Vanuatu, a beautiful island nation in the South Pacific, is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway or honeymoon. This stunning island nation in the South Pacific offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Vanuatu has it all. From tranquil moments on the beach to exploring the vibrant local culture, you’ll create unforgettable memories when you holiday or honeymoon in this tropical paradise.
To make the most of your holiday or honeymoon to Vanuatu, we’ve put together this comprehensive travel guide for couples. So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible romantic getaway in Vanuatu.
Introduction to Vanuatu and its culture
Vanuatu consists of 83 islands, with 68 of them being uninhabited. It was first settled by Austronesian-speaking people around 4,000 years ago, but there is limited information about their early history. The recorded history began when Europeans arrived during the age of discoveries. Pedro Fernandes de Queiros, a Portuguese explorer working for the Spanish king, named one of the islands “La Australía del Espiritu Santo” (the Southern Lands of the Holy Spirit).
This tropical paradise is a one-of-a-kind and enchanting place to visit, with its breathtaking natural landscapes, fascinating cultural legacy, and welcoming tribal communities. For couples, the charming boutique resorts on immaculate white sand beaches are heaven-on-earth, offering an unspoiled setting for a romantic getaway or honeymoon.
Vanuatu locals are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanour – and we suspect this will be one of your favourite aspects about your time in Vanuatu. Those big smiles are absolutely intoxicating!
You can’t help but notice the strong sense of community and connectedness felt in every aspect of the locals’ (known as ni-Vanuatu) lives. It is one of the many things that remind visitors to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
Activities: beaches, hiking & cultural experiences in Vanuatu
Vanuatu is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and white sand. Top beaches include Champagne Beach, Port Olry Beach, and Hideaway Island Beach.
For those who love hiking, there are plenty of trails to explore, including the Mount Yasur volcano hike and the Mele Cascades waterfall hike.
To experience the local culture, visit the Vanuatu Cultural Centre and attend a traditional dance performance.
Other popular activities include snorkelling, scuba diving, and seeing the Blue Lagoon. But there’s more to this tropical paradise than sun loungers and shellfish. Fall in love with the culture and traditions of Vanuatu for a romantic island getaway.
Vanuatu adventure activities
Vanuatu, known for introducing bungee jumping to the world using tree roots, offers visitors a chance to experience the thrill of flying high. While the ancient land-diving ritual on Pentecost Island still exists, where men and boys as young as seven jump from a 20 to a 30-metre-high man-made tower with only a vine attached to their legs, there are less extreme but still adventurous options for travellers to explore. Here are some exciting ways to discover the adventurous side to Vanuatu.
Related article: 5 of the Best South Pacific Islands for a Romantic Getaway
The Jungle Zipline in Port Vila takes adventure seekers soaring through a canopy at a height of about four stories, through the Mele Bay and the Port Vila Harbour. This 200-metre-long trip soars above an 80-metre-high canyon, on six ziplines, over two suspension bridges and above a stunning waterfall.
Not enough adrenalin for you? There’s now a Big Zip Trek, which starts on the ground but traverses back and forth over ravines. This zipline is 1.3km long and involves some trekking. Still don’t have the jitters? Why not take the Heli-Zipline Combo Tour? On this trip you take a 15-minute fast-paced flight up and down the canyon, with stunning views over the city, coastline and plantations, before becoming rigged up for your zipline adventure.
For adventure with some serious spark, head over to the island of Tanna to Mount Yasur, regarded as the world’s most accessible active volcano. Amid the stark moonscape, the brave and curious can scramble up the crater rim and be rewarded by a magnificent fireworks display, best viewed at night. Air Taxi Vanuatu even offers scenic flights over the volcano. There’s also a number of 4WD tours across the ash plains to the foot of the volcano and then it’s just a 10-minute hike to the rim to experience the rumble deep within the mountain and witness an explosive crash of lava.
Back in Port Vila, a really cool adventure is a high-speed water tour with Zego Sports Craft Adventures. These sea safaris take in the most beautiful beaches and coves, allowing travellers to spot sea turtles and dugongs.
More unique things to do & see In Vanuatu
Visit untouched Port Olry for an insight into the real Vanuatu
The charming village of Port Olry is a hidden gem located at the end of Espiritu Santo Island’s sealed road. It feels like a secluded paradise and is the biggest village on Santo and the second biggest in Vanuatu, offering a unique blend of activities and relaxation. Despite being a popular fishing and produce trade hub, Port Olry has managed to maintain its authenticity and distinct feel by staying relatively untouched by modernisation. Visitors must not miss the stunning views and secluded Malet Island, accessible during low tide.
Port Olry stands out for its refusal to fully embrace Western ways, providing a unique and incredible experience. Whether you want to relax on the magnificent beach or explore the many activities available, Port Olry has something for everyone.
Visit the underwater post office
There is a one-of-a-kind underwater post office near Mele’s coast, a small island in Vanuatu. Visitors must dive to the ocean floor to access this fully-functional post office and drop off their waterproof postcards in the post box. Buying embossed waterproof postcards on land is essential if you wish to send them from this unique location. Remember that the post box is only open at specific hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
Soak in the hot springs
Located northeast of Efate, the Nasinu Hot Springs is approximately an hour’s drive from Port Vila. Operated by a local family, the thermal springs are simple in design and lack modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the natural thermal pools and a mud bath, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits. Additionally, there is a nearby restaurant.
Horse riding at Club Hippique Adventure Park
While horse riding might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a tropical getaway to Vanuatu, it’s a fun way to explore! Situated 10 minutes from Port Villa, Club Hippique offers a number of horse riding experiences for couples of all abilities. Explore Vanuatu’s tranquil rainforests on horseback, watch the sun set on a beach ride or for something extra special, ride through Vanuatu’s countryside before cooling off in private cascade pools, followed by a picnic lunch with beer, wine and Champagne.
Land diving tour to Pentecost
Vanuatu is not only famous for its volcanos but also its ties with bungee jumping. Experience both these things and book a Land Diving Tour to Pentecost. Fly over the breathtaking active volcanoes of Lopevi and Ambrym Island to reach Lonorore airport, where you can watch the famous death-defying acts of the brave locals at the Nagol Land Diving Festival. Held between April and June, they jump from 30 metre high hand-crafted towers with only vines to break their fall. Enjoy an amazing display of traditional dance and music with your loved one before flying to the serene Epi island for lunch and a swim with the local Dugongs.
Blue Cave Tour
The nation of Vanuatu is made up of around 80 small islands. Go island hopping and see all the diverse and amazing things Vanuatu has to offer. A short flight from the capital, Port Villa, will take you to the magical and tranquil Tanna Island. While here, we recommend you book a tour to Vanuatu’s famous Blue Cave. You will discover a world of natural beauty when you take a boat trip with the local fishermen along the coast. If you keep your eye out you might see some of Vanuatu’s other locals – dolphins and turtles. Your tour guide will lead you into the cave where you can swim in crystal clear blue water, surrounded by a colourful kaleidoscope of tropical fish and coral. Submerse yourself in a world of your own and experience a place like no other.
Tips for staying safe and healthy in Vanuatu.
When traveling to Vanuatu, there are a few things to keep in mind around safety. While the country is generally safe, petty theft can occur, so it’s best to avoid walking alone at night and to secure your valuables. It’s also recommended to avoid carrying large amounts of cash. While crime is rare, it’s always better to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Drinking bottled water and being cautious with food are both recommended, avoiding street vendors. Before travelling to Vanuatu, it’s advisable to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid.
Food in Vanuatu
Experience the delectable fusion of fresh seafood, root vegetables, coconuts, and tropical fruits in Vanuatuan cuisine. Savour the mouthwatering lap lap, a delightful baked yam pudding, and the flavour-packed simboro, a banana leaf-wrapped steamed roll. Seafood enthusiasts will relish the extensive selection of tuna, Red Emperor, Parrotfish, Cod, and lobster. Also, try the traditional non-alcoholic drink, kava, with its mild narcotic effect, that’s popular among locals. It’s commonly consumed at dusk and is a time-honoured beverage for all social gatherings.
What is the best time of year to visit Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is a beautiful destination that can be visited any time of the year, but the ideal temperature range of 18-28 degrees Celsius is usually experienced from May to October, which is also known as the dry season. The weather is most comfortable, with warm temperatures and low humidity during this period. To reach Vanuatu, you can take a flight to the capital city of Port Vila or join a cruise that includes Vanuatu in their itineraries. After arrival, you can choose from various transportation options such as taxis, buses, and rental cars.
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