Frequently Asked Questions
Tipping is not customary in Vanuatu, and official visitor advice is that you do not need to tip or bargain. A sincere tankyu tumas is the usual thanks. A small tip at a tourist restaurant or resort is optional, not expected. Avoid tipping in village or kastom settings, where it can sit awkwardly with local custom.
Carry Vatu in small notes, greet people, and allow extra time for minibuses, boats and domestic flights. Dress modestly in town and villages, ask before photos, and confirm the next day's weather and transfers with your host. Buy water and supplies in Vila or Luganville before outer islands. A little island patience prevents most frustration.
You must declare all food, plants and animal products on arrival. Commercially packaged snacks are often allowed after inspection, but fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, honey and seeds are usually restricted, and meat, dairy and seafood generally need permits. Undeclared items can be seized, so check current rules at https://biosecurity.gov.vu before you pack.
In Bislama, thank you is tankyu, and thank you very much is tank yu tumas or tankyu tumas. It is the phrase visitors use most, in markets, villages and taxis. Pair it with a smile; it is more useful here than tipping. You will hear it often in return.
Port Vila's town supply is treated and generally safe to drink. If you have a sensitive stomach, choose bottled water, and do the same on outer islands where supplies are limited. Buy bottles in Port Vila or Luganville before you fly or boat further. Carry more than you think you need in the heat.
The official currency is the Vatu (VT). Cards work in many larger businesses in Port Vila and Luganville, but cash in Vatu is essential for markets, taxis, village fees and outer islands. Australian dollars are sometimes taken in tourist Vila, with change given in Vatu, so do not rely on that. Withdraw or exchange enough before you leave town.
Vanuatu has prohibited electronic nicotine and non-nicotine delivery systems and heated tobacco products under Council of Ministers Decision 064. Visitors should not bring vapes or e-liquids into the country. Confirm current rules with Vanuatu Customs before you travel, as enforcement and import advice can be updated. Leave devices at home.
Vanuatu is a conservative Christian country that welcomes visitors, and same-sex travellers visit without issue. Public displays of affection, by any couple, can attract attention, especially in villages, and there is no developed gay scene. Be respectful of local culture and you will be received as a guest. Discretion is courtesy here, not a warning off.
Australian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 120 days, along with many other nationalities including New Zealand, the EU and the USA. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your stay, and you may be asked for an onward or return ticket. Others must apply in advance, and the visa-on-request fee is 5,150 VT. Confirm the current exempt list at https://immigration.gov.vu/visa-exempted-countries/ before you fly.