Vanuatu hotels and tours

Vanuatu Destination Guide

Guide en Francais: Destination Vanuatu 

Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, is a charming pot pourie of cultures - blending English, French and Chinese with a rich Melanesian base. On the island of Efate, 'Vila' as it is often called, has numerous travel and tour operators for your soft or wild adventure safaris; primitive arts and crafts galleries, kids playgrounds by the sea, string bands performing in open air concerts, markets overfilled with 100% organically grown produce and new age gourmet cuisine cafes serving chilled French wines.

Scarves from VanuatuUnderwater lovers head for Mele Bay, or Erakor Island whilst the wind chasers go for Takara, surfers aim for Pango Point.

Our Vanuatu Destination Guide and Vanuatu Tour Suggestions will tell you all you need to know about the best places to visit during your Vanuatu vacation. For tips on how to get around in Vanuatu, read our Vanuatu Transportation guide.

Things to See & Do on your Vanuatu Holiday

Port Vila, VanuatuIt only takes 30 minutes to walk from one end of Port Vila to the other. But a traveller usually makes a day out of it shopping at the array of Duty Free shops, China town, cafes, arts and crafts and waterfront markets. Iririki Island and the War Memorial look out are favoured by photographers.

Capital of Vanuatu - Port Vila

The original intention for the establishment of the Capital was an area called Havannah Harbour on the North West Coast of Efate Island. Due to a lack of water the site was moved to Vila Bay. In 1906, Port Vila was declared the seat of government by the Condominium government. It all started as a wild outpost town. By the 1930s Vila had gained some with around a 1,000 Europeans now living in the town. The French and British social calendar at the time was full of cocktail parties, horseraces, club tennis and general frolic. The expatriate population were living a privileged life, in contrast the NiVanuatu people who had a daily curfew at 9pm. Vila boomed when it was declared a Tax Haven in 1970. This encouraged construction, development and investment especially for Vanuatu travel and tourism which has continued to this day.

Visitors to Vanuatu should remember that Port Vila does not reflect the rest of Vanuatu. Ask any NiVanuatu in the street, the majority will tell you they're from another island. Port Vila is seen by the NiVanuatu people as their Capital City but the cultural and spiritual core of Vanuatu is in each of the islands that make up the archepelago. Vila represents 80% of the economic power of Vanuatu with 20% of the population. The other islands represent 20% of the economic power of Vanuatu with 80% of the population. That being said, Vila has grown up to be a lovely, safe and friendly place for all to visit.

If you have found this travel website useful, please link to us so that others can benefit (see our "links" page).

The following is a list of local information on Port Vila:

Air Charters

Air Club Vila
Here you can charter a plane (preferably with a pilot) to take you to the outer islands. Plot your own destination and if there's a reasonable airstrip, the Air Club can get you there.
Location: Next to Port Vila Domestic Airport
Telephone: +678 22514
Email: airclubv@vanuatu.com.vu


Helicopters (Vanuatu)
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 25022 or 44106/43106
Email:
info@vanuatuhelicopters.com


Unity Airlines

This private company offers charter flights to any destination in Vanuatu. See volcanoes, coral islands, meet the outer island cultures and much more.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 24475
Email: unity-airlines@vanuatu.com.vu


Vanuatu Seaplanes
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 22591 or 42619


Art Galleries/ Museums

Diana Tam - Telephone: +(678) 23038
Michoutouchkine & Pilioko Foundation Gallery - Telephone: +(678)  27753
National Cultural Centre - Telephone: +(678) 23654
Matanawora WWII - Telephone: +(678) 25600


Banks

Trading banks are ANZ, Westpac,the National Bank of Vanuatu and Bred Vanuatu. Banking hours are 9am to 3:30pm Monday to Friday, except for Westpac and the National Bank of Vanuatu which opens 8:30am to 3:30pm. The National Bank of Vanuatu airport office is open for all flight arrivals and departures. You will find it next to the Vanuatu Standby Accommodation Travel Desk inside the duty free area.


Bars

Anchor Inn
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  22582

Le Bar "Starfish
Location:
Second Lagoon, Port Vila
Telephone:  +678 25806

Moo's Bar & Grill
Location: Port Vila
Telephone:  +678  24536

Office Pub/Kelly Bar
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  27716

Seven Seas Brewery & Saloon Bar
Country Western themed saloon, restaurant, pool tables, darts
Location: Mele Road, Port Vila
Telephone: +678 26670

The Port Bar & Restaurant
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  23366

The Voodoo Bar
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  55533

Trader Vic's & Night Club
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  29100


Best Views of Vila

- Top of Rue Emile Mercet is the WWI memorial with another great vantage point 400 metres along Ave du General de Gaule.
- Elluk Plateau is the site of a new housing development called 'Le Plateau'. Views from there are magnificent.
- Klem Hill Look Out has magnificent views of Mele and Port Vila Bay.
- Iririki Island also provides great views of the city.


Botanical Gardens

 Rainbow Gardens & Tropical Botanical Nursery

If you are a gardener, nature lover or just human, don't miss a visit to Rainbow Gardens when in Vanuatu, the closest thing to a national Botanical Garden.

It is only a 15 minute drive from Port Vila, or 30 minute walking distance from Hideaway Island, yet you could be in the Amazon jungle!

Wander around Vanuatu's endemic and flora display from all corners of the world, see the largest collection of Anthuriums and Heliconias in the South Pacific, endangered palms, Staghorns, Bromeliads, Cordelynes; the Wetlands with Lotus, Waterlillies, Papyrus and water plants abound, along with many water fowl, not to be outdone by the large variety of friendly insects, frogs, chameleons and other safe reptiles in their natural environment.

Don't miss the Display Gardens which contain a wide variety of rare palms from the outer islands of Vanuatu; edible and medicinal plants.

Rainbow Gardens is the country's oldest and largest working botanical nursery and propagator of plants.

We invite you to visit the nursery, and for personalized service, contact Brian or Pam Fisher on 23603. Enjoy the great hospitality, and have refreshments amongst the gardens and ponds.

 

Rainbow Gardens operates from 8 am to 4pm; 7 days a week.

 

 

Rainbow Gardens
Port Vila, Vanuatu

Pam & Brian and Sophie will delight in looking after you.
Email: pam.rainbowgardens@vanuatu.com.vu
Tel: 678 23528


Car, Buggy, Motor Bike Hire

LET'S TALK DIRTY!

Let the friendly local guides at Off Road Adventures take you on a self drive guided tour of Port Vila and its surrounds, in our 2 seater, easy to drive automatic, and safe off-road buggys.

We will take you on and off road to beautiful tropical beaches, turtle hatcheries and local villages.

This is a fantastic way to get out of town, and see much more of Vanuatu.
Come with us and have the dirtiest fun since you were a kid!

We operate twice a day, 7 days a week.

Children between 6-11 years travel at half price.

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your Off Road Adventures experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation voucher to Off Road Adventures.

Conditions apply:  Bookings are to be made direct with Off Road Adventures and paid in cash only.

  

Off Road Adventures
Port Vila
Dale & Kellie Zanker
Email:  offroad@vanuatu.com.vu or
Tel:  +678  25479
Mob: +678  7742446

 

 

 

Port Vila, Efate Island 

Autro Car Rental Vila
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  27800/27802

Budget Car & Truck Rental
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  23170 / 25700

Buggy Fun Rental
Location: Port Vila
Telephone:  +678  22775

Laho Rent-a-car
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  26639

Discount Rentals
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  23242

World Car Rental
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678  26515

Luganville, Espiritu Santo

Apex Motors & Car Rental
Location:  Main Road, Luganville Espiritu Santo
Telephone:  +678  36061

Go Vanuatu Santo
4WD, mini bus, pick ups, buggy's motorcycles

Location: Luganville Espiritu Santo
Telephone:  +678  36363


Casinos

For those wanting a flutter, there is a small casino at Le Meridien offering blackjack, roulette, baccarat and poker machines. It stays open till early morning. There are also poker machines at the Melanesian 'Club 21', Talimoru and Club Vanuatu in Vila.

China Town

General Store, China Town, Port Vila, VanuatuYou can't miss it. It occupies a third of the town and growing. A colourful array of Chinese imported goods.

Conference Facilities

Conference Rooms available in Vanuatu:
 

Conference Rooms

Conference Hall
Boardroom
Layout

Conference Room
Theatre
Layout

Functions Whole
Resort

Guest Rooms

Efate

 

 

 

 

Chantilly's on the Bay

25

60

100

20

Erakor Island Resort

15

30

50

29

Iririki Island Resort

30

80

80+

131

Le Lagon Pacific Ballroom

120

320

500

140

Le Lagon Wild Ginger

20

30

500

140

Le Meridien Valea Room

34

40

40

147

Le Meridien Erakor Ballroom

70

200

400

147

Le Meridien Erongo Room

20

N/A

80

147

Le Meridien Marquee

100

400

600

147

Nirvana Restaurant  -Conference Room (A/Con)

20

--

150

15

The Melanesian Port Vila Hotel Oasis Room

16

30

60

80

The Melanesian Port Vila Hotel Thai Room

45

130

60

80

Espiritu Santo

 

 

 

 

Aore Island Resort

--

--

45

18

Beachfront Resort

26

60

60

26

Bokissa Private Island Resort

30

35

35

15

Deco Stop Lodge

30

60

60

12

Hotel Santo

40

80

80

30

Tanna

 

 

 

 

White Grass Ocean Resort

30

30

30

12

Tanna Lodge

30

30

30

13

 

Cultural Tours

See also Landmark Tours

Ekasup Cultural Village
The people from Futuna Island are renowned for their intricate weaving of wearing apparel and their dancing. Learn about traditional medicine, and native culture.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 24217


Ha! Friendly Tours

Operated by local people, tours include Port Vila City, Eton Beach, Shark and Turtle Feeding.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 47197


LELEPA ISLAND DAY TOUR

Meet Albert, the proud and justifiable owner/operator of Lelepa Tours.

A day with Lelepa tours begins with a pick up from your hotel early morning.  Followed by a 45 minute ride to Havannah Harbour followed by a 10 minute boat ride over blinding blue waters to the 160 acre Lelepa Island

A guided nature walk through the island forest awaits you, with stops to identify and discuss the useful herbs used in "local medicine", visit the large historic cave and discuss the fascinating history of Chief Roi Mata who used the cave (see our Chief Roi Mata information in the page). Snorkelling and hand feeding the fish in the coral garden is a must before your beach BBQ lunch, after which a hammock under a tree is a pretty good option.

 

 

 

 






Winding down the day visiting the local village followed by afternoon tea and your opportunity to purchase locally made artefacts.

This tour is soft on the body, easy on the pocket, and so so good for the soul. If you're into fishing, Albert and his team will ensure you get your catch.

Fitness level:  average

Tip:  Best to bring your own snorkelling equipment, beach/sun necessities.

Credit Cards accepted.

Tours depart daily except Saturdays.
Duration of tour:  8 hours
Office:  Port Vila (next to Port Vila markets)
Email: lelepatours@vanuatu.com.vu or
call +678  23144

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your Lelepa Tour Experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to the staff at Lelepa Tours.

Conditions apply:  Bookings are to be made direct with Lelepa Tours and paid in cash only.
 


Nafonu Tatoka Tours
Operated by local people. Tour includes cultural village.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 24217
Email: tatokatours@vanuatu.com.vu


Siviri
Operated by local people. Tours include kayaking in fresh water caves, waterfalls, snorkelling, bat caves, turtles.
Bookings (to be advised).
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 23288


Espiritu Santo Island

Santo Heritage Tours, Timmy Rovu
Telephone: +678 40968


Eco-Tours

VANUATU ECO TOURS

You cannot get you closer to the indigenous people and nature of Vanuatu than with the country's undisputed experienced ecoman Pascal Guillet, owner - operator of Vanuatu Ecotours.

He offers unique handcrafted, safe and personal walking, biking, kayaking and river tours throughout the archipelago in order for you to experience a way of life you only read about in National Geography.

A extensive range of tours are available for families or professional trekkies at all fitness levels.


Email: ecotour@vanuatu.com.vu or
call +678  5403506

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your Ecotour Experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to Vanuatu Ecotour.

Conditions apply: Bookings are to be made direct to Vanuatu Ecotour and paid in cash only.


Erakor Island

A beautiful atoll in the middle of Erakor Lagoon. It has a small forest to explore plus a lovely reef and swimming area. Here you will find Erakor Island Resort and Spa.

Exchanging Currency

ANZ and Westpac banks in the centre of town will exchange, however, a privately run exchange house called 'Goodies' also in town provides better exchange rates.

Money Exchange Houses

-
Global Exchange - Telephone: +(678) 23917
- Goodies Exchange - Telephone: +(678) 23917

Money Transfer

-
Western Union - Telephone: +(678) 23917


Fishing - Port Vila (Efate Island)

See also Diving Operators

Crusoe Game Fishing Adventures
Location
: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 45490 or +678 22439
Email: crusoe@vanuatu.com.vu


Kahuna Charters Ltd.
Location:
Port Vila
Telephone: +678 27485


Game & Reef Fishing Charters

Budget reef fishing with the locals
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 22398
Email: parasailing@vanuatu.com.vu


Ocean Blue

With over 30 years experience in sport fishing and cruising the Vanuatu Islands, Ocean Blue have a full range of professionally fitted boats for you to catch reef fish to the giant Marlins.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 41415


Pacific Marlin Game Fishing
Location:
Port Vila
Telephone: +678 40153


Saltwater Fishing Adventures

Budget reef fishing with the locals
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 22328
Email: saltwater@vanuatu.com.vu


Touvannah Fishing & Snorkelling Charters
Budget reef fishing with Gideon George who knows all the good spots.
Location:
Telephone: +678 26226


Vanuatu Game Fishing
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 23149


V Factor

Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 23149


Golf

There are four main golf courses on Efate:

Port Vila Golf & Country Club

 Play the scenic Port Vila Golf & Country Club course at Mele.  A challenging 18 hole golfing experience capped off with a light meal and refreshments after the game in the club house.

Only 7 km from town, and easily accessible by bus or taxi.  If you prefer, the club can organize transport for you at a reasonable cost.

Call the Club Manager on 22564
Email:  pvgcc@vanuatu.com.vu

 

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT on a golfing package (club hire, bag trolley & green fees) upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to PVGCC.

 

 

 

- Le Lagon Vanuatu Resort - Golf Club Fees- 1,000vt, Cart - 250vt, Green Fare - 300vt, Golf Balls - 250vt (when you lose a ball).
- Le Meridien (for in-house guests only).
- Whitesands Country Club.


Health and Beauty

Lotus Health & Beauty
Come pamper yourself and rejuvenate.
Lotus Health & Beauty offer a number of treatments including:
Hot Stone Masage, Aromatherapy Massage, Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage, Head & Scalp Massage.
Reiki Healing
Facial Treatments - Express Facial, Lotus Island Facial, Deluxe Facial, Mens Facial.
Body Treatments - Coconut Body Bliss, Body Scrub, Scrub and Mud.
Hands & Feet Treatments
Little Ladies & Gents (Kids) - relaxing massage, reiki, hair brading
Hair Treatments
Location:  Opposite Sacred Heart Cathedral in town.
Opening Times:  Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm; Thursday Night till 6:30pm
Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm
Telephone:  +678  28811
Email: relax@lotushealthbeauty.com


Horseriding

Club Hippique Adventure Park
If you have never been on a horse before, the new owners, David and Heidi Oberstar will ensure you have an enjoyable and safe day riding through tropical rainforests and along shores of pristine white sand beaches.
Location: Second Lagoon, 10 minutes' drive from town.
Open from 8am to 6:30pm Tuesday to Sunday
Telephone: +678 23347
Email: chap@vanuatu.com.vu


 
L'HIPPO-CAMPUS

The Sea Horse Equestrian Centre by the sea or the "L'Hippo-Campus" as it is also known, is a long established boutique horse riding school that has become an icon of Efate island.

Located 15 minutes from Port Vila on the longest, and one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, consequently (you guessed it!) L'Hippo-Campus is renowned for its beach and ocean rides.

  

Be it a spirited early morning ocean shore trot and swim with your horse, or romantic sunset beach rides complete with drinks & cocktail snacks, or overnight camping "cowboy style" with your horse, Eloise, the bubbly and personal French owner will organise it for you.

The centre prides itself on its well trained, gentle horses to carry you and your children for many hours with safe and comfortable equipment.

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your L'Hippo-Campus Experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation voucher to Sea Horse Equestrian.

Conditions apply:  Bookings are to be made direct with The Sea Horse Equestrian Centre and paid in cash only.

Email:  Eloise at: lhippocampus@vanuatu.com.vuor call 678.55 40102
L'Hippocampus (The Sea Horse Ranch)
Lessons, Pony Club, Trail Rides, Expeditions, Equestrian Shows


Inter Island Boat Transfers

North Run
06:00 - depart Port Vila 10:00 arrive Lamen Bay,  Epi Island - Friday's
10:15 - depart Epi          14:00 arrive Litslits, Malekula Island
14:15 - depart Lits         17:00 arrive Espiritu Santo Island

Cost:  8,500 vatu each way per person
 
South Run
06:00 - depart Espiritu Santo   08:00 - arrive Litslits, Malekula Island - Saturday's
08:15 - depart Litslits                12:00 - arrive Epi Island
12:15 - depart Epi                      16:30 - arrive Port Vila 

Cost:  8,500 vatu each way per person


Internet Cafes

- Connect Cafe (next to Waterfront) - Telephone: +678 25137
- Cybervillage Numbatu (opposite Au Bone Marche) - Telephone: +678 25766
- Downtown Internet - Telephone: +678  26760
- Naviti Internet Cafe - Telephone: +678  27813
- Pacific Cafe & Internet - Teleplhone: +678  26240
- Vanuatu Post Internet Cafe - Telephone: +678  22000


Kayaking

AQUATIC INDULGENCE

Paddle your glass bottom kayak with us to our tiny coral atoll; swim or snorkel with tropical fish in pristine coral gardens. The lucky ones will get to see our visiting Turtles and Dolphins.

This ½ day aquatic indulgence is only 15 minutes drive from Port Vila, located in the safe and warm waters of beautiful Mele Bay.

Your "experience" starts at 9am or 1pm daily, however 24 hour notice is required in order for us to personally co-ordinate your hotel return transfers, equipment, guides and light refreshments on your return.

Children between 6 to 12 years are half price.

Receive an Exclusive 20% DISCOUNT, off your Kayaking experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to Kayaking Vanuatu on arrival.

Conditions apply:  Bookings are to be made direct with Kayaking Vanuatu and paid in cash only.

 

 

For bookings & enquiries:
Kayaking Vanuatu
Email: Charmaine or Terry at: islandreams@bigpond.com
Or phone: +678  7754954 / +678  7752952 or +678  7743431

 

 

 


Land Activities

WET 'N' WILD ZORBING TOUR

Meet Christina and her team to experience one of the longest, wildest, most thrilling Zorb rides anywhere in the world.
Brace yourself for one of the most unique experiences of your life.
Roll down the picturesque Mele Hills inside a 2.5m giant inflated hydro ball.

Warning - You will get wet and have great fun!!

3 Rides guaranteed.   

 
  

 

 

Tours depart Tuesday and Friday 9:30am (minimum groups apply)
(alternative days can be arranged for large groups) 

Email:  tomrobb1@gmail.com or call  +678 5364064

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your Zorbing Experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to WET 'N' WILD!

Conditions apply:  Bookigns are to be made direct with Wet 'n' Wild and paid in cash only.


Markets

Markets, Port Vila, VanuatuOn the waterfront, in the middle of town. Open every day except Sunday, with Saturday being the busiest day. Get there early and see the abundance of exotic fruits and vegetables plus a lot of local art and crafts. Best prices in town.

Mele Cascades

Operated by the traditional owners, the path up these magnificent cascades is half the fun.  Crystal clear swimming holes, and beautiful forest to enjoy. Ten minutes out of town by bus. Give yourself half the day to enjoy this lovely spot.

National Cultural Centre

Here you will find a range of cultural artefacts and displays of ceremonial head dresses, traditional pottery, traditional boats and good books on Vanuatu. Telephone: +(678) 22129; Fax: +(678) 26590.

Photolabs

- Top Shots Processing - Telephone: +(678) 23260 (only one who does slides & is digital savvy)
- Fung Kuei - Telephone: +(678) 22556
- Photo Express - Telephone: +(678) 22823


Physiotherapist/Chiropractor/Osteopath

Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, and Osteopath.
Yes, you can get a relaxing massage at a number of resorts in Vanuatu, but if you want a real professional one to fix some of those muscle pains, then treat yourself to Mr. Gerard Sariani's 20 year international experience...plus he has a terrific sense of humour!

Contact Details:
Location:  Hotel Olympic building, Port Vila
Telephone:  26777
Email: sariani@vanuatu.com.vu


Postage

The Port Vila Main Post Office is in the centre of town, opposite the ANZ Bank. Hours of opening are Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 4:30pm and Saturday from 7:30am to 11:30am. Underwater post box at Hideaway Island opens every day.
For enquiries telephone: +(678) 22000
Email: vanuatupost@vanuatu.com.vu

Round the Island to Nguna, Pele or Emae

There is a locally owned and operated bus (Roger - ph: 23191; mobile: 57232) that leaves Independence Park (next to the church - 10 minutes walk from the town Post Office).  It will take you to Eton Beach, Bethel, Beachcomber Lodge and Emao Wharf where you can hop onto the boat to Nguna Island.

The bus ticket will cost you 500 vatu and the island boat ticket 300 vatu to Nguna, Pele or Emao.  The bus takes 25 persons.  Boats from Emao to the islands are infrequent so be prepared to wait.


Sailing

See also Fishing, Diving

Coongoola Tours
Day sailing on the ‘Coongoola' 23 metre classic timber ketch - enjoy the charm and character of this ‘lady of the sea'. Departing Havannah Harbour, you will visit Moso Island and Tranquillity Island Resort where you can walk on fine white sand to the resort's turtle rookery. Next stop is a private beach where you can snorkel or scuba dive pristine coral and see a myriad of tropical fish. Following a hearty BBQ on the beach, The Coongoola will gently sail you home.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 25020
Fax: +678 22979
Email: drewco@vanuatu.com.vu


Jade on Erakor Lagoon
Location:
Beach below Le Meridien Resort
Telephone: +678 58079


Meridian Charters
George, the owner and Captain of "Caraid", is well loved in these parts. His ship is a magnificent 60ft luxury motor yacht. He conducts sail and snorkel cruises in beautiful Paradise Cove and Port Vila Bay for half day or full day trips. His sunset cruise will be a highlight of your holiday.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 25595 or 22558
Email: meridiancharters@vanuatu.com.vu


Sailaway Cruises
Owned and skippered by another well known and charming personality Peter Whitelaw who operates his trimaran further out to Eretoka (Hat island and Paul's Rock) both areas have spectacular coral; a snorkellers and divers paradise. A brilliant full day out to sea. Scuba Diving available.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 23802 or 25155
Fax: +678 24452
Email: sailaway@vanuatu.com.vu

Sailaway Cruises also manage a liveaboard charter yacht called "Golden Wing" which is a 42ft sailing trimaran, with 7 berths and basic facilities.

Charters include 3 nights around North Efate island.


The Barge
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: 23103/46270


Scenic Flights

VANUATU FROM THE AIR!

See pristine tropical atolls and islands, live volcanos, coral reef gardens, and dense jungles from the safety of your modern helicopters and experienced pilots guaranteeing you a safe and awesome experience.

Whether you're flying for the sheer exhilaration, or destined to have a champagne picnic on a secluded beach, or inspecting your Vanuatu property investment, peering down the throat of an active volcano, flying down a jungle canyon, or being transferred to your resort, a helicopter trip provides unique aerial panoramic views and Vanuatu Helicopters knows every spot in Vanuatu.

Vanuatu Helicopters are also highly experienced in filming; aerial photography assignments; lifting jobs, and island surveying.

Ask Simon or Jeremy about their various options: Scenic flights, Romantic fights or Adventure flights.

You will find one that is made for you.
Email: info@vanuatuhelicopters.com
Tel:  +678 7744106 or 25022

Receive an Exclusive 10% DISCOUNT off your scenic flight experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to Vanuatu Helicopters. All flights require a minimum of two passengers.

Conditions apply:  Bookings are to be made direct with Vanuatu Helicopters and paid in cash only.


Scuba Diving - Espiritu Santo

There are three professional dive operators in Santo. All these can dive the Coolidge and other wrecks and coral reefs.

Allan Power Dive Tours
Location: Main Street, across from Hotel Santo
Telephone: +678 36822
Email: mailto:apower@mail.@vanuatu.com.vu


Aquamarine
Location: Near Santo Chinese Restaurant
Telephone: +678 36196
Email: aquamrne@vanuatu.com.vu


Bokissa Island Dive
Location: At Bokissa Eco Island Resort
Telephone: +678 36913
Email: reservations@bokissa.vu


Santo Island Dive & Fishing
Location: Main Street, Luganville
Telephone: +678 58080 / 58082
Email: deepfish@vanuatu.com.vu


Scuba Diving - Port Vila (Efate Island)

There are too many extraordinary dive sites in Efate to name them all - crashed WWII planes, ship wrecks, coral drop-offs, chasms, caverns, and swim throughs. See also Fishing Operators.

Coongoola Tours
Day sailing on the ‘Coongoola' 23 metre classic timber ketch - enjoy the charm and character of this ‘lady of the sea'. Departing Havannah Harbour, you will visit Moso Island and Tranquillity Island Resort where you can walk on fine white sand to the resort's turtle rookery. Next stop is a private beach where you can snorkel or scuba dive pristine coral and see a myriad of tropical fish. Following a hearty BBQ on the beach, The Coongoola will gently sail you home.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 25020
Fax: +678 22979
Email:
drewco@vanuatu.com.vu


Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary
‘Hideaway' as it is referred to by the locals is a densely vegetated tiny island in the middle of Mele Bay. From here the professional diving shop runs snorkelling and scuba tours to magnificent coral reefs and shipwrecks. A great base for aspiring scuba divers.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 26660
Fax: +678 23867
Email: info@hideaway.com.vu


Nautilus Watersports
After many years of providing consistent excellent service and maintaining top of the line equipment, Nautilus has built a business that encompasses game and reef fishing charters, diving introductory courses to pro dive packages and parasailing. The professional team at Nautilus will be delighted to look after you.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 22398
Email: nautilus@vanuatu.com.vu


Tranquillity Dive Centre Moso Island
Location: Moso Island
Telephone: +678 25020
Email: drewco@vanuatu.com.vu


Sightseeing / Landmark Tours

Also see Cultural Tours

Evergreen Tours
The wonderful people at Evergreen Tours are also the traditional owners and operators of the spectacular Mele Waterfall and Cascades. With round island tours, and kayaking on Mele Bay, they are able to provide you with one or two full days of fun.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 23050
Fax: +678 23045
Email: evergreen@vanuatu.com.vu


Melanesian Tours
Melanesian Tours specialise in personalised day tours around Efate, Wedding Picnics and VIP services for visiting dignitaries.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 26847
Email: melanesiantours@vanuatu.com.vu


Espiritu Santo Island

SANTO ISLAND HERITAGE TOURS

Meet Timmy Ravu, the largest and longest operating tour provider on the island of Espiritu Santo.

Timmy will tailor make an island experience tour to suit your personal requirements, from a historical themed WWII discovery journey, to an exotic styled deserted tropical beach, to the adrenalin rush adventure of the Millennium Cave.

 

 

 

 

 

Some classic Heritage tours are: Million dollar point, Champagne beach, Vil Vil cultural village, Millennium Cave, Riri Riri River Canoe Trip, Pekoa Bay Beach Chill Out, Golden Beach & Blue Hole, World War II History, Santo's Famous Sights, and the Vatthe Conservation Area. 

Email: heritagetours@vanuatu.com.vu or
Telephone:  +678  7740968 ; Mob: +678  36862

Receive an Exclusive 15% DISCOUNT off your Heritage Tours experience upon presenting your Vanuatu Hotels accommodation booking voucher to Heritage Tours.

Conditions apply: Bookings are to be made direct with Heritage Tours and paid in cash only.

 


Swimming & Snorkelling

The best snorkelling can be found at Hideaway Island, Erakor Island, Paradise Cove Resort, and Nirvana Resort at the end of Pango Road. (see listing - Country Guide:Ecotourism - snorkelling).

Bali Hai has the only public swimming pool in Port Vila.
Telephone: +(678) 27202.

Best Swimming Pools in Port Vila

If the place you are staying at does not have a pool don't fret, Port Vila has plenty of great swimming pools that you can use as long as you are not a freeloader.

These pools are maintained at great expense to the owners for their house guests, so if you want to use them and you're not a guest of the resort then ask at reception if its OK (there may be a private function on), and at least spend some money in the place by having lunch or dinner on the premises.

Best Pools are: * Le Lagon Resort * Le Meridien Resort * Iririki Island Resort ($20 island entry fee) * Breakas Beach Resort (adults only) * The Sebel Vanuatu Hotel Hideaway Island Resort ($6 island entry fee) * The Melanesian Port Vila Hotel * Coconut Palms Resort * Chantillys on the Bay * Kaiviti Motel * Sunset Bungalows Resort * Mangoes Resort * Nirvana ResortBenjor Beach Club * Moorings Hotel.  

Outside of Port Vila you will find: * Beachcomber Lodge (Natural hot spring pool).


Tennis

The Cercle Sportif Tennis Club in Port Vila (Telephone: +(678) 22437) has four excellent floodlit courts for hire or Le Meridien Hotel (Telephone: +(678) 22040) or Le Lagon Resort has tennis courts at 500vt for 1 hour; racket hire at 250vt.

The Undiscovered Vanuatu

For an exceptional personal travel diary of Vanuatu please go to:

www.travelblog.org/Oceania/Vanuatu/Malekula/blog-315138.html and follow Ed Wallaces trip deep into the jungles of the islands of this extraordinary country.


Walking in Port Vila

Be careful especially Australian, New Zealand and British Visitors as the traffic drives 'on the wrong side of the road!' For the rest of the world, still be careful, as the traffic does not always stay on the right side of the road.


Water Activities

See Sailing, Diving, Fishing

Blue Sub Tours
Underwater marine tour with half submerged mini sub.
Location: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 43144


Parasailing & Watersports (Vanuatu) Ltd.
Location
: Port Vila
Telephone: +678 22398

 






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Your Local Connection

Welcome/Bienvenue to Vanuatu!

Vanuatu hotels team

Meet John and Silvana Nicholls Vanuatu's premier independent travel, adventure, and leisure specialists ... your local connection in Port Vila.  We are delighted to offer you the largest and most comprehensive travel website on Vanuatu in the world, and to ensure you receive unequaled service (travellers feedback).  A deep attachment and respect for the people of Vanuatu and the country's natural heritage is at the core of our personal and business philosophy. Let us show you our beautiful country.

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Accommodation          From

Seachange Lodge, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 100.00


Tanna Evergreen Resort & Tours, (Tanna Evergreen Bungalows), Tanna IslandAUD 50.00


Pacific Lagoon Apartments, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 188.00


Chez Troppo, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 220.00


Hotel Santo, Espiritu Santo IslandAUD 80.00


Oyster Island Resort, Espiritu SantoAUD 95.00


Turtle Bay Lodge, Espiritu SantoAUD 32.00


Worawia Resort Mele, Mele, Efate IslandAUD 36.00


Mangoes Resort, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 179.00


Tradewinds Resort, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 150.00


Aore Island Resort, Espiritu Santo IslandAUD 185.00


Poppys on the Lagoon, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 189.00


Mystery Island Bungalows, Mystery IslandAUD 33.00


Nirvana Resort, Paradise Cove, Efate IslandAUD 100.00


Nawori Sea View Bungalow, Malekula IslandAUD 38.00


Palms Resort & Casino, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 144.00


Pandanus Bay Waterfront Apartments, Efate IslandAUD 399.00


Rose Bay Bungalows, Malekula IslandAUD 32.00


Bokissa Private Island Resort, Espiritu SantoAUD 360.00


Hideaway Island Resort, Mele Bay, Efate IslandAUD 39.00


Breakas Beach Resort, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 240.00


The Grand Hotel & Casino, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 239.00


Sunrise Bungalows, Manuapen, Tanna IslandAUD 39.00


Iririki Island Resort & Spa, Iririki Island, Efate IslandAUD 279.00


Tanna Lodge, Isangel, Tanna IslandAUD 220.00


Coconut Palms Resort, Port Vila, Efate IslandAUD 56.00


Iririki Island Resort - Snorkelers Cove, Iririki Island, Efate IslandAUD 499.00


Apex Garden Hotel, Espiritu Santo IslandAUD 79.00


Lonnoc Beach Bungalows, Espiritu SantoAUD 33.00


Benjor Beach Club, Mele Bay, Efate IslandAUD 200.00


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