Weather & climate

Vanuatu has a sup-tropical climate that boasts warm weather year round. Summer (from November to April) temperatures average around 28-30° Celcius, while winter (May to October) temperatures average 23-26° Celsius. Sea temperature average between 22-28° Celsius throughout the year, making it perfect fro year round swimming. November through February sees the heaviest rainfall and highest humidity levels. Tropical cyclones can occur during the summer months.

Passports & visas

Australian and New Zealand passport holders don’t require a visa. You will, however, need a current passport with two blank pages and six months’ validity from the date you return home, along with a return air ticket.

Health

Consult your GP or a travel doctor at least six weeks before you travel. You may be required or recommended to get vaccinations for measles, rabies, typhoid and hepatitis A & B, among others. Malaria is present in Vanuatu so malaria prophylactics are recommended, along with insect repellent.

Getting there

Vanuatu has two international airports, Bauerfield Airport on Efate and Pekoa Airport on Espiritu Santo, located just outside Port Vila and Luganville respectively. There are also smaller airports on some of the smaller islands, that accept only domestic and charter flights.

Travelling between Vanuatu’s 83 is easily done by domestic or charter flight, or heading out on the seas for an adventurous speedboat or sailboat trip.

Getting around

Getting around Vanuatu is fun and easy, with a number of options from private, public, and self drive. Private road transfers and hotel transfers take the stress out of your inter-hotel travel, while public taxi and buses are an adventurous and fun way to explore the islands like a local. Hire cars are available for those who prefer to self drive and explore at their own pace, and private guides and tours are perfect for those who love local expertise and insight into the island. Head out on foot to explore the islands’ stunning beaches and lush rain forests.

Currency & language

The local currency is the Vatu (VT). ATMs are only available in the international airports, in Port Vila on the island of Efate, and in Luganville on Espiritu Santo. Currency exchange services are also available in Port Vila. Credit cards are accepted in most major hotels, while cash is preferred in most shops and restaurants. Australian dollars may also be accepted in Port Vila.

English, French, and Bislama (pidgin English) are the official languages in Vanuatu, and there are also over 120 other languages and dialects spoken.