Vanuatu in a nutshell
Vanuatu might not be the first name on your travel list, but this archipelago is as close to a desert island dream as it gets. Located in the heart of the Pacific, it sits within striking distance of New Caledonia and Australia. You will find pristine beaches, active volcanoes, and a deep, living culture waiting for you.
Islands for every type of traveler
With eighty distinct islands to choose from, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Each island maintains its own unique traditions and social structures, which makes it a fascinating place for those interested in anthropology. You can visit various kastom villages, provided you approach them with respect for the local way of life. While Cyclone Pam left its mark in 2015, the nation has shown remarkable resilience. Most travelers focus their time on three main islands: Efate, Tanna, and Espiritu Santo.
You will inevitably land on Efate, home to the capital city of Port-Vila. It is an easygoing place with a genuinely welcoming population. After a day of relaxing, you can grab fresh fish at one of the beachside restaurants. Since tropical forest covers most of the island, life here is centered along the coast. Expect incredible beaches and easy access to snorkeling spots filled with coral and schools of colorful fish.
On the island of Tanna, you have the rare opportunity to see the Mount Yasur volcano, which is consistently active. Many locals consider the site sacred, believing it to be a place where they can hear the voices of the gods. If you are up for it, guided excursions can take you right to the crater rim. For a taste of local life, look for a traditional dance performance and try some kava, a Melanesian drink made from pressed shrub roots.
Espiritu Santo is a magnet for serious divers. Sites like The Millenium Cave, the Blue Hole, and the Coolidge offer underwater experiences that are hard to match for biodiversity. The island is also home to several pottery-making villages where artisans have been passing down their techniques for centuries.
If you prefer to get further off the grid, consider heading to some of the outlying islands. Visit Epi to spot dugongs and sea turtles, trek through the jungle on Malekula, or witness the intense naghol ritual on Pentecost, which is widely considered to be the ancestor of modern bungee jumping.
When to go
The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry season, which runs from May through October. That said, if you do not mind a few passing showers, the islands are accessible year-round. Temperatures stay warm enough for swimming no matter when you arrive.
How to get there
There are no direct flights from the US. You will likely have one or two layovers, often in hubs like Sydney or Brisbane. Expect a total travel time of at least 29 hours. It is a long haul, but the remoteness is exactly what makes the destination special.