Top Things to Do In Vanuatu

Discover Vibrant Port Vila

The capital of the 83 islands that make up the republic of Vanuatu, Port Vila is a lively bay-side city brimming with incredible places to explore. Begin at the excellent National Museum of Vanuatu, opposite the Parliament, for a deep dive into the nation’s history and cultural evolution. .

You’ll learn about such rituals as “land-diving”, a death-defying rite of passage and yam harvest ceremony that takes the form of a heart-stopping headlong bungee jump! And “sand drawings” (“sandroing” in Bislama), complex drawings rendered by finger and UNESCO-recognised as Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The many artefacts on exhibit – from striking ceremonial headdresses and slit drums (“tam tams”) to outrigger canoes and jewellery – bring to life Vanuatu’s rich heritage, dating back to 2,000 BC when Melanesian groups began populating the islands. A cultural treasure-trove, the museum provides a nuanced understanding of the factors, influences and traditions that have shaped this captivating corner of the world.

Continue immersing yourself in all things Vanuatu at the beating heart of the city: Vila Outdoor Market, also known as Mama’s Market. In this eclectic fusion of Melanesian, French and Chinese cultures you will meet many “mamas” – colourfully-clad vendors who come to the market from neighbouring villages, laden with goods…and smiles!

A dizzying array of fresh fruits and vegetables are on display, like the pear-shaped choko, a squash-like veggie favoured in local cuisine, as well as yams, pawpaw, coconuts and much more. Treat yourself to the delicious skewer-roasted almonds, a Vanuatu favourite, and nibble your way through the crafts and clothing section of the market. You’ll find no shortage of souvenir and gift ideas, such as wooden carvings, handwoven baskets, scarves, shell jewellery and even canvas paintings by local artists.

As enjoyable as it is to shop at Vila Market, perhaps the best part is mingling with the mamas, creating memories together with the people that make up Vanuatu’s warm and enduring spirit.

Pamper Your Palate in Port Vila

Visitors to Vanuatu are often surprised to discover that the island nation produces some of the best beef in the world, grown on local farms and fed an antibiotic and hormone-free grass-only diet. This tender delicacy graces many local menus, including that of Waterfront Bar and Grill, a Port Vila institution for the last 40 years.

At the Grill, under a thatched Natangura roof, you’ll savour sweeping harbour views, live music and, of course, delicious dishes. In addition to the artfully prepared beef – expertly seasoned and seared over a flaming grill – other specialities include just-caught seafood. The Tahitian Fish Salad is a must-try standout, an exquisitely refreshing blend of raw fish, coconut milk, lime, tomatoes and cucumbers.

Another long-standing local restaurant, l’Houstalet captures Vanuatu’s French influences – offering such temptations as escargots in garlic butter and prawns mornay – while also serving flying fox and wild pigeon, classic island favourites.

Even if you decide to pass on a sit-down dinner and opt for grabbing something on the run, stall food can be a fine introduction to Vanuatu’s tasty cuisine. Try laplap, a vegetable and fruit paste with meat, or the tamale-like tuluk – both deliver authentic Vanuatu flavours, wrapped and cooked in banana-leaves and love.

Immerse Yourself In Mele Cascades

Only a 10 to 15 minute ride from Port Vila, Mele Cascades consists of a series of stunningly beautiful multi-tiered waterfalls, with translucent pools at their base. Whether you tackle the trek to the top, proving your mettle as you ascend the slippery trail clinging to a rope, or choose to stay near the bottom, relaxing in aquamarine waters, you’ll experience an unforgettable bit of bliss.

From 35 metres up, the views of Mele Bay are amazing and there is also a gorgeous garden to explore. At the foot of the Cascades, Mele Village, the largest indigenous village in Vanuatu, is an excellent place to view the day-to-day workings of traditional island life. It also happens to be home to some of the best tuluk around, so be sure to sample one if you haven’t yet!

Wander Mystery Island

Fancy escaping to a deserted isle, unspoiled by modern civilization? Experiencing the fullness of an idyllic moment without distractions from cell-phones, smart TVs, or digital games? If so, when you book your cruise to Vanuatu, make sure that Mystery Island is on your itinerary. This small uninhabited oasis is the perfect place to enjoy a storybook beach day, soaking up rays on powdered-sugar sand and snorkelling in azure waters full of curious clownfish, lazy turtles and rainbow-coloured coral.

Although there are no roads, electricity or inhabitants on Mystery Island, vendors from nearby Aneityum come to sell their goods, prepare food, braid hair and more. Life doesn’t get better than enjoying a beachside massage to the rhythm of gently lapping waves, then feasting on freshly-caught lobster.

Browse the rustic market stalls and you’ll find everything from handmade trinkets to delicious treats, like home-made banana pie. If after your lobster feast you managed to save some room, the pie is a sweet temptation you won’t regret!

In the mood for a stroll? With its entrancing and pristine scenic beauty, the approximately 75-minute walk around Mystery Island is the fitting finale to a restoring escape from civilization.

Immerse yourself in Vanuatu – its people, traditions and irresistible allure – with a memory-maxing cruise from Australia. Packed with authentic experiences, this is a holiday you will never forget.