VA N U AT U
VA N U AT U T R AV E L G U I D E
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A N U AT U Wild, untouched natural beauty meets unparalleled marine experiences and a relaxed pace of living in Vanuatu – the epitome of barefoot luxury WRITER: LILY SAWYER | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
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rare hidden gem in the South Pacific Ocean fringed by the Coral Sea, Vanuatu is a captivating archipelago made up of 83 unique islands, where nature remains unaltered and the people feel like family. The capital, Port Vila, enjoys plentiful activities, whilst nearby private island resorts such as Kwakéa and Ratua offer an escape from the ordinary and an opportunity to define your own rhythm. Beyond luxury resorts, the vibrant appeal of local island life and abundance of outdoor adventures call to adrenaline junkies and culture seekers alike. From Port Vila, it’s a short flight to Tanna Island where you can hike to the rim of the world’s most accessible volcano, Mount Yasur, at sunset. When you reach the top, watch the magnificent spectacle of glowing lava as it lights up the night sky – a truly unforgettable moment. Or perhaps take a trip to the Blue Cave, where you can swim or snorkel through a short underwater opening to enter a massive, cathedral-like cavern. Once inside, the
collapsed cave roof lets a dramatic, luminous spotlight of midday sunshine pour into the turquoise pool below. Also close to Port Vila, Efate Island offers countless opportunities for snorkelling such as Hideaway Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary (Hideaway Island), famous for housing the world’s only underwater postbox which is accessible via shore snorkelling. Alternatively, many travellers spend their time on the island hiking to nearby waterfalls. For world-class diving, fly north to Espiritu Santo. Here, you can discover Nanda Blue Hole – a natural, clear bluewater pool – ride horses through the jungle and stay in local beach huts. Elsewhere, there are great underwater opportunities off the coast of Lelepa Island, which can be visited on a day trip from Port Vila, or perhaps embark on a dive trip from Hideaway Island. Combine all these things with friendly locals, delicious food, island relaxation, and endless adventure as you embark on the trip of a lifetime in Vanuatu.
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In Focus
Moso Island Moso Island is a hidden paradise that partly forms Vanuatu’s stunning Havannah Harbour, just a short boat ride from the busy capital of Port Vila. TH I S BEAUTIFUL ECO-ES CAPE is an ideal destination for travellers who seek rare marine life, untouched nature, and true ocean adventure. The island is most well-known for its volunteer-run Tranquility Island Eco Dive Resort, situated on the southeast side of Moso Island. With baby sea turtles in the area facing many dangers, very few live beyond their first year. The resort helps to address this by raising young turtles from eggs, giving them a higher survival rate. Visitors can tour the sanctuary to learn about ocean care and even sponsor a turtle, contributing to conservation of the species. It also offers a quiet, off-the-grid accommodation option for those looking to explore the island’s incredible marine
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life, providing direct access to 18 extensive dive sites. Beyond the sanctuary, the turquoise water lapping Moso Island’s sandy shores is a dream for swimmers and divers. You can discover colourful coral gardens, explore deep underwater caves, or visit a sunken shipwreck – an ideal opportunity to encounter a kaleidoscope of life underwater. Indeed, those who snorkel or scuba dive in the crystalclear waters of the harbour will often find themselves swimming alongside giant, wild sea turtles. Whether you want to learn about local conservation efforts, dive into deep blue waters, or simply relax on a quiet beach, Moso Island offers an unforgettable glimpse of the natural beauty of the South Pacific – a magical experience you’ll never forget.
Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu: Where Comfort Meets Culture Set against the stunning backdrop of Port Vila’s pristine waters, Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu offers an experience that goes beyond a traditional getaway—inviting guests to connect with the destination, its culture, and its people. We proudly position ourselves as one of Vanuatu’s leading family-friendly resorts. Our Kids Club provides a safe, engaging environment for young guests, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their holiday with peace of mind. It is this balance of family connection and personal time that makes every stay truly memorable. From the moment guests enter the lobby, which is thoughtfully designed to resemble a traditional fare, they are immersed in the spirit of Vanuatu. This communal heart of the resort fosters connection and provides a genuine sense of place, further enhanced by weekly culinary celebrations such as Melanesian Nights featuring traditional dance, lively Spice Nights with fire shows, and poolside Wok & Grill events. The resort is deeply committed to sustainability and the preservation of Vanuatu’s natural beauty. Through initiatives like energy-efficient LED lighting, watersaving aerated shower systems, and rainwater harvesting, the resort operates responsibly to protect the environment for future generations. For business travellers, the resort offers excepional convenience. Located just minutes from the airport, the University of the South Pacific, and Port Vila’s city centre, it provides a seamless hub for work. With recently refreshed meeting rooms and plans for new event spaces, it caters effectively to corporate needs. Those seeking recreation can enjoy the central pool, a newly equipped gym, and refreshed tennis and pickleball courts. Beyond its facilities, Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu is a proud partner of the local community. Through ongoing support for vocational institutions and schools, the resort helps empower the next generation, offering guests a deeper, meaningful connection to the country. This commitment, paired with curated off-site excursions, ensures that every guest enjoys an authentic and enriching island experience. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests are invited to experience a stay that is truly unforgettable.
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RECOMMENDS Eat: FOR A N OPE N-A I R S T E A K HOU S E … Stonegrill Restaurant in Port Vila is a relaxed open-air steakhouse that enjoys stunning views over the harbour, making for a great sunset spot. The restaurant is known for its juicy, high-quality Vanuatu beef and fresh fish, all cooked on a hot volcanic stone plate brought directly to your table. Informal and delicious, Stonegrill Restaurant benefits from some of the friendliest and most attentive staff in the area, whilst generous portion sizes see patrons return time and again. FOR H A N D - C R A F T E D C HO C OL AT E … Dedicated to overseeing the journey of local chocolate from bean to bar, Aelan Chocolate Makers’ knowledge of Vanuatuan cocoa is unparalleled. With aelan meaning ‘island’ in native Bislama, the company was born from a passion for artisanal chocolate-making, cultivating hand-farmed cocoa grown in dark volcanic soil which gives the chocolate a distinct, rich flavour. Visitors can indulge themselves in a tour of the Alean Chocolate factory or stop by the handicraft shop where delicious products can be sampled and purchased.
Do: FOR A N E XQU I S I T E E QU I N E E X PE R I E NC E … Santo Horse Adventures on the east coast of Espiritu Santo invites visitors to ride calm rescue horses through tropical jungle, hidden rivers, and mangrovefringed shores. The relaxed, intimate vibe and highly ethical environment curated by the company mean Santo Horse Adventures comes highly recommended, with the majority of the session’s cost directly contributing to the rehabilitation and care of the horses. Providing options to suit both complete beginners and experienced riders, this is an opportunity not to be missed. 6 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
FOR A S C E N IC , F R E S H WAT E R E S CA PE … Eden on the River is a scenic, family-friendly eco-park located on Vanuatu’s Efate Island, just a 30 to 40-minute drive from Port Vila. Set amidst dense tropical gardens and rainforests, this destination has a real-life jungle feel, featuring a clear freshwater river flowing through the centre which includes swimming holes, natural rockslides, and miniature waterfall cascades. Eden Café and shaded picnic areas offer prime spots for relaxation, whilst an 18-hole tropical mini-golf course is sure to keep the whole family entertained. FOR A C ON V E N I E N T I N T E R -PAC I F IC C ON N E C T ION… Air Niugini
Sleep: FOR A FA M I LY-F R I E N DLY R E S OR T… Holiday Inn Resort is a place where experiences are created and memories made. The family-friendly hotel is set on the peaceful shores of Erakor Lagoon, surrounded by tall palm trees and well-kept gardens. Featuring 138 Melanesian-inspired rooms, an on-site spa, two outdoor swimming pools, a tennis court, and a 9-hole golf course, the hotel is not short on deluxe amenities. Open-air dining options and a poolside bar also create a relaxed yet luxurious ambience. FOR A C L I F F S I DE R E T R E AT… Rockwater Resort is sustainably focused, offering unique rooms cut into the face of Tanna Island’s volcanic cliffs overlooking Ipak Bay. For those seeking a place to call home on this aweinspiring island – where you can stand on the edge of an erupting volcano, snorkel in a private marine sanctuary, and feast your eyes on the world’s third-biggest tree – Rockwater Resort is for you. Designed to prioritise guests’ personal space, the property provides the ultimate atmosphere for privacy, relaxation, and wellness.
VA N U AT U T R AV E L G U I D E
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Landmark Attractions Blue Cave This breathtaking natural wonder on Tanna Island can be reached by a scenic boat ride, allowing those who visit to swim through an opening into a hidden volcanic chamber at low tide. Inside, a natural skylight lets the afternoon sun pierce through – an unforgettable, magical spot for snorkelling and exploring.
Havannah Harbour Discover the azure protected waters of Havannah Harbour – a true paradise for underwater explorers. Slip beneath the surface to marvel at vibrantly coloured giant clams resting peacefully on the shallow sea floor. Surrounded by thriving coral gardens, playful tropical fish, and occasional sea turtles, this pristine marine haven offers an unforgettable adventure just outside Port Vila. PHOTOGRAPHY © PAR JEAN VAN JEAN, CC BY 3.0
Mele Cascades This stunning natural attraction on Efate Island is located just 10 minutes from Port Vila. Embarking on a lush tropical hike, travellers can see a series of crystal-clear limestone rock pools leading up to a dramatic 35-metre waterfall. Climb the cascading water using installed guide ropes, swim in turquoise plunge pools, and experience an unforgettable tropical rainforest adventure.
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Getting There and Around I NTERNATIONAL AIR TRAV E L to Vanuatu is straightforward, with direct flight connections available from nearby countries – including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, New Caledonia, and the Solomon Islands – to Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, the island’s central commercial airport.
In addition, Air Niugini serves as a vital bridge between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, operating a weekly multi-stop passenger flight and private charter services. Once your plane lands in the capital, exploring this incredible archipelago is a true adventure, and travelling between the distinct islands by air is all part of the journey. Indeed, Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) located in Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo and White Grass Airport (TAE) on Tanna Island both accommodate regular scheduled domestic flights run by local airline Air Vanuatu. For those seeking a slower pace or a more budget-friendly journey, inter-island cargo boats or passenger ferries are an accessible alternative. On Vanuatu’s main islands like Efate and Espiritu Santo, getting around is easy due to small shared public minibuses, which always have a large letter ‘B’ on their licence plates indicating their public transport status. Just wave your hand to stop them on the side of the road and enjoy a short local ride costing a little over USD$1.
If you’d prefer a private trip, look for taxis with a letter ‘T’ on their licence plate – but always remember to agree on the price before you hop in! In short, there are countless ways to access and explore this magical paradise – all that’s left to do now is book your trip!
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