Introduction

Did you know that choosing the right month to visit Vanuatu could save you up to 40% on your total vacation costs? While many travelers flock to this South Pacific paradise during peak season, savvy adventurers know that timing is everything when planning a tropical getaway. Finding the best time to travel to Vanuatu involves balancing ideal weather conditions, budget considerations, and your personal travel preferences. As someone who’s explored this archipelago’s 83 islands across different seasons, I’ve discovered that Vanuatu reveals different treasures depending on when you visit. This comprehensive vanuatu travel weather guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip without breaking the bank.

Essential Travel Checklist

Before diving into seasonal details, let’s ensure you’re properly equipped for your Vanuatu adventure:

Documents:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Return/onward ticket (required for entry)
• Visa arrangements (many countries receive 30-day visa-free entry)
• Travel insurance with medical coverage and evacuation (essential for remote islands)
• Digital and physical copies of all documents

Clothing & Gear:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (temperatures typically range 20-30°C/68-86°F)
• Rain jacket or poncho (essential year-round)
• Swimwear and rash guard (for sun protection)
• Sturdy walking shoes for jungle trails and volcanic terrain
• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
• Insect repellent with at least 20% DEET
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Snorkeling gear (although rentals are available, bringing your own mask ensures proper fit)
• Dry bag for boat excursions and water activities
• Modest clothing for village visits (shoulders and knees covered)

Tech & Utilities:

• Universal power adapter (Vanuatu uses Australian-style plugs)
• Portable power bank (essential for outer islands with limited electricity)
• Waterproof phone case
• Offline maps (download Google Maps for Efate and other islands)
• Vanuatu Travel Safe App (for emergency alerts and travel advisories)

Health Essentials:

• Personal medications (with prescriptions)
• Basic first-aid kit with coral cut treatment
• Motion sickness remedies (for island-hopping boat trips)
• Rehydration salts
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

Best Time to Visit

Vanuatu’s tropical climate creates distinct travel seasons, each offering unique advantages for budget-conscious travelers:

April-June (Shoulder Season) – BEST VALUE
This period represents my top recommendation for budget travelers seeking balanced experiences. You’ll enjoy:

• 25-30% lower accommodation rates compared to peak season
• Mild temperatures averaging 24-27°C (75-81°F)
• Gradually decreasing rainfall (April still sees occasional showers)
• Lush landscapes following the wet season
• Smaller crowds at popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon
• Excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling (25-30 meters)
• Pleasant evenings around 18-21°C (64-70°F)

July-September (Dry Season) – PEAK SEASON
While this is the most expensive time to visit, it offers optimal weather conditions:

• Lowest rainfall (just 4-8 rainy days per month)
• Pleasant temperatures between 22-26°C (72-79°F)
• Ideal conditions for outdoor activities
• Highest tourist numbers, especially in August
• Premium pricing (expect to pay 15-40% more for accommodations)
• Advance bookings essential for popular resorts
• Excellent diving conditions with visibility often exceeding 30 meters
• Special events like Nagol Land Diving on Pentecost Island (April-June only)

October-November (Shoulder Season) – HIDDEN GEM
This often-overlooked period offers excellent value:

• Gradually warming temperatures (25-28°C/77-82°F)
• Increasing humidity but still manageable
• Accommodation prices drop by 20-35%
• Tourist numbers decline significantly
• Lush scenery without peak-season crowds
• Occasional afternoon showers (typically brief)
• Many restaurants and tours offer end-of-season discounts
• Water temperature around 26°C (79°F), perfect for extended water activities

December-March (Wet Season) – BUDGET BARGAIN
For the most budget-conscious travelers willing to embrace occasional rain:

• Lowest accommodation rates (up to 45% off peak pricing)
• Hottest temperatures (28-31°C/82-88°F)
• Highest humidity (can reach 85-90%)
• Daily rainfall, typically in short, intense bursts
• Lush, vibrant landscapes and abundant tropical fruits
• Cyclone risk (January-February particularly)
• Fewer tourists and more authentic local experiences
• Some smaller operations may close during this period
• Special opportunity to witness the spectacular cascades at Mele Falls at maximum flow

My Personal Recommendation: May-June offers the sweet spot of good weather, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds. October also presents excellent value before the wet season arrives.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving in Port Vila (Efate Island)

Start your Vanuatu adventure with an efficient first day that balances recovery from travel with gentle immersion:

Morning:

• Arrive at Bauerfield International Airport
• Transfer to accommodation (20-30 minutes depending on location)
• Check-in and refresh (tip: request an early check-in when booking)
• Light breakfast at Nambawan Café (budget-friendly with excellent harbor views)

Afternoon:

• Explore Port Vila Market (open 24 hours except Sunday; best before 2pm)
• Sample fresh tropical fruits for 100-200 vatu ($0.85-$1.70)
• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Moorings Restaurant (daily specials around 1,200 vatu/$10)
• Take a gentle stroll along the waterfront promenade

Evening:

• Watch the sunset from Rossi Restaurant (happy hour from 5-6pm offers 50% off selected drinks)
• Try local Vanuatu beef with a Tusker beer (the national lager)
• Early night to recover from travel and prepare for adventures ahead

Budget tip: Exchange some money at the airport (enough for 2-3 days) then use the downtown ANZ or BSP banks for better rates on larger amounts.

Day 2: Efate Island Tour

Morning:

• Breakfast at your accommodation or try Jill’s Café for authentic pastries
• Join a half-day “Round Island Tour” (cheaper than full-day at 4,500 vatu/$38)
• Visit Eton Blue Hole (entrance fee: 500 vatu/$4.25)
• Explore Pangpang village and learn about traditional mat weaving

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Hideaway Island Resort (accessible via short boat trip)
• Snorkel at the famous underwater post office (equipment rental: 500 vatu)
• Send a waterproof postcard from beneath the waves (1,400 vatu/$12)
• Relax on the white sand beach (avoid Sundays when local crowds arrive)

Evening:

• Return to Port Vila
• Dinner at Mumma’s Kitchen for authentic local cuisine (mains 900-1,500 vatu)
• Try lap lap, Vanuatu’s national dish (best value traditional meal)

Budget tip: Many tour companies offer similar itineraries with significant price differences. EasyDay Tours consistently provides excellent value while supporting local guides.

Day 3: Mele Cascades & Cultural Experience

Morning:

• Early breakfast at your accommodation
• Visit Mele Cascades before 9am to avoid crowds (entrance fee: 2,000 vatu/$17)
• Hike to the upper pools (wear water shoes or sturdy sandals)
• Swim in the natural pools beneath cascading falls

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Tanna Coffee Factory (try their plantation sandwich: 850 vatu)
• Visit the Vanuatu Cultural Centre (500 vatu entrance)
• Attend a cultural demonstration if available (usually at 2pm)
• Browse the handicraft market for souvenirs (negotiable prices)

Evening:

• Attend Eratap Beach Fire Show (3,500 vatu including dinner and transfers)
• Experience traditional dancing and fire performances
• Enjoy a buffet featuring local specialties

Budget tip: Combine your Mele Cascades visit with nearby Secret Garden botanical tour for a combined ticket price of 3,000 vatu instead of 4,000 vatu separately.

Day 4: Tanna Island Volcano Adventure

Morning:

• Early domestic flight to Tanna Island (book at least 3 months ahead for best rates)
• Transfer to accommodation near Mount Yasur
• Check in and quick orientation

Afternoon:

• Light lunch at your accommodation
• Visit local Kastom Village (1,500 vatu donation recommended)
• Learn about traditional island life and ceremonies
• Prepare for volcano tour (warm layer recommended despite tropical climate)

Evening:

• Mount Yasur Volcano tour (15,000 vatu/$127 including park fees)
• Witness spectacular lava eruptions at sunset
• Return to accommodation for dinner
• Experience authentic island cuisine

Budget tip: Traveling to Tanna during shoulder season (May-June or October) can save up to 30% on accommodation while volcano activity remains excellent year-round.

Day 5: Santo Island Blue Holes

Morning:

• Domestic flight to Espiritu Santo (ideally booked as part of a multi-island flight pass)
• Transfer to Luganville accommodation
• Quick orientation and equipment preparation

Afternoon:

• Join Blue Hole tour (6,500 vatu/$55)
• Visit Matevulu Blue Hole (entrance fee included)
• Optional stop at Nanda Blue Hole (additional 1,000 vatu)
• Fresh tropical fruit refreshment included

Evening:

• Dinner at Island Restaurant (try their Santo beef: 1,800 vatu)
• Browse local shops in Luganville
• Early night to prepare for tomorrow’s adventure

Budget tip: Rent bicycles (1,500 vatu/$13 daily) to explore blue holes independently instead of taking organized tours, potentially saving 4,000 vatu per person.

Budget Breakdown

Understanding Vanuatu’s seasonal pricing variations is crucial for budget planning. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of costs by season:

Accommodation (per night)

Budget Options:

• Peak season (Jul-Sep): 8,000-12,000 vatu ($68-102)
• Shoulder season (Apr-Jun, Oct-Nov): 6,000-9,000 vatu ($51-77)
• Off-season (Dec-Mar): 4,500-7,000 vatu ($38-60)

Mid-range Options:

• Peak season: 15,000-25,000 vatu ($127-212)
• Shoulder season: 12,000-18,000 vatu ($102-153)
• Off-season: 8,000-15,000 vatu ($68-127)

Luxury Options:

• Peak season: 30,000+ vatu ($255+)
• Shoulder season: 22,000-28,000 vatu ($187-238)
• Off-season: 18,000-25,000 vatu ($153-212)

Food (daily expenses)

Budget Eating:

• Breakfast: Market fruit + pastry: 400-600 vatu ($3.40-5.10)
• Lunch: Food court/takeaway: 800-1,200 vatu ($6.80-10.20)
• Dinner: Local restaurant: 1,200-1,800 vatu ($10.20-15.30)
• Total daily: 2,400-3,600 vatu ($20.40-30.60)

Mid-range Eating:

• Breakfast: Café meal: 1,000-1,500 vatu ($8.50-12.75)
• Lunch: Restaurant meal: 1,500-2,500 vatu ($12.75-21.25)
• Dinner: Restaurant with drinks: 2,500-4,000 vatu ($21.25-34)
• Total daily: 5,000-8,000 vatu ($42.50-68)

Self-catering option: Renting accommodation with kitchen facilities and shopping at Port Vila market can reduce food costs by approximately 40%.

Activities (per person)

Essential Experiences:

• Mount Yasur Volcano tour: 15,000 vatu ($127)
• Blue Hole visit: 1,000-2,000 vatu entrance fee ($8.50-17)
• Round Island Tour: 6,000-9,000 vatu ($51-77)
• Snorkeling trip: 4,000-7,000 vatu ($34-60)
• Cultural village visit: 2,000-3,000 vatu ($17-25.50)

Off-season discounts: Many operators offer 15-30% discounts during December-March to attract visitors during the wet season.

Transportation

International Flights:

• Peak season: $700-1,100 USD (from Australia/New Zealand)
• Shoulder season: $550-850 USD
• Off-season: $450-650 USD

Inter-island Flights:

• Port Vila to Tanna: 24,000-32,000 vatu ($204-272)
• Port Vila to Santo: 28,000-38,000 vatu ($238-323)
• Savings of 15-25% possible in off-season

Local Transportation:

• Airport transfers: 1,500-3,000 vatu ($13-25.50)
• Shared minibus in Port Vila: 150 vatu ($1.30) per trip
• Taxi in Port Vila: 1,500-2,500 vatu ($13-21.25) for typical trips
• Car rental: 6,000-9,000 vatu ($51-77) daily

Money-saving tip: Air Vanuatu occasionally offers “Vanuatu Island Hopper Passes” that can reduce domestic flight costs by up to 25% when booking multiple segments.

Total 7-Day Budget (per person)

Budget Traveler:

• Peak season: 120,000-150,000 vatu ($1,020-1,275)
• Shoulder season: 95,000-120,000 vatu ($808-1,020)
• Off-season: 75,000-95,000 vatu ($638-808)

Mid-range Traveler:

• Peak season: 200,000-250,000 vatu ($1,700-2,125)
• Shoulder season: 160,000-200,000 vatu ($1,360-1,700)
• Off-season: 130,000-160,000 vatu ($1,105-1,360)

Luxury Traveler:

• Peak season: 350,000+ vatu ($2,975+)
• Shoulder season: 280,000-350,000 vatu ($2,380-2,975)
• Off-season: 220,000-280,000 vatu ($1,870-2,380)

These figures demonstrate that traveling during shoulder or off-season can save 20-40% on total trip costs, with May-June offering the best balance of value and experience.

Alternative Routes or Destinations

If your schedule allows flexibility or you’re looking for less-traveled alternatives, consider these options:

Alternative Islands

Ambae Island (Budget-friendly alternative to Tanna)

• Volcanic landscapes without the high fees of Mount Yasur
• Authentic village experiences with fewer tourists
• Limited infrastructure but significantly lower costs
• Best during dry season (May-October) due to basic roads

Ambrym Island (Cultural alternative)

• Famous for rom dance ceremonies and sand drawings
• Active twin volcanoes with less crowded hiking options
• 30-40% cheaper than main tourist islands
• Traditional bungalows from 3,000 vatu ($25.50) nightly

Malekula Island (Off-the-beaten-path choice)

• Rich cultural heritage with Small and Big Nambas tribes
• Minimal tourism infrastructure means authentic experiences
• Accommodation from 4,000 vatu ($34) in family-run guesthouses
• Best during July-September when paths are drier

Alternative Itineraries

Cultural Focus Route (10 Days)

• Port Vila (2 days)
• Tanna Kastom villages (3 days)
• Malekula tribal areas (3 days)
• Santo cultural sites (2 days)
• Estimated savings compared to standard tourist route: 15-20%

Diving Enthusiast Route (8 Days)

• Port Vila orientation (1 day)
• Santo wreck diving at SS President Coolidge (4 days)
• Hideaway Island marine sanctuary (3 days)
• Best value: April-May or October-November when visibility remains excellent but prices drop by 25%

Island-Hopping Budget Route (12 Days)

• Port Vila (2 days)
• Epi Island (3 days)
• Pentecost Island (2 days)
• Ambae Island (2 days)
• Santo (3 days)
• Potential savings: 30-40% compared to standard tourist circuit

Practical tip: For maximum flexibility with minimal costs, consider spending more time on fewer islands. Transportation between islands often constitutes a significant portion of your budget.

Local Tips & Hidden Gems

After multiple visits across different seasons, I’ve collected these insider recommendations to enhance your Vanuatu experience:

Authentic Eateries

Port Vila:

• Mama’s Kitchen – Located behind the main market, this local eatery serves authentic lap lap (traditional dish) for just 500 vatu ($4.25), about 70% cheaper than tourist restaurants
• Seafront Fish & Chips – Thursday special offers two pieces of fresh fish with chips for 900 vatu ($7.65)
• Island Time Food Truck – Parked near Stevie’s at the Wharf Thursday-Saturday evenings, offering delicious kokoda (local ceviche) for 600 vatu ($5.10)

Tanna:

• Tanna Coffee Shop – Located near the airport, offers freshly roasted Tanna coffee and homemade cakes for half the price of Port Vila cafes
• Sunset Bungalow’s Kitchen – Pre-order their traditional earth oven meal (1,500 vatu/$12.75) for an authentic feast

Santo:

• Luganville Market Food Section – Try the tuluk (steamed pudding wrapped in leaves) for just 200 vatu ($1.70)
• Santo Organic Café – Hidden on a side street near the main wharf, offers organic smoothie bowls using local ingredients for 800 vatu ($6.80)

Secret Spots

Hidden Beaches:

• Lonnoc Beach (Santo) – Pristine white sand with excellent snorkeling, minimal entrance fee of 500 vatu ($4.25)
• Angels Beach (Efate) – Accessible via rough road or boat, offers excellent snorkeling without crowds
• Pele Island – Day trip from Efate (3,000 vatu/$25.50) with spectacular beaches and minimal development

Viewpoints:

• Bellevue Lookout (Port Vila) – Free alternative to paid viewpoints, accessible via rough track behind Michoutouchkine Foundation
• Mount Hope (Santo) – 2-hour hike with panoramic views of Luganville and surrounding islands, no entrance fee

Cultural Experiences:

• Ekasup Cultural Village – Visit on Wednesdays for their community day when entrance fees are reduced by 50%
• Malampa Women’s Handicraft Centre (Malekula) – Direct purchases support local artisans with prices 30-40% lower than Port Vila shops
• Pentecost Island – If visiting during land diving season (April-June), arrange through local contacts rather than expensive tour packages to save 30-45%

Money-Saving Tips

• Water refills: Many cafes in Port Vila will refill water bottles for 100 vatu ($0.85), saving money and reducing plastic waste
• Happy hour deals: Waterfront Bar offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 5-6pm daily
• Multi-activity discounts: Evergreen Tours offers 15% discount when booking three or more activities
• Local SIM card: Digicel tourist SIM (1,000 vatu/$8.50) provides better value than international roaming
• Market shopping: Port Vila Market offers fresh produce at 30-50% less than supermarkets
• Shared transport: Arrange shared airport transfers with other travelers to split the 3,000 vatu ($25.50) taxi fare

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Based on both personal experience and feedback from hundreds of travelers, these are the most costly and common mistakes when visiting Vanuatu:

Financial Missteps

1. Exchanging money at hotels: Hotel exchange rates typically offer 15-20% less value than banks or authorized money changers. Always use ANZ or BSP banks in Port Vila for best rates.

   
   

2. Paying by credit card everywhere: Many establishments charge 3-5% fee for credit card payments. Withdraw sufficient cash for small purchases.

   
   

3. Not negotiating activity prices: Unlike some countries, moderate haggling is acceptable for tours and activities in Vanuatu. Politely asking “Is this your best price?” can often secure 10-15% discounts.

   
   

4. Booking domestic flights last-minute: Domestic flights can double in price within the final two weeks. Book at least 30 days ahead for best rates.

   
   

5. Over-tipping: While appreciated, tipping is not expected in Vanuatu. A 5-10% tip for exceptional service is generous rather than the 15-20% common in other destinations.

   
   

Practical Misunderstandings

1. Underestimating “island time”: Services often run 15-30 minutes behind schedule. Build buffer time into important connections and maintain a flexible attitude.

   
   

2. Visiting during cyclone season unprepared: If traveling December-March, purchase comprehensive travel insurance and maintain flexibility in your itinerary for weather disruptions.

   
   

3. Expecting consistent WiFi/electricity: Outside Port Vila, connectivity and power can be intermittent. Download offline maps, carry power banks, and embrace the digital detox.

   
   

4. Dressing inappropriately for village visits: Modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is expected when visiting traditional villages. Packing appropriate clothing prevents awkward situations.

   
   

5. Assuming all attractions are open daily: Many sites close on Sundays due to religious observance. Museums and some activities also close during cruise ship days to accommodate large groups.

   
   

Cultural Faux Pas

1. Taking photos without permission: Always ask before photographing local people or ceremonies. Some places may request a small fee (300-500 vatu).

   
   

2. Rushing greetings: Local custom values proper greetings before business. Take time for pleasantries before making requests or starting negotiations.

   
   

3. Ignoring village protocols: When visiting traditional villages, wait for your guide to introduce you to the chief or representative. Small gifts of kava or food supplies are appreciated.

   
   

4. Wearing revealing clothing in villages: While acceptable at resorts, revealing attire can offend local sensibilities in traditional communities. Pack a sarong for quick coverage.

   
   

5. Expecting Western-style customer service: Direct complaints are considered impolite in Vanuatu culture. Frame concerns as questions or gentle suggestions for better outcomes.

   
   

Safety & Packing Tips

Safety Considerations

Health Precautions:

• Drink bottled or purified water (especially outside Port Vila)
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen regularly (UV index frequently reaches 11+)
• Use insect repellent containing DEET, particularly at dawn and dusk
• Consider antimalarial medication for extended outer island stays
• Pack oral rehydration salts for potential stomach issues

Personal Safety:

• Port Vila and major tourist areas are generally safe, but:
• Avoid displaying expensive items, particularly in markets
• Use hotel safes for passports and valuables
• Exercise caution when walking after dark in Port Vila
• Register with your country’s embassy or consulate

Environmental Hazards:

• Check tide times before coastal walks (some paths flood at high tide)
• Wear appropriate footwear on coral beaches and when swimming (coral cuts easily become infected)
• Research cyclone protocols if visiting December-March
• Respect warning signs at beaches regarding currents and marine hazards
• Monitor Vanuatu Meteorology Department updates during wet season

Packing Optimization

Space-Saving Techniques:

• Roll clothes rather than folding to maximize space and minimize wrinkles
• Use packing cubes to compartmentalize and compress clothing
• Pack clothes that can be layered rather than bulky items
• Limit shoes to three pairs maximum (water shoes, comfortable walking shoes, and casual sandals)
• Consider quick-dry fabrics that can be washed and dried overnight

Climate-Smart Choices:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, technical quick-dry)
• UPF-rated clothing to reduce sunburn risk
• Packable rain jacket rather than umbrella (handles tropical downpours better)
• Bandana or buff (multipurpose for sun protection, dust, impromptu face covering)
• Light sweater or jacket for evenings, especially June-August when temperatures can drop to 18°C (64°F)

Expert Packing Tips:

• Pack essential medications in carry-on luggage
• Bring ziplock bags of various sizes for protecting electronics and storing wet items
• Include a microfiber towel for beach visits and day trips
• Pack a reusable water bottle with built-in filter
• Consider a packable daypack for excursions

Conclusion

The best time to travel to Vanuatu truly depends on your priorities. For the budget-conscious traveler seeking the optimal balance of weather, prices, and experiences, the shoulder seasons of May-June and October-November offer exceptional value with potential savings of 20-40% compared to peak season.

The wet season (December-March) provides the absolute lowest prices but requires flexibility and weather resilience. Meanwhile, the dry season (July-September) guarantees perfect weather but at premium prices. By planning your visit during the transitional months and applying the budget strategies outlined in this guide, you can experience the paradise of Vanuatu without financial strain.

Remember that Vanuatu’s magic lies not just in its spectacular landscapes but in its rich cultural heritage and the warmth of its people—experiences available year-round regardless of weather or budget. Whether you’re swimming in the crystal waters of a blue hole, witnessing the fiery spectacle of Mount Yasur, or sharing stories with villagers, Vanuatu offers unforgettable moments in every season.

As you plan your journey, consider your personal preferences for weather, budget, and activities, then align them with the seasonal breakdown provided in this guide. Your perfect Vanuatu adventure awaits!

FAQs

Q: Is Vanuatu expensive to visit compared to other Pacific destinations?

A: Vanuatu sits in the mid-range for Pacific destinations. It’s generally more affordable than French Polynesia or New Caledonia but more expensive than Fiji or Samoa. By visiting during shoulder season (May-June or October-November), utilizing local transportation, and eating where locals eat, you can enjoy Vanuatu on a moderate budget of around $100-120 USD daily.

Q: How much time should I allow for a Vanuatu vacation?

A: For a satisfying experience, allow at least 7-10 days. This gives you time to visit 2-3 islands without rushing. Port Vila (Efate) deserves 2-3 days, while Tanna and Santo merit 3 days each if you want to explore their highlights. Adding more remote islands requires additional time due to less frequent transportation connections.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Vanuatu?

A: Many nationalities (including Australia, New Zealand, EU countries, USA, Canada, and UK) receive 30-day visitor permits upon arrival. You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay and proof of onward travel. Always check the latest requirements through your country’s foreign affairs department or the Vanuatu Immigration Department website.

Q: Is it worth visiting Vanuatu during the wet season?

A: For budget travelers with flexibility, absolutely. December-March offers discounts of 30-45% on accommodation and many activities. While you’ll experience daily rainfall (typically short, intense bursts rather than all-day downpours), you’ll also enjoy lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and more authentic interactions. The main considerations are potential tropical cyclones (particularly January-February) and occasional activity cancellations due to weather.

Q: What’s the best way to get around Vanuatu?

A: Between islands, Air Vanuatu provides the most time-efficient transportation, though flights can be expensive ($150-300 between major islands). For budget travelers, cargo ships offer slower but much cheaper alternatives to outer islands. On Efate, public minibuses are economical (150 vatu per trip), while on outer islands, shared taxis or pre-arranged transportation through your accommodation are typically most cost-effective.

Q: Is Vanuatu suitable for families with children?

A: Vanuatu is excellent for family travel, particularly during the dry season (July-September) when weather is most predictable. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs and family-friendly activities. The shoulder seasons (April-June and October-November) offer better value while still providing good weather conditions. Consider staying primarily on Efate and Santo with children under 10, as these islands have better medical facilities and more comfortable accommodation options.

Q: How’s the internet and mobile connectivity in Vanuatu?

A: In Port Vila and Luganville, connectivity is generally reliable though not particularly fast. On outer islands, service becomes increasingly limited. A Digicel tourist SIM (1,000 vatu) provides the best coverage throughout the archipelago. Many accommodations offer WiFi, but speeds rarely exceed 5-10 Mbps even in high-end properties. Consider Vanuatu an opportunity for a partial digital detox, particularly when visiting remote areas.