Port Vila is the perfect base for a holiday in Vanuatu. With a lagoon on one side, and a tropical harbour on the other, it is a stone’s throw away from excellent snorkelling spots, relaxing beaches, or adrenalin-pumping ziplines and hikes.

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Action Packed Efate

 

Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu and is situated on the island of Efate. It's home to a range of resorts and experiences, whether it be ziplining, snorkelling, savouring a fresh seafood dinner, kayaking in the lagoon, swinging into the blue lagoon or simply kicking back.

The island of Efate has a rugged coastline and rolling verdant countryside, fast flowing rivers, cascading waterfalls, isolated sandy bays and lagoons.

There are lots of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture visiting a cultural show, watching a fire dancing show at the beach bars, sampling fresh fruit at the Mama’s markets or souvenir shopping at the handicraft markets.

 

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Planning a Trip to Port Vila and Efate

A long weekend in Efate

A family holiday in Port Vila

Action-packed Efate

What to do in Port Vila and Efate

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  • nature
  • wellness
  • adventure
  • cruising & sailing
  • romance
  • family
  • food & drink
  • culture

Where to stay in Efate

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Highlights of Port Vila and Efate

Accommodation and Tours

Events and Festivals

Getting There

Cultural Information

Map

Twenty Must Do Experiences in Vanuatu

Prepare for an unforgettable Vanuatu adventure. With such a diverse offering, you're in for a 'relaxing adventure' like no other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Efate is associated with Port Vila, the harbour, and being Vanuatu's easy first island. It has a round-island road, a mix of resorts and town, and day trips that do not need a domestic flight. For many visitors, this is the Vanuatu they meet first.
Leave town for at least one full day on the island road: Mele Cascades, a beach, or a harbour and village outing all show a different Efate from the waterfront. If you have another day, add a boat to Lelepa or the north-coast islands. The point is to see more than the airport-to-hotel corridor.
Efate has the capital, the main international airport, and the most visitor services in the country. Neighbouring islands are quieter, more customary and less supplied. You can eat out, hire a car and book a tour here in a way that is much harder on Epi or the Shepherds.
Efate is the best island for first-timers, families and anyone with limited time. Couples and independent travellers use it as a comfortable base, then add Santo or Tanna if they want more adventure. If you only want remote kastom, you may not need long here.