Vanuatu is divided into six provinces. Torba province includes Torres and Banks islands. Sanma consists of Espiritu Santo, Malo and surrounding islands. Penama is made up of Pentecost, Ambae and Maewo. Malampa province includes Malekula, Ambrym and Paama. Shefa province is Shepherd islands and Efate where the capital Port Vila is located, the southernmost province Tafea consists of Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, Erromango and Aniwa.

All provinces have their own signature attractions from Torba's women's water music and snake dancers, pristine blue holes, world war 2 relics and champagne beach of Sanma, Penama's daring land diving ritual, vibrant cultures, black magic, and ancient tribes in Malampa, Shefa being the international gateway is a mix potpourri of culture and gourmet, and the mighty Mount Yasur down south in Tafea province.

Shefa

Sanma

Tafea

Malampa

Penama

Torba

Frequently Asked Questions

Vanuatu has six provinces. From north to south they are Torba, the Torres and Banks; Sanma, including Santo and Malo; Penama, Pentecost, Ambae and Maewo; Malampa, Malekula, Ambrym and Paama; Shefa, Efate and the Shepherd Islands; and Tafea, Tanna, Aneityum, Futuna, Erromango and Aniwa. Each has its own administrative centre and a distinct mix of islands.
Match the province to the trip you want. Shefa is the easiest first stop, with Port Vila and day trips. Sanma suits diving, blue holes and a longer stay around Luganville. Tafea is volcano and strong kastom country; Malampa and Penama are more cultural and remote; Torba is the quietest and hardest to reach.
The far north, Torba, is the smallest and remotest province, with reefs and very limited services. The far south, Tafea, is defined by Tanna's Mount Yasur and strong island kastom. In between, Sanma is the largest-island hub, Penama and Malampa are more village-focused, and Shefa is the international gateway.
Outside Shefa and parts of Sanma, expect simpler bungalows, fewer shops and ATMs, and transport that depends on weather and small planes or boats. Build spare days into the plan, carry cash, and travel with a local host or guide when visiting villages. The reward is quieter islands and a closer view of everyday kastom life.