Port-Vila

Vanuatu

Port-Vila is the capital of Vanuatu. It is on the island of Efate in the province of Shefa.

Port-Vila Harbour Port Vila, Vanuatu's capital, is a common starting point for tourists and divers exploring various islands, beaches and diving spots in Vanuatu. The many natural reefs and shipwrecks scattered around the country are popular with divers.

Port Vila sustained a limited amount of damage during Cyclone Pam, a March 14, 2015 storm which spared the island of Espiritu Santo while wreaking severe destruction on many outer islands. While most travel venues in the capital should be back to normal operation, some inbound flights (as of Jan 2016) remain unavailable to unrelated infrastructure problems.

Port-Vila Cemetery

  • National Museum of Vanuatu. Specializes its exhibits relating to the culture and history of Vanuatu.
  • Evergreen Cascades Waterfall. Stands at a height of 35 metres and is famous for its natural pools that make it perfect spots for swimming. There are independent guided tours that lead to the cascades.
  • Mele Island. A small resort islet known as Hideaway Island. Offers snorkeling and glass bottom boat tours. It is 15 minutes boat access from the capital. There is the world's first underwater post office, opened in 2003.

National Museum of Vanuatu. Specializes its exhibits relating to the culture and history of Vanuatu.

Evergreen Cascades Waterfall. Stands at a height of 35 metres and is famous for its natural pools that make it perfect spots for swimming. There are independent guided tours that lead to the cascades.

Mele Island. A small resort islet known as Hideaway Island. Offers snorkeling and glass bottom boat tours. It is 15 minutes boat access from the capital. There is the world's first underwater post office, opened in 2003.

There are markets selling a variety of local goods such as fruit and vegetables. They close on Sundays unless there is a cruise ship in port.

Duty free alcohol and cigarettes are cheap in Port Vila. Buy your duty free before going to the airport as the airport duty free prices are slightly higher and the range not as great. Port Vila is a duty free zone for tourists.

Alcohol is reasonably expensive in Port Vila. Expect to pay between 300VT and 500VT for a local beer or between 400VT and 600VT for imported beers.