To ensure that you get the most enjoyable experience possible from your Vanuatu travels have a read through some of our Travel Tips:
Travel Warnings
As Vanuatu is prone to extreme weather conditions and natural disasters such as; cyclones, earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis, ensure that you check the latest traveller's warnings for travelling to Vanuatu. Current Travel Advise for Vanuatu.
Health & Safety
Check out our Health & Safety Information Page.
Visas
Travellers from the UK & all Commonwealth countries, other EU Countries, USA, Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea & Japan do not require visas for Vanuatu for stays up to 30 days (with the possibilities of extensions of up to 4 months in any period of one year). Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond date of arrival. Visitors pay an entry fee of $25.
Money
It is a good idea to bring enough money in cash to cover your trip to Tanna, as most tours, transfers and accommodation will need to be paid in cash. There is an international ATM (Pacific Bank) located in Lenakel, so if you haven't brought any cash with you take some out before you head over to the east side of Tanna especially.
Travel Insurance
Although Vanuatu is a safe destination, many tours and activities, fall under the 'adventure (dangerous) category'. 'Adventure' activities can include parasailing, scuba diving, motorcycling and even trekking. It is strongly recommended that travel insurance be purchased before arrival into Vanuatu. However, be sure to check that the policy you have taken covers you for the adventures sports category, if you plan to participate in these, as well as medical evacuations (as medical facilities are limited especially in the outer islands)
What to Bring
Here are some handy tips for what to bring. Remember life is simple in the islands, you will just need to be comfortable and not worry too much about fashion and accessories, it's best to blend in a little and relax.
Local Language
The national language of Vanuatu is Bislama (pidgin English) however English and French are also official languages and commonly spoken. There are over 120 distinct native languages and many more dialects spoken in Vanuatu, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.
Take a look at our Bislama Tips page to learn how to say a few things in the Local Pidgin English.
Tipping & Gifting
In accordance with Vanuatu custom neither tipping or bargaining is practised in Vanuatu. If you wish to leave a tip or a gift gesture, please talk to the manager of the establishment where you are staying or eating to find out the best way to do this.
Please don't give gifts of lollies/candy as this encourages a "junk food culture". As diabetes is a real issue in Vanuatu, it's a good idea to gift something more healthy or useful. A gift of clothes, or school supplies is a good idea. Cash gifts are not encouraged unless it is in accordance with an aid program or local charity organisation.
Clothing & Accessories
Outer Island living is simple and has a long history of missionaries which mean that the local dress code is modest and simple, especially for women travellers. It is respectful to wear clothes that cover up your shoulders and skirts below your knees (especially if you're planning to visit the local custom villages). You will also attract less attention from the local men if you dress more conservatively. For Ni-Vanuatu people fashion is not a high priority so it's a good idea if you want to fit in to dress comfortably and simply, and just relax and enjoy the local friendly culture.
Local Time
Vanuatu is one hour ahead of AST (Australian Standard Time) and 11 hours ahead of GST (Greenwich Standard Time or UT). There is no daylight saving in summer. Sunrise is generally around 6am, while sunset is around 6pm. Current time in Vanuatu.
Drinking Water
With little industry or agriculture and no unusual water borne bugs, Vanuatu’s Port Vila and Luganville town water supply is very safe to drink. However, if you're intending to travel to the outer islands, it is recommended that you purchase bottled water for drinking or bring a water filter bottle to save plastic, as there isn't a good waste management system in the outer islands.
Quarantine
Please read through our Quarantine page for carrying goods into Vanuatu and also carrying goods from Vanuatu to your home country.
Taxes (VAT)
There is a 12.5% tax on accommodation, food and most products in Vanuatu, excluding market and local produce. But all taxes are included in advertised prices.
