23 Best Vanuatu Attractions You Can’t Miss in 2025 (Local Picks)

Picture this – locals leap from 30-meter-high towers with vines tied to their ankles. This ancient ritual gave birth to modern bungee jumping and stands as just one of Vanuatu’s countless attractions that make this Pacific paradise extraordinary.

This stunning archipelago of more than 80 islands stretches over 600 kilometers between Australia and Fiji. We explored it all and can tell you – there’s no place like it on Earth. Each year, only 45,000 tourists visit this hidden gem. Those who make the trip will find everything from active volcanoes with crater-edge views to the world’s largest available shipwreck, the SS President Coolidge.

Your adventures here could range from mailing postcards at an underwater post office to swimming in crystal-clear blue lagoons. We’ve put together our carefully selected list of 23 must-visit spots in Vanuatu. These spots aren’t tourist traps – they offer authentic experiences that showcase this remarkable nation’s natural wonders, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures.

Land Diving on Pentecost Island

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The southern part of Pentecost Island hosts an extraordinary ritual that stands out as one of Vanuatu’s most remarkable attractions. The land diving ceremony, known locally as Nagol or Gol, happens every Saturday between April and June.

Land Diving Ceremony

Local men and boys perform spectacular dives from wooden towers that reach heights of 20 to 30 meters. Their only safety measure consists of two tree vines wrapped around their ankles. Building these towers requires meticulous attention and takes five weeks to complete with vines and wooden stilts from the forest. Each ceremony features 10 different jumpers. Young boys start from lower platforms, and experienced divers tackle the highest levels.

Land Diving History

A fascinating legend tells the story of Tamalie, a woman who escaped her abusive husband by jumping from a tree with vines tied to her ankles. Women performed this act in solidarity at first, but the practice evolved into a male-only ritual. The ceremony now serves as a fertility rite, tests courage, and celebrates the annual yam harvest.

Land Diving Viewing Tips

Here’s everything you need to know to experience this spectacular event:

• You can watch ceremonies only on Saturdays from April to June
• Expect to pay between 10,000 and 12,000 vatu (around USD 100-120) per person
• The whole ritual lasts about two hours
• You can take photos and watch from different spots around the tower

The experience ends with a traditional island feast where you can taste local delicacies like lap lap, Vanuatu’s national dish.

Mount Marum Volcano

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Looking into one of only five lava lakes in the world from Mount Marum’s crater edge creates an adventure that defines Vanuatu’s tourism.

Mount Marum Hiking

The experience to Mount Marum’s summit starts with a challenging 4-hour trek to the base camp. The trail winds through a variety of terrains. It starts in dense jungle paths and leads to an expansive ash plain. Reaching the summit takes about 1.5 hours on loose volcanic ash where your feet sink ankle-deep. Hikers usually start at 4:30 PM and reach the summit by sunset. The bubbling lava lake creates spectacular views below.

Mount Marum Safety

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department enforces strict safety protocols. Visitors must remain outside a 2-kilometer radius around Marum Crater. The volcano releases acidic smoke that requires gas masks. Alert levels go from 0 to 5, with operations running at Level 2. Guides mark safe viewing spots with lines in the ash to protect visitors at the crater’s edge.

Mount Marum Tours

You need professional guides to climb the volcano. Tours run from three main routes:

• North Route: Available from Ranon with single-day options
• Southwest Route: Starts from Port Vatu and needs overnight camping
• East Route: Begins at Endu with a 6.5-hour trek to the ash plain

Most people choose overnight stays, though single-day treks work from the northern route. The lava lake’s glow clarifies the crater best at dusk. Tour operators give you the essential equipment like gas masks and safety gear.

Blue Cave

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The Blue Cave sits hidden under limestone cliffs on Tanna Island’s northwest coast. This natural wonder shows off its beauty through glowing waters and magical light displays.

Blue Cave Swimming

A quick underwater swim takes first-time visitors into the cave. The entrance stays above water at low tide, making it easy to get in. The cave chamber is huge – 60 meters across with plenty of room to swim in crystal-clear water. Daniel and Rachel Talap, the local owners, keep a close eye on sea conditions and stop tours when the weather gets rough.

Blue Cave Access

You can get to the cave by taking a 4WD ride from Lenakel that takes 1-2 hours, or hop on a boat from White Grass for a 30-40 minute trip. The entrance fee is 2000 vatu per person, which helps support the local community. The cave is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Tours come with all the snorkeling gear you’ll need.

Blue Cave Photography

A 5-meter hole in the cave’s roof creates amazing photo opportunities. Here’s how to get the best shots:

• Stand near the central rock platform where sunbeams create dramatic light rays
• Set your camera for low-light conditions
• Get shots of the glowing blue water in mid-morning
• Include both the underwater entrance and roof opening in your photos

The Talap family built a bungalow above the cave. This gives photographers more time to capture this amazing Vanuatu spot in different lights.

Riri Blue Hole

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Riri Blue Hole shines as a magical oasis with its clear waters flowing through one of Vanuatu’s most pristine rivers.

Riri Blue Hole Activities

The peaceful waters offer more than just swimming. Visitors can enjoy several activities:

• Ride a traditional outrigger canoe upstream
• Grab some snorkeling gear to spot underwater life
• Jump from the rope swing into cool waters
• Relax and watch colorful fish swim beneath

Riri Blue Hole Features

A stunning blue lagoon sits surrounded by dense jungle. The site has concrete platforms, bathrooms, and changing rooms that make visits more comfortable. The water stays crystal clear year-round and is deep enough for swimming, with some shallow spots. Visitors can rest in a wooden pavilion or walk concrete paths that lead to viewing spots.

Riri Blue Hole Location

The site lies 23 kilometers from Luganville, and you can reach it by car in about 30 minutes. Two paths lead to this natural wonder – a quick walk from where you park or a scenic canoe ride upstream. Each person pays 500 vatu to enter, and the canoe ride costs an extra 500 vatu. Visitors quickly see why locals call this Santo’s most beautiful blue hole.

Port Vila Handicraft Market

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The Handicraft Market serves as a cultural hub along Port Vila’s vibrant waterfront, where local artisans display their traditional craftsmanship.

Market Shopping Guide

More than 50 vendors call this market home, and they operate Monday through Saturday. Visitors who arrive early get the best selection and enjoy a quiet shopping experience. Most vendors prefer cash payments since card facilities aren’t available. You’ll find the market right next to Port Vila Market, making it a perfect spot to learn about local culture.

Market Local Crafts

Authentic Vanuatu-made items fill the market stalls:

• Traditional wood carvings from local timbers
• Intricately woven baskets, mats, and hats
• Hand-crafted jewelry and clothing
• Authentic tam-tams and animal figurines

Each piece narrates a story and artisans craft them from wood, stone, coral, or volcanic materials. Local craftspeople often demonstrate their techniques, which helps visitors learn about traditional methods.

Market Bargaining Tips

Bargaining is welcome, but respect matters most. Start your conversation with “Bislama” (hello) and ask about the item’s cultural significance. Some items have fixed prices, so watch for signs before negotiating. Authentic items usually carry “Handmade in Vanuatu” stickers. Modest dress is important, and you should always get permission before taking photos.

Tanna Coffee Factory

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Beneath Mount Yasur volcano’s shadow, pure Arabica coffee beans thrive in rich volcanic soil. These beans have become one of Vanuatu’s most distinctive agricultural treasures.

Coffee Tour Experience

The Tanna Coffee Factory in Port Vila gives visitors a close-up look at coffee production. Housed in a converted 1900s church, the facility fills the air with aromatic scents of freshly roasted beans. Visitors can take walk-in tours during operating hours to learn about the bean-to-cup experience.

Coffee Tasting

The coffee’s distinctive characteristics include:

• Full-bodied with rich aromatics
• Pleasant nutty flavor
• Smooth, non-bitter aftertaste
• Unique volcanic soil influence

A charming coffee shop next to the factory serves fresh brews with locally made cakes. The beans grow at 400 meters above sea level in an average temperature of 18°C. This unique environment creates a remarkable cup that coffee enthusiasts worldwide have come to appreciate.

Coffee Production Process

More than 1,000 village-based farmers use traditional organic methods passed down through generations to grow this exceptional coffee. The beans go through careful processing steps:

• Hand-harvesting of optimally ripe cherries
• Same-day processing using natural fermentation
• Sun-drying techniques

The factory supports about 5,000 indigenous people, which makes up 15% of Tanna Island’s population. This environmentally responsible approach ended up creating exceptional coffee quality and provides vital income for remote island communities.

Cascades Waterfall

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Mele Cascades, a natural waterpark with crystal-clear pools and stunning waterfalls, sits just minutes away from Port Vila’s busy center in Vanuatu’s tropical paradise.

Cascades Activities

A 20-minute walk from the base leads to a breathtaking 35-meter waterfall. Visitors can enjoy five different swimming pools that line the path. The top pool hides a secret cave behind the falls and creates perfect spots for photos. Water channels through limestone pathways guide adventurers under refreshing cascades.

Cascades Facilities

The site provides everything needed to spend a full day exploring:

• A cozy café and bar overlooking the river
• Clean changing rooms and showers
• Family-friendly picnic spots
• WiFi coverage near the base area

Cascades Access

The cascades sit 10-15 minutes from Port Vila and open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Adult tourists pay 2,000 vatu (about USD 25), while children under 12 pay 1,000 vatu. Visitors can reach the site by local ‘B’-licensed busses or tour groups. The site gets busy with 600-1,000 visitors during cruise ship days. In spite of that, metal rods and ropes along the pathways make navigation safe through this natural wonder.

Vanuatu National Museum

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The National Museum at the Vanuatu Cultural Center stands as a guardian of this South Pacific nation’s rich heritage. The museum connects artifacts to their social significance in remarkable ways.

Museum Exhibits

A fascinating collection spanning 3,000 years of history fills the museum’s halls. Visitors will find:

• Traditional tools and ceremonial masks
• Archeological artifacts from early settlers
• Pre-historic shells and fossils
• Scale models of outrigger canoes
• Indigenous art collections

Museum Cultural Shows

Museum guide Edgar makes every visit special with his demonstrations of UNESCO-listed Vanuatu sand drawing art. Visitors can enjoy traditional music performances that feature bamboo instrument demonstrations and local anthems. The museum’s Kastom School helps pass indigenous arts and stories to younger generations.

Museum Visiting Hours

The museum opens Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and Saturdays from 8 AM to noon. Adult tickets cost 1,000 vatu for general admission or 1,500 vatu with a guided tour. Children can enter for 200 vatu. Guided tours feature sand drawing demonstrations, traditional flute music, and custom showcases.

Special exhibitions run throughout the year. The “Happy Long Life” exhibition shows themes of Indigenous Land, Respect for the Environment, and Traditional Leadership. This cultural institution connects Vanuatu’s past and present, making it a must-visit spot to understand local traditions.

Iririki Island

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A private tropical paradise sits just a three-minute ferry ride from Port Vila’s mainland. This stunning 69-acre destination perfectly blends luxury with island charm.

Iririki Island Resort

The resort went through a complete renovation in 2016 and now offers accommodation options in a variety of styles. Guests can choose between traditional island bungalows and modern ocean view penthouses. Two distinctive swimming pools grace the property – an infinity pool with harbor views and a series of cascading sunset pools. The signature dining spot, Azure Restaurant, serves local organic produce and fresh seafood.

Iririki Island Activities

The resort’s main activity hub centers around a 130-meter beach next to the main jetty. Guests can enjoy several complimentary activities:

• Crystal-clear snorkeling at Snorkeler’s Cove
• Water sports with kayaks and paddleboards
• Tennis matches on two full-sized courts
• Workouts in a fully-equipped gymnasium

The resort runs daily activities that showcase local culture through weaving sessions, historical walks, and traditional cooking demonstrations. For indoor entertainment, guests can head to the games room to enjoy table tennis and pool.

Iririki Island Transport

Getting to and from the island is easy with a complimentary ferry service. Boats run every 20 minutes, and late-night transport is available through a call button. The quick three-minute trip makes the island’s restaurants, spa facilities, and pristine beaches available to overnight guests and day visitors alike.

Gaspard Bay

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The crystal-clear waters of Gaspard Bay hide a wonderful secret. Gentle giants of the sea graze peacefully in their natural habitat. This secluded spot has become one of Vanuatu’s most captivating marine attractions.

Gaspard Bay Dugongs

The bay’s protected waters are a vital feeding ground for 10 to 20 dugongs that show up during high tide. These majestic creatures swim with their calves near the bay’s seagrass beds, which border the mangrove edges. Weather affects visibility, but you can hear the dugongs’ distinctive snorting sounds and tail slaps that signal their presence.

Gaspard Bay Activities

The bay’s Dravail Conservation Area has more to offer than dugong watching. Visitors can:

• Snorkel along vibrant coral reefs in the Marine Protected Area
• Learn traditional crab hunting techniques from local guides
• Enjoy picnicking on private beaches
• Explore the pristine coastal environment

Gaspard Bay Tours

Your half-day adventure starts at Lamap Point, with tours costing 2,200 VT per person. Kids between 8-12 years get a 50% discount. Tour operators give you all the gear you need:

• Snorkel gear and masks
• Life jackets
• Traditional outrigger canoe transport
• Refreshments

Tours need two people minimum and eight maximum to run. Dugongs follow their natural patterns, so tours match high tide times to give you the best chance of seeing them. You’ll spend 2-3 hours watching these remarkable marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Ambrym Volcano

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Ambrym Island sits in Vanuatu’s volcanic heart with a massive 12-kilometer-wide caldera. Two active volcanoes reshape the scene and influence the local way of life.

Ambrym Volcano Trekking

Adventurers can reach these geological wonders through three main routes: Port Vato in the west, Ranvetlam in the north, and Endu in the southeast. Visitors can choose between single-day tours and multi-day expeditions. The path winds through dense jungle before opening onto a big ash plain that surrounds the volcanic peaks.

Ambrym Volcano Culture

Local traditions have deep roots in the island’s volcanic nature, which shows in the famous Rom dance performances. Mystical black sand beaches complement this cultural hub. Ambrym’s exclusive Rom dance weaves volcanic symbolism throughout its performance. Dancers wear elaborate masks that stay hidden until the ceremonies begin.

Ambrym Volcano Guide

Tourism Department-certified guides lead every expedition. These experts keep visitors safe through key safety rules:

• Keep away from ground cracks from the 2018 eruption
• Respect safety zones (1-km radius for Benbow, 2-km for Marum)
• Listen to guides about gas emissions and volcanic activity

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department watches volcanic activity levels and adjusts access permissions based on conditions. Local guides are a great way to get support with their First Aid certification and deep knowledge of the terrain.

Eton Beach

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Eton Beach sits along Efate’s southeastern coastline, with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters that natural rock formations protect.

Eton Beach Activities

The sheltered cove creates perfect conditions for water activities. Visitors can:

• Swim safely in waters protected from ocean swells
• Snorkel to see vibrant corals and small fish
• Learn about the fascinating ‘fossil’ reef limestone
• Walk the 2-kilometer shoreline

Eton Beach Facilities

Simple amenities make this natural paradise comfortable for visitors. Several individual huts serve as spots to picnic and store belongings. Guests will find concrete platforms and changing rooms ready to use. The beach also has multiple shelters that provide needed shade from the tropical sun.

Eton Beach Access

The beach sits 20 kilometers from Port Vila and is accessible through Kumul Highway. Visitors can take local busses for 200 VT or private taxis that cost between 1,500-2,000 VT. Adult entrance fees are a reasonable 500 VT. The beach entrance has parking spaces that fit private vehicles and tour busses. High tide offers the best conditions to swim and snorkel.

Summit Gardens

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The Summit Gardens towers 200 meters above sea level and stands as the South Pacific’s largest tropical garden. This beautiful garden covers 10 hectares of carefully designed landscape.

Gardens Flora

The garden has 11 unique sections that draw inspiration from tropical gardens in Asia, Australia, and America. The grounds feature beautiful sandalwood plantations and plants that produce essential oils. The garden’s Essential Oils Distillery creates oils from local plants like sandalwood, Tahitian lime, mandarin, and ginger.

Gardens Walking Trails

Beautiful paths connect different sections of the garden and lead visitors through stunning landscapes. The escarpment garden lets you take in spectacular views of Mele Bay. Most visitors spend 2-3 hours on these paths. You can also join guided tours to learn about the botanical collections.

Gardens Events

The garden’s staff demonstrates how they make beauty and health products at their distillery. The garden welcomes visitors from 8 AM to 6 PM daily, and you can take landrover tours around the sandalwood estates. What started as a hobby in 2000 has grown into one of Vanuatu’s top attractions. You can choose between guided tours or explore at your own pace.

Moso Island

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Moso Island sits at the northwestern tip of Efate. This stunning paradise combines turquoise waters with pristine beaches and authentic island life.

Moso Island Activities

The island’s clear waters make it perfect for exploration. The Moso Vanuatu has plenty to offer with water activities at its heart:

• Snorkeling in hidden reefs teeming with marine life
• Cave and grotto exploration tours
• Island hopping excursions
• Traditional village visits to Tassiriki and Sunae

The Tranquility Turtle Sanctuary lets you learn about hawksbill turtle conservation. Nature lovers can enjoy bush walks and wildlife viewing that create lasting memories.

Moso Island Accommodation

Watermark has earned its reputation with an amazing beachfront spot. The resort keeps high standards with professional finishes and clean facilities. Tranquility Island Eco Dive Resort gives you a taste of island life in stylish beach huts built from local materials. Guests can enjoy solar power, WiFi in specific areas, and hot water showers.

Moso Island Transport

You’ll need a 40-minute drive from Port Vila International Airport and a 15-minute boat ride to reach the island. Day trips run from 10 AM to 5 PM, and you should book ahead. The cost is 2,000 vatu per person. Boats leave from Moso Landing, just 2 kilometers down the Meden road. Kids under 16 can visit during specific hours with special permission.

Lonnoc Beach

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The powdery white sands of Lonnoc Beach stretch along Espiritu Santo’s untouched northern coastline. A unique freshwater spring creates fascinating layers of cool water in the sea.

Lonnoc Beach Features

The stunning shoreline lives up to its name, which means “white sand” in the local dialect. Fresh water flows through the powdered sand and creates distinct temperature layers in the ocean – a remarkable natural phenomenon. The beach sits among acres of lush rainforest that provide a perfect mix of shady spots and sun-drenched shores.

Lonnoc Beach Activities

The crystal-clear waters are perfect for:

• Swimming in layers of fresh and salt water
• Snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs
• Kayaking along the untouched coastline (free for guests)
• Beach volleyball and shoreline walks

Lonnoc Eco Beach Bungalows helps you plan many more adventures. You can go fishing, take quad bike tours, or join boat trips to Elephant Island – a premier snorkeling spot just 3.5 kilometers offshore.

Lonnoc Beach Access

The beach is 45 kilometers north of Luganville. You’ll need to turn right at the Champagne Beach sign, 1 kilometer before Hog Harbor. A five-minute drive down a dirt road through farming land guides you to the beach. Lonnoc Eco Beach Bungalows has eight bungalows, twin-bed huts, and a ten-person dormitory. The resort’s restaurant serves international dishes made with organic, locally-grown produce.

Vanuatu Jungle Zipline

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The Pacific’s longest zipline adventure awaits you in Vanuatu. You can soar through the rainforest canopy at heights up to 200 meters on a thrilling course that stretches over 2.2 kilometers.

Zipline Course

The adventure features two exciting courses:

• Rain Forest Tree Top Canopy Tour: 6 ziplines and 2 suspension bridges that cover 1 kilometer
• Ziptrek Course: 7 ziplines that stretch across 1.3 kilometers

A spectacular 120-meter suspension bridge links these courses and gives you amazing views of Mele Bay. The courses wind through lush rainforest canopy and ended up giving you breathtaking views of ocean vistas and canyon crossings.

Zipline Safety

The facility uses a continuous belay system that keeps riders safely connected throughout their adventure. Expert guides check all equipment and can provide tandem rides if you have children or need extra support. Weight restrictions are set at 120 kilograms, and you must be at least 7 years old to ride.

Zipline Booking

You can join tours twice daily from Numbawan cafe in Port Vila at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Make sure to book ahead – you’ll need at least 2 hours’ notice if you’re booking alone and 24 hours for groups. Free transfers are available from select Port Vila hotels. You can also reach the site on your own by taking Devils Point Road at Mele Bay.

Underwater Post Office

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Visitors can mail postcards from the world’s first underwater post office, which sits beneath Hideaway Island’s crystal-clear marine sanctuary waters, three meters below the surface.

Post Office Experience

The island’s gift shop sells special waterproof postcards to start this unique postal adventure. Visitors write their messages with pencils on these cards. Each postcard receives a special embossed mark instead of traditional ink stamps that would smear underwater. Colorful tropical fish swim around the post office, which sits three meters deep.

Post Office Location

You’ll find this underwater postal facility 160 feet from Hideaway Island’s shore. The trip takes a 20-minute taxi ride from Port Vila to the boarding point and a five-minute boat ride to reach the island. Hideaway Island charges an entrance fee of 17 AUD, while postcards cost 6-7 AUD with postage included.

Post Office Operations

This 20-year old facility opened its doors when Vanuatu Post launched it in May 2003. A surface flag shows when the post office is open. The core team collects mail at 3 PM daily and delivers these special messages locally and internationally. Visitors who can’t swim can use an alternative mailbox on the island. More than 100,000 people have visited this unique facility, which inspired other underwater post offices in Japan, Norway, and Malaysia.

Nambas Tribes

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The ancient traditions of two fascinating cultural groups thrive on Malekula Island. The Big Nambas and Small Nambas tribes, which get their names from their traditional male attire, represent some of Vanuatu’s most culturally rich communities.

Tribes Culture

Malekula, Vanuatu’s second-largest island, showcases remarkable cultural diversity. More than thirty distinct languages flourish here. The Big Nambas people make their home in the northern regions and are known for their complex social structures. The Small Nambas communities have established themselves in South Central Malekula. These tribes keep their ancestral practices alive through celebrations like the annual Nalawan Festival, a tribute to ancestor worship before the first harvest.

Tribes Traditions

Big Nambas chiefs maintain their historical practice of polygamy in certain areas. The tribes celebrate their heritage through several distinctive customs:

• Traditional ceremonial kava preparation
• Intricate feathered headdresses
• Pink-dyed nambas
• Ancient dance performances with black body paint

The Nalint Big Nambas tribe shares their origin stories through sacred earth-pounding cultural displays each year. Visitors can experience authentic pig-killing ceremonies and watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional mat weaving.

Tribes Tours

Mae village serves as the starting point for tours, just 15 minutes away from Norsup Airport. Chief Jean-Marc welcomes visitors every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 2 PM. The cultural program includes village tours where guests can see traditional houses and coconut plantations before reaching the dancing ground. Traditional refreshments mark the end of this authentic glimpse into tribal life.

Tanna Horse Ranch

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Bellevue Ranch sits at the core of Tanna’s equestrian culture. This remarkable establishment shows evidence of local expertise and authentic island experiences. Local Ni Vanuatu people own and run every aspect of the ranch.

Horse Riding Tours

Tom Nangam, the local “horse whisperer,” helps visitors discover pristine landscapes through carefully designed trail rides. Beautiful rainforests and countryside surround the ranch. These areas are available only through Bellevue Ranch. Tom’s sons Wayne and Kiwi speak fluent English and serve as knowledgeable guides during these rides.

Ranch Facilities

Riders find comfort in the ranch’s thoughtful amenities. They can enjoy refreshments at the welcoming bar area. The viewing deck provides breathtaking views of Port Vila harbor. Horses match each guest’s skill level, and the facility welcomes riders of all experience levels.

Ranch Activities

Riders from 6 to 60+ years enjoy the ranch’s activities. Trail experiences feature:

• Guided forest explorations
• Sunset rides overlooking the Pacific Ocean
• Cultural tours with local insights
• Customized experiences for different skill levels

Guests can choose tour packages that come with free hotel transfers. This makes the ranch easily accessible to everyone interested in this unique Vanuatu attraction. The ranch keeps its prices competitive while offering authentic horsemanship experiences. Visitors seeking genuine island adventures should not miss this opportunity.

Port Resolution

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Captain James Cook’s ship Resolution dropped anchor in August 1774 at what became one of Tanna’s most important historical sites. This beautiful bay showcases magnificent cliffs and pristine beaches that serve as the island’s premier anchorage.

Resolution Bay Activities

The bay’s northern arm features remarkable volcanic fumaroles that create a unique geological spectacle. Visitors can explore natural hot springs along the inner beach. The Iwea Port Resolution Hot Springs provides these individual-specific experiences:

• Clay face painting sessions
• Hot water cooking demonstrations at low tide
• Steam vent exploration
• Panoramic lookout points

Adult visitors pay 1,000 vatu as entrance fee, while children aged 4-12 pay 500 vatu.

Resolution Bay History

This tranquil harbor marked Tanna’s first European contact on August 5, 1774. Captain Cook’s crew spent a fortnight here and we focused on gathering supplies. They ended up departing on August 20 toward neighboring Futuna. The peaceful historical encounter took a dramatic turn when an English sentry shot a Tannese man on August 19.

Resolution Bay Access

Visitors can reach Port Resolution, located 8km from the volcano entrance, through several transport options. A truck service runs Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from Port Resolution to Lenakel for 2,000VT. Private charters are also available. The trip from Middlebush takes 2-2.5 hours each way. The bay’s white beach restaurant serves local specialties including seasonal crayfish, but requires advance bookings.

Vanuatu Parliament House

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The Chinese-aided Parliament House stands majestically in Port Vila, symbolizing Vanuatu’s experience from colonial rule to independent democracy.

Parliament Architecture

The building was completed in 1992 and combines modern and traditional Pacific design elements. A striking United in Peace statue stands at the entrance with inscriptions in French, English, and Bislama that represent the nation’s unity. The structure contains a single-chamber legislative body that was designed to accommodate 52 members who serve four-year terms.

Parliament History

Vanuatu’s 1980 constitution established the Parliament when the country gained independence from France and the United Kingdom. The government structure follows the Westminster system but uniquely incorporates French influences. The President serves 5-year terms with ceremonial powers and can’t override Parliament unless the Supreme Court finds constitutional breaches. A powerful Cabinet system manages the institution while balancing both British and French legal traditions.

Parliament Tours

Visitors can learn about the building’s significance through guided tours that feature:

• Key landmarks including the Council of Chiefs and Independence Park
• Historical exhibits highlighting the colonial period
• Cultural displays representing Vanuatu’s 113 distinct languages

Regular tours help visitors learn about Vanuatu’s political progress and cultural diversity. The tours explain unique aspects of Vanuatu’s government, including the National Council of Chiefs (Malvatumauri), which serves an advisory role under Articles 27 and 28 of the Constitution.

Erakor Island

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The crystal lagoon separates Port Vila from Erakor Island Resort & Spa, which covers 16 acres of tropical paradise and combines luxury with authentic island experiences.

Erakor Island Resort

After a complete renovation in 2012, the resort now features 23 rooms of different types. The Aqua on Erakor Overwater Restaurant opens daily at 7 AM and specializes in local seafood platters and Vanuatu eye filet steaks. The Calypso Beach Bar & Cafe adds to your dining options with fresh tropical juices and light snacks.

Erakor Island Activities

The resort’s 130-meter beach is perfect for adventure lovers and provides free water sports equipment. Guests can enjoy:

• Snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs
• Kayaking through turquoise waters
• Traditional cooking lessons
• Cultural performances with local string bands

The Chef’s Selection Romance Dinner offers intimate beachfront dining, while Thursday nights light up with the Melanesian Feast & Fire Show.

Erakor Island Transport

A free ferry runs 24 hours between the island and Port Vila’s mainland every 20 minutes. The 4-minute trip keeps the resort private yet easy to reach. Guests can get to the island with a 15-minute drive from Bauerfield International Airport and a quick ferry ride. The resort handles airport transfers and can accommodate late-night arrivals.

Comparison Table

Attraction	Location/Access	Main Features/Activities	Entry Fee	Operating Hours	Special Notes
Land Diving	Pentecost Island	Traditional vine diving ritual	10,000-12,000 vatu	Saturdays (April-June)	Ceremony lasts 2 hours
Mount Marum Volcano	Ambrym Island	Lava lake views, volcano hikes	Not mentioned	Best at dusk	Base camp trek takes 4 hours
Blue Cave	Tanna Island	Swimming, natural light displays	2,000 vatu	9:00 AM – 4:30 PM	Chamber spans 60m across
Riri Blue Hole	23km from Luganville	Swimming, canoe trips, snorkeling	500 vatu (+500 for canoe)	Not mentioned	Clear waters throughout the year
Port Vila Handicraft Market	Port Vila waterfront	Local crafts and artwork	Not mentioned	Mon-Sat	Features 50+ local vendors
Tanna Coffee Factory	Port Vila	Coffee tours and tastings	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Benefits over 1,000 village farmers
Cascades Waterfall	10-15 mins from Port Vila	Swimming, trails, photo spots	2,000 vatu (adult)	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM	Drops 35 meters
Vanuatu National Museum	Port Vila	Cultural displays, sand art shows	1,000-1,500 vatu	Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM, Sat 8AM-12PM	Showcases 3,000+ years of heritage
Iririki Island	3-min ferry from Port Vila	Resort amenities, beach activities	Not mentioned	24-hour ferry service	Spans 69 private acres
Gaspard Bay	Lamap Point	Dugong spotting, snorkeling	2,200 VT	Tied to high tide schedule	Houses 10-20 dugongs
Ambrym Volcano	Ambrym Island	Volcano treks, local customs	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Two active volcanic peaks
Eton Beach	20km from Port Vila	Beach activities, snorkeling	500 VT	Best during high tide	Stretches 2km along coast
Summit Gardens	200m above sea level	Plant collections, spirit making tours	Not mentioned	8 AM – 6 PM	South Pacific’s biggest tropical garden
Moso Island	40-min drive + 15-min boat from Port Vila	Reef exploring, turtle sanctuary	2,000 vatu	10 AM – 5 PM	Home to eco-friendly stays
Lonnoc Beach	45km from Luganville	Water sports, beach activities	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Features sea-based freshwater spring
Vanuatu Jungle Zipline	Mele Bay	Adventure course, aerial bridges	Not mentioned	9:00 AM and 1:00 PM daily	Longest Pacific zipline (2.2km)
Underwater Post Office	Hideaway Island	Submerged mail service	17 AUD (island entry) + 6-7 AUD (postcards)	Daily pickup at 3 PM	First underwater postal facility
Nambas Tribes	Malekula Island	Traditional shows and rituals	Not mentioned	Tours Tue/Thu/Sat at 2 PM	Home to two tribal groups
Tanna Horse Ranch	Bellevue Ranch	Horse rides, cultural visits	Not mentioned	Not mentioned	Family-run local business
Port Resolution	8km from volcano entrance	Thermal springs, historic area	1,000 vatu	Not mentioned	European contact point
Vanuatu Parliament House	Port Vila	Building tours, cultural exhibits	Not mentioned	Regular tours available	Constructed in 1992
Erakor Island	4-min ferry from Port Vila	Resort facilities, water activities	Not mentioned	24-hour ferry service	16-acre island paradise

Conclusion

We found Vanuatu is nowhere near your typical Pacific island destination after visiting these 23 amazing attractions. Each place has its own unique story. You can watch the ancient ritual of land diving on Pentecost Island and send mail from the world’s first underwater post office.

Raw beauty of Vanuatu shows in its natural wonders. Active volcanoes like Mount Marum and Ambrym display their fierce power. The pristine Blue Cave and Riri Blue Hole provide peaceful retreats. The Nambas tribes and their traditional ceremonies show authentic cultural experiences that have shaped island life through generations.

Vanuatu’s appeal comes from how easy it is to explore everything. Each attraction welcomes visitors with good facilities and well-planned tours. You can seek thrills at the Jungle Zipline or unwind at Erakor Island Resort. Local communities make every experience special, from coffee tastings at Tanna Factory to walks through Summit Gardens.

These 23 attractions show Vanuatu at its best – a place where old traditions live on with modern comforts, and nature stays pure and untouched. Bring your adventurous spirit and get ready for experiences that will stick with you long after your trip is done.