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 3 reviews

Vanuatu

09/07 – 15/07

£56/nighttotal: £336 (6 )

Tanna Volcano View Treehouse - Mango Treehouse

1 3

cabin , Tafea Province

The Mango Tree House, located in Tafea Province directly opposite the entrance to Yasur Volcano, offers unparalleled views of this active volcano.
This self-catering lodge sleeps four, including children who stay free, and features a shared bathroom, kitchen, dining area, mosquito nets, and a small on-site shop; breakfast is included, with lunch and dinner available on request.

9.3 3 reviews

Vanuatu

09/07 – 15/07

£113/nighttotal: £678 (6 )

Island View Cottages 1 Bedroom Aore Island Vanuatu

1 3

bungalow , Sanma Province

This bungalow is situated on a secluded island in Sanma Province, just a short distance from Cindy's Reef, a popular snorkeling and kayaking spot. The property has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The self-contained cottage offers one bedroom and one bathroom, comfortably accommodating two guests. Amenities include a private outdoor deck, BBQ facilities, bikes, kayaks, and access to three traditional nakamals, perfect for relaxing and exploring the surrounding area.

9.7 14 reviews

Vanuatu

08/07 – 10/09

£40/nighttotal: £2560 (64 )

Jungle Oasis Bungalow

1 1

cabin , Yasur

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.

8.9 7 reviews

Vanuatu

15/07 – 21/07

£50/nighttotal: £300 (6 )

Malekula Holiday Villas

2 5

bungalow , Vanuatu

Malekula Holiday Villas are located near Lakatoro on Malekula Island, Vanuatu, a short 3-kilometre drive from Norsup Airport and within walking distance of Aop Beach.
These self-contained bungalows offer two bedrooms, two bathrooms, sleeping up to six guests, and include a private living room, kitchen, balcony, breakfast, free airport transfers, parking, and access to on-site recreational areas and tour bookings.

9.6 43 reviews

Vanuatu

22/08 – 29/08

£46/nighttotal: £322 (7 )

Towoc Bungalows In Pristine Waters

1 2

bungalow , Hog Harbour

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.

Vanuatu

04/09 – 18/09

£20/nighttotal: £280 (14 )

Beautiful Few Of The Volcano.

1 6

cabin , Isangel

This lodge is located in the Isangel district, offering a tranquil natural setting with opportunities for adventure.
This cabin accommodates up to seven guests and is designed for shared experiences and family enjoyment, providing a peaceful retreat.

Vanuatu

08/07 – 15/07

£94/nighttotal: £658 (7 )

Beachside Fare

1 3

yurt , Epule

This Epule yurt, at Le Life Resort, is situated on the beachfront, 59 km from Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
The self-catering round tent sleeps four guests, includes a fridge, private patio, and access to shared kitchen facilities, a BBQ area, and resort activities such as kayaking and cooking classes.

10 3 reviews

Vanuatu

27/06 – 04/07

£302/nighttotal: £2114 (7 )

Santo Sunset ‘Palms’ Beach Villa @ Surunda Bay

1 2

bungalow , Surunda

This beachfront bungalow in Luganville, Santo, offers a private 200-metre beach and is a 20-minute drive (approximately 12 kilometres) from Luganville Airport.
The self-contained unit sleeps two guests in one bedroom with a king-size Tempur mattress, features a kitchenette with Nespresso machine, and provides access to kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment for exploring the nearby coral garden.

9.7 119 reviews

Vanuatu

24/07 – 10/08

£38/nighttotal: £646 (17 )

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideway Tree House 1

3 2

cabin , Lenakel

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.

9.7 6 reviews

Vanuatu

22/08 – 29/08

£71/nighttotal: £497 (7 )

3-bedroom Oceanview Bungalow With Breakfast & Wifi

1 2

bungalow , Port-Vila

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.

9.3 3 reviews

Vanuatu

15/07 – 22/07

£62/nighttotal: £434 (7 )

Shabba’s By The Sea

1 2

cabin , Pangona Estate

Shabba's cabin, a self-catering lodge in Pangona Estate, is located 16 kilometres from the estate's town centre, offering secluded accommodation within a 1.5-hectare nature reserve.
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom retreat sleeps four guests and boasts a kitchen, parking, internet access, and unique features including a private underwater cave with flashlight fish, ideal for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

9.6 61 reviews

Vanuatu

21/07 – 29/07

£200/nighttotal: £1600 (8 )

Troppo Mystique Lagoon Sunset Villa.

2 2

bungalow , Port-Vila

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

9.2 68 reviews

Vanuatu

24/07 – 10/08

£27/nighttotal: £459 (17 )

Twin Room In Big Treehouse - Yasur Backpackers

1 2

cabin , Yasur

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.

9.8 8 reviews

Vanuatu

27/06 – 04/07

£85/nighttotal: £595 (7 )

Bungalow On The Ocean

1 2

bungalow , Port-Vila

Oceanfront bungalows, a 20-minute (32 km) drive from Port Vila Airport and 30 minutes (48 km) from Port Vila town centre, offer easy access to Water World and a nearby beach bar.
These self-contained units, sleeping two guests, feature king-size beds, kitchenettes, and private gardens, with access to kayaking, ziplining, and the underwater post office; a minimum seven-day stay applies.

10 50 reviews

Vanuatu

08/07 – 15/07

£91/nighttotal: £637 (7 )

Aore Hibiscus Retreat By The Water

1 3

bungalow , Luganville

The Aore Hibiscus Retreat is situated on Aore Island, just off the coast of Luganville, offering a secluded beachfront location with direct access to the water. The property has been rated excellent for location, cleanliness, and user experience.
This self-catering bungalow sleeps up to four guests and features an open plan design. The property has a full kitchen, a garden, parking, internet access, and allows pets. Guests can enjoy the warm waters of the Segond Channel, stunning sunsets, and easy access to snorkeling and diving opportunities.

9.6 155 reviews

Vanuatu

11/09 – 18/09

£42/nighttotal: £294 (7 )

Absolute Beach Front Bungalows

1 3

bungalow , Hog Harbour

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.

The widest selection of unusual accommodations in Vanuatu

81 Unique places to stay in Vanuatu

Tanna Volcano View Treehouse - Mango Treehouse

Island View Cottages 1 Bedroom Aore Island Vanuatu

Jungle Oasis Bungalow

Malekula Holiday Villas

Towoc Bungalows In Pristine Waters

Beautiful Few Of The Volcano.

Beachside Fare

Santo Sunset ‘Palms’ Beach Villa @ Surunda Bay

Mt Yasur's Volcanic Hideway Tree House 1

3-bedroom Oceanview Bungalow With Breakfast & Wifi

Shabba’s By The Sea

Troppo Mystique Lagoon Sunset Villa.

Frequently asked questions about unique stays in Vanuatu

Best Vanuatu unusual places with a garden

Twin Room In Big Treehouse - Yasur Backpackers

Bungalow On The Ocean

Aore Hibiscus Retreat By The Water

Absolute Beach Front Bungalows