Just a few short hours from New Zealand by plane, Vanuatu offers something for every traveller; relaxation, luxury, adventure, nature, sunshine and culture.
Originally inhabited by people from Melanesia, Vanuatu had its first European settlers in the 19th century. France and the UK claimed some of the land and it was called the New Hebrides until Vanuatu’s independence in 1980.
What we now know as Vanuatu is a collection of 83 small islands, basking in a sub-tropical climate, with the capital Port Vila on the island of Efate. The active volcanoes in the region contribute to the rocky shoreline. The ocean floor drops away quickly, which makes it a mecca for divers and fishermen alike. The scuba diving in Vanuatu is superb and offers reef and wreck dives for the novice and experienced divers. It is home to one of the world's most sought after dives; The President Coolidge, the largest wreck dive in the world. This 22,000 ton luxury liner converted to troop ship sank fully laden during the war, just a few metres off the beach. The front holds are jammed with the machinery of war. Guns, helmets, gas masks and personal effects are scattered across the promenade deck and bow.
Over 100,000 military personnel were based in Vanuatu during World War Two and fascinating memorabilia exists to this day.
Even novices can enjoy many dive sights within half an hour of Port Vila, teeming with sea-life in superb visibility.
Vanuatu is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire – where two of the earth's tectonic plates meet, which means tourists who love to see nature up close can get very close to volcanic action! You can even stand at the rim of an active volcano and peer down its molten lava on Tanna and Ambrym.
The region’s clear water is alive with tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Albacore and Marlin – music to fishermen’s ears! Choose from quick day trips or longer more serous expeditions.
Traditional culture is still a way of life in parts of Vanuatu. Tourists may visit villages who have chosen to stay true to their roots, which is a fascinating experience. All cultural & community tours are 100% owned and operated by local Ni-Vanuatu.
Vanuatu Jungle Zipline is an action packed adventure tour. Get strapped into your harness and zip four stories high through the lush, cool treetops, witness edge of the world views across Mele Bay and Port Vila Harbour, dare to cross the 80 meter high canyon, wobble across two suspension bridges and return high above a waterfall.
If all this sounds a little hectic for your ideal holiday, there are plenty of options to relax and be pampered, eat out and generally have a holiday.
If you are looking for quality accommodation, the Grand Hotel Vanuatu is the place to stay. Keep an eye out for more stories about Vanuatu in the coming months.