Vanuatu 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Port Vila

Morning

  • Arrive at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, the capital city of Vanuatu
  • Obtain a visa on arrival (free for citizens of most countries)
  • Transfer to your accommodation using a taxi or shuttle service (~30 minutes)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Port Vila Markets to experience local culture and shop for souvenirs
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the harbour
  • Stop by the Vanuatu National Museum to learn about the country’s history and customs (open Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Port Vila’s many restaurants, serving a range of international cuisines
  • Take a sunset cruise around the harbour or relax at your accommodation

Things to Know

  • Vanuatu is a cash-based economy, so have some local currency (VUV) handy
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • English and French are widely spoken, but Bislama (a pidgin language) is also common

Day 2: Island Hopping

Morning

  • Take a ferry to Iririki Island, just off the coast of Port Vila (~10 minutes)
  • Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the island’s beaches
  • Visit the Iririki Island Resort for lunch and relaxation

Afternoon

  • Return to Port Vila and visit the Ekasup Cultural Village (open Monday to Saturday, 9am-4pm)
  • Learn about traditional Vanuatu customs and watch a kastom dance performance

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as the famous Mama’s Kitchen
  • Explore Port Vila’s nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from

Day 3: Adventure Time

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to the Mele Cascades, a series of waterfalls and swimming holes (~1 hour drive)
  • Swim in the natural pools and enjoy a picnic lunch

Afternoon

  • Go ziplining through the jungle canopy with Vanuatu’s only ziplining operator
  • Alternatively, take a scenic flight over Port Vila and surrounding islands (book in advance)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, such as The Waterfront Bar & Grill
  • Relax at your accommodation or explore the local nightlife

Day 4: Beach Day and Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing on Mele Beach, one of Vanuatu’s most popular beaches
  • Take a leisurely walk along the beach or try your hand at water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding

Afternoon

  • Return to Port Vila and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs
  • Depart for Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) and fly home

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but agree on the fare before departing
  • Shuttle services can be booked through your accommodation or tour operators
  • Renting a car is also an option, but be aware of local driving habits and road conditions

Other Things to Know

  • Vanuatu has a tropical climate, so pack light, breathable clothing and sun protection
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife, including the iconic dugongs (sea cows)
  • Try some local specialties like laplap (a dish made from grated yam or cassava) and kava (a traditional beverage)

I hope you enjoy your trip to Vanuatu!