Vanuatu - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: Drinking kava, a locally produced non-alcoholic drink, is an ancient tradition in Vanuatu, but should be drunk in moderation. Visitors wishing to explore the islands must be aware that Vanuatu has strict land-ownership regulations. Most local residents will allow visitors to take their photograph but permission must always be sought first.

Visitors to Vanuatu should show respect at all times for the country’s traditional values and its people’s strong Christian beliefs; and should also avoid wearing revealing clothing in public.

Informal wear is suitable for most occasions. Business is normally conducted in English or French. Office hours are Mon–Fri 0730–1130 and 1330–1630.

Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended length of stay and visitors must hold a valid onward or return ticket. All food, fruits, animal products and plants must be declared on entry into Vanuatu.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the right and visitors can drive on their national driving licence. Cars can be hired from international agencies located in Port Vila. There is no public transport on Vanuatu. Private buses and minibuses run but there are no timetables. The most common way of catching a bus is to flag one down and tell the driver where to go. Taxis are also available and are metered.

Inter-island travel is by boat from Port Vila and Espíritu Santo, or by Vanair, the domestic airline. However, both services can be infrequent, so should be confirmed before travel. Visitors should exercise caution when considering visiting active volcanoes on any of the islands in Vanuatu, and should check with the Vanuatu Tourist Office for latest reports on volcanic activity before travelling.

Travel health: Medical facilities in Vanuatu are adequate for routine treatments. Visitors should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance, as serious cases will require air evacuation to Australia or New Zealand for treatment.

Malaria and dengue fever are common, and visitors should ensure they have insect repellent and suitable clothing to protect against mosquito bites.

Mains water is chlorinated and safe to drink; bottled water is widely available.

Money: Local currency is the vatu, though Australian dollars are accepted in major cities. There are ATMs at the ANZ and Westpac banks, and the use of credit cards is mainly restricted to Port Vila and Luganville. Travellers cheques are widely accepted. Banking hours are Mon–Fri 0800–1500.

There were 62,082 tourist arrivals in 2005.