Table of Contents
Introduction
Vanuatu is a South Pacific island nation made up of roughly 80 islands. This tropical paradise is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, from rugged volcanoes to pristine blue waters. For those seeking adventure, Vanuatu offers thrilling and unique activities to get your adrenaline pumping. From hiking active volcanoes to world-class scuba diving, Vanuatu has something to satisfy even the most daring travelers. Keep reading for the top adventure activities and destinations in Vanuatu that you won’t want to miss on your next trip.
Mt. Yasur Volcano
One of Vanuatu’s most famous thrills is visiting the active Mt. Yasur volcano on Tanna Island. Hiking up this ash-filled volcano at night provides a front row seat to see spewing lava, explosions, and glowing magma. The hissing steam vents and billowing smoke make you feel like you’re walking on another planet. While the experience offers stunning views, take safety precautions like covering your nose and mouth. The sulfur fumes can be overwhelming at times. Going with a qualified tour guide provides an extra measure of security. Witnessing the power and beauty of an active volcano rumbling beneath your feet is an unforgettable travel experience.
Blue Holes
Another of Vanuatu’s claims to fame are its gorgeous blue holes formed by ancient limestone sinkholes and caves. These tropical oases contain the clearest aquamarine waters for magnificent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Some exceptional blue holes to visit include the Riri Blue Hole near Port Vila and the Nanda Blue Hole on Espiritu Santo Island. As you descend into these blue holes, you’ll be amazed by the diverse sea creatures like colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral gardens. With incredible visibility up to 100 feet, it’s easy to spend hours exploring these underwater havens.
Pentecost Island for Land Diving
For cultural adventure, head to Pentecost Island in May to witness the ritual land diving. This death-defying tradition sees men leaping headfirst with vines tied to their ankles to plunge close to the ground. Locals have practiced land diving for centuries, making it one of the world’s oldest extreme sports. Watching the brave divers make their jumps from handmade timber towers up to 30 meters high will have your heart racing. Visitors are welcome to witness the captivating spectacle during the 6-8 week land diving season. Don’t forget your camera to document this unique Melanesian tradition.
Espiritu Santo Island for Diving
Espiritu Santo offers some of the most pristine diving and snorkeling opportunities in the Pacific. Experience world-class scuba diving to explore shipwrecks, caves, blue holes, and coral reefs. Divers have the chance to spot sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays, and exotic fish species. There are fantastic dive sites for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly shallow reefs and advanced dives like President Coolidge wreck penetration. With so many incredible underwater sights, it’s easy to spend days discovering Espiritu Santo’s diverse marine life.
Trekking Through Forests
Take your Vanuatu adventures overland by trekking through lush rainforests and tropical landscapes. Guided day hikes will bring you past cascading waterfalls, bubbling volcanic springs, historic WWII sites, and villages where you can meet the native Ni-Van people. Keep your eyes peeled for the extensive flora and fauna, like colorful orchids, giant ferns and majestic hardwood trees. You may even spot wildlife like flying foxes, wild pigs or rare birds. Trekking through Vanuatu’s natural beauty gives you a great appreciation of the islands’ biodiversity.
Rappelling down Waterfalls
One way to explore Vanuatu’s tropical rainforests is by rappelling or abseiling down roaring waterfalls. Guided canyon tours will take experienced rappellers through lush canyons near Port Vila using ropes, harnesses and other technical gear. You’ll descend down rushing waterfalls between the canyon cliffs to access crystal clear pools at the base. With the water spraying in your face and your heart pumping, it’s a full day of non-stop adrenaline. Offering vistas you can’t see any other way, waterfall rappelling is perfect for daring adventurers.
River Kayaking
For remote island exploration, join a guided kayaking adventure. You’ll paddle down swift rivers and over rapids while surrounded by the lush jungle scenery. Kayaking is also a great way to visit traditional villages along the rivers. Some companies even offer multi-day kayak journeys where you camp along the way under a starry night sky. With help from expert guides, beginners can also master kayaking Vanuatu’s beautiful blue waters and rivers. Kayaking gives you a unique perspective to access Vanuatu’s hidden corners.
Surfing
No trip to Vanuatu is complete without hanging ten on the epic waves. Regarded as one of the world’s best surfing destinations, you’ll find expert breaks for longboarders and shortboarders alike. The consistent reef breaks, sandy bottoms, and point breaks provide plenty of variety. Beginners can take lessons at popular spots like Pango and Erakor Lagoon near Port Vila. More advanced surfers should head to Tanna or Erromango island for legendary breaks like Red Bull Wave and McDonald’s Point. With waves for all levels and warm water year-round, Vanuatu is a surfing paradise.
Ziplining
For bird’s eye views of Vanuatu’s scenery, zip lining is a thrilling choice. Glide through the rainforest canopy on cables strung between platforms in trees. As you zip through the trees, you’ll get unique panoramic perspectives of beaches, rivers, waterfalls and more. With the wind against your face as you speed down cables up to 300 meters long, it’s an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the islands. Some zipline tours even include skybridges and rappelling. Whether viewing Vanuatu’s beauty at sunrise or sunset, ziplining offers a memorable experience.
Conclusion
From active volcanoes to world-class diving, Vanuatu offers limitless adventures for adrenaline junkies of all levels. You can hike through jungles, rappel down waterfalls, brave land diving, surf legendary breaks or kayak into the remote wilderness. Around every corner waits another opportunity to dive into Vanuatu’s natural splendors and cultural sights. With this list of top adventure ideas, start planning your action-packed trip to discover the thrills of Vanuatu’s stunning islands. Just don’t forget your camera to document the exciting experiences waiting for you.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Vanuatu?
The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry season from May to October when temperatures are cooler and there’s less rain.
Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Vanuatu?
No vaccinations are required for Vanuatu, but it’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines like tetanus. Taking malaria medication is advised.
What is the currency used in Vanuatu?
The currency in Vanuatu is the Vatu (VUV). Be sure to exchange money upon arrival as credit cards are not widely accepted.
Is Vanuatu safe for tourists?
Yes, Vanuatu is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions like avoiding deserted areas at night. Violent crime is rare.
What languages are spoken in Vanuatu?
The main languages in Vanuatu are English, French and Bislama. Learning a few Bislama words will help greatly when interacting with locals.