitchen, solar lighting and fan, and basic but functional bathroom facilities, ideal for eco-conscious travellers seeking a unique stay near Port-Vila.

9.6 9 reviews

3-bedroom Oceanview Bungalow With Breakfast & Wifi

bungalow

This Port Vila hillside bungalow offers breathtaking ocean views, conveniently located a short distance (exact kilometres unspecified) from Port Vila's main attractions.
The two-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling sleeps six guests and features a kitchenette, spacious veranda, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, off-road parking, and a private bathroom downstairs with an upstairs toilet.

9.6 163 reviews

Bamboo 2

bungalow

The Bamboo Bungalows are located on the beachfront of Lonnoc Bay in Hog Harbour, a short walk from the world-famous Champagne Beach and a few minutes from the local restaurant. This property has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The bungalow features one bedroom and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating up to four guests. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a private verandah with stunning views, a comfortable island-style bathroom, mosquito nets, breakfast, and access to activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

No reviews

Hideaway Paradise Beach Bungalow 4

cabin

These hand-built family bungalows are situated directly on the beachfront near Port Orly on Espiritu Santo, within Sanma Province, Vanuatu.
Each bungalow accommodates up to three guests and features solar-powered lighting and cold water bathrooms, with home-cooked meals available in the communal dining room.

9.5 64 reviews

Troppo Mystique Lagoon Sunset Villa.

bungalow

This beachfront villa in Port Vila is conveniently located within a 10km radius of popular attractions like the University of the South Pacific, Tana Russet Plaza, and Nambawan Market & Café, offering easy access to local amenities and cultural experiences. It has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom property features a spacious layout with a kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave oven, perfect for self-catering. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, terrace, garden, and free parking, as well as laundry facilities and ceiling fans for added comfort.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in Vanuatu

What are some hidden gems to explore in Vanuatu?
For hidden gems, consider exploring the less-visited islands like Gaua, with its stunning volcanic crater lake, or the remote islands of the Torres group, offering pristine beaches and traditional village life. The Champagne Beach on Espiritu Santo is also relatively secluded and worth a visit.
Which airport should you arrive at in Vanuatu?
Most international flights arrive at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Efate Island, near Port Vila. This is the main gateway to the archipelago.
What is generally accepted for payment in Vanuatu, cash or card?
While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in Port Vila, cash (Vatu) is still king, especially outside of the main tourist areas. It's best to carry sufficient Vatu for smaller purchases and in more rural locations.
How would you describe the safety of road conditions and driving habits in Vanuatu?
Road conditions in Vanuatu can vary greatly. Main roads on the larger islands are generally okay, but many smaller roads are unsealed and can be challenging, especially after rain. Driving habits are often more relaxed than in many other countries, so caution is advised. Renting a 4x4 is recommended for exploring beyond the main towns.
What steps should you take if your passport goes missing in Vanuatu?
Report the loss to the local police immediately and then contact your nearest embassy or consulate. They will guide you through the process of obtaining emergency travel documents.
Where in Vanuatu should you spend a week to experience the best of the islands?
A week in Vanuatu could ideally include a few days in Port Vila on Efate for its amenities and then exploring another island like Santo for its diverse landscapes, including the Millennium Cave and the breathtaking underwater world of Million Dollar Point.
Where in Vanuatu can you have the best weekend experience?
For a fantastic weekend, Port Vila offers a good balance of relaxation and activities. You could enjoy the beaches, explore the markets, and dine at the various restaurants. Alternatively, a trip to a nearby island for some snorkeling or diving would also be memorable.
What festivals in Vanuatu are highly recommended for visitors?
The annual Independence Day celebrations (30 July) are a significant event, showcasing local culture and traditions. Many islands also hold unique cultural events throughout the year, often linked to local harvests or religious observances. Checking local event listings closer to your travel dates is always advisable.
Does Vanuatu have Uber or comparable ride-hailing services?
No, Vanuatu does not have Uber or similar ride-hailing apps widely available. Taxis and local buses are the common forms of transport.
What’s the top spot in Vanuatu for favourable weather conditions?
Vanuatu's weather is generally tropical, so it's hard to pinpoint one spot for consistently favourable conditions. However, the southern islands tend to experience slightly less rainfall than the northern islands. Checking weather forecasts before and during your trip is recommended.

Best Vanuatu unusual places with a garden

9.9 19 reviews

Glowing View Tree House

cabin

Glowing Mountain View Tree House, near Lenakel, offers unparalleled views of the active Yasur Volcano, its precise location remaining undisclosed but within proximity to the volcano.
This three-bedroom, four-bathroom guesthouse sleeps six, boasting a kitchen, garden, parking, and airport pickup, plus access to local tours and activities.

No reviews

Aore Treehouse | Ocean Views Private Beach

cabin

This unique treehouse accommodation, offering open ocean views, is located on a hill on Aore Island, a short 100-metre walk to the beach, and provides convenient access to local attractions such as blue holes and Champagne Beach.
This off-grid cabin provides a traditional local experience for two guests, featuring a gas stove and power for essential devices, with opportunities for authentic cultural engagement and direct access to local tours including fishing expeditions.

9.3 70 reviews

Twin Room In Big Treehouse - Yasur Backpackers

cabin

This B&B is located just 2 kilometres from the foot of Mount Yasur volcano, on an ancient lava tube in the Tanna district, offering an unforgettable experience of staying in a unique treehouse accommodation built on a massive Banyan Tree. It has excellent user ratings and is highly rated for location and cleanliness.
The treehouse has two private rooms, a twin room and a couple's room, and a central balcony with stunning views of the volcano. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals, electrical charging facilities, fresh drinking water, and access to internet via local prepaid SIM cards. The family that runs the B&B can provide insights into the volcano and surrounding area, as well as offer various activities and guidance on the marvels of Tanna.

9.6 45 reviews

Towoc Bungalows In Pristine Waters

bungalow

This bungalow is situated just a minute's walk from the famous Champagne Beach in Hog Harbour, offering a tranquil retreat with easy access to the area's natural beauty. The property has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall guest experience.
The bungalow comfortably accommodates two guests and features a private setting perfect for a peaceful getaway. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including on-site restaurant and bar, kayak rentals, tours, transfers, and direct access to Champagne Beach.

The widest selection of unusual accommodations in Vanuatu

98 Unique places to stay in Vanuatu

Shared Dormitory - Yasur Backpackers

Hideaway Paradise Family Beach Bungalow 3

Charming Room In Front Of Volcano

Jungle Oasis Bungalow

Fireworks Tree House

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideway Tree House 1

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideaway Treehouse 2

1 Bedroom Camping Style Accommodation Hut

3-bedroom Oceanview Bungalow With Breakfast & Wifi

Bamboo 2

Hideaway Paradise Beach Bungalow 4

Troppo Mystique Lagoon Sunset Villa.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in Vanuatu

Best Vanuatu unusual places with a garden

Glowing View Tree House

Aore Treehouse | Ocean Views Private Beach

Twin Room In Big Treehouse - Yasur Backpackers

Towoc Bungalows In Pristine Waters