Fiji: And Why You Should Go To Vanuatu Instead

Full of culture, beauty and wonder, these archipelagos are gorgeously breathtaking locations to fly away to. Whether you’re looking to max out on relaxation, family fun, adventure or nature, these islands have it all. However, Vanuatu boasts shorter queues and less crowded attractions all year round as opposed to the iconic islands of Fiji. This article shines a light on the alternative location and shows off everything it has to boast about. From its wonderful culture, amazing blue holes and top-rated beaches, Vanuatu is a rising star in regard to relaxation locations.

So, why Vanuatu? 🇻🇺🏖️

Located 800 kilometres west of Fiji and nearly 1800 kilometres east of Australia, Vanuatu is a breathtakingly gorgeous archipelago made up of 80 islands that are bursting with nature and stunning landscapes.
Whilst Fiji, too, has all of this natural beauty, Vanuatu is untouched and sees fewer visitors to its islands each year, meaning that the quality of everything preserved is second to none. In addition to this, visiting and touring landmarks is a much easier and stress-free process, given the crowds of tourists are much smaller throughout the year. Enjoy the best of both here, with Vanuatu being the perfect place for adventure – with a large slice of relaxation on the side.

Where to visit in Vanuatu? 👀

Port Villa - Kickstart your trip to paradise in Vanuatu by visiting Port Villa, the centre of the action on the island of Efate. This location is the pinnacle of relaxation, with abundant sandy beaches, lagoons and beach bars to enjoy. From days in the sun to an afternoon cocktail or two to rehydrate to exploring the beautiful reefs beneath the surface when participating in a snorkelling expedition. Put your walking boots on and take a trip to the beautiful Mele Cascades, just 10 kilometres from Port Villa. A series of clear forest pools and waterfalls that may require some kinging and slippery climbing to get to but is well worth the trip! Cool down after a day in the rays in one of the clear water pools.
Pentecost Island - Calling all thrill-seekers! Fancy visiting the birthplace of bungee jumping? Take a trip to the place of origin, Pentecost Island. A mountainous isle to the north of Efate offering a contrastingly different feel compared to the island of Port Villa. Enjoy the more traditional and culturally rich islands of this nation when visiting and embrace your inner adrenaline with some land diving. Enjoy treks through some of the most glorious jungles situated in this location and take part in the village celebrations where the real adventure begins – sampling the local kava.

Top things to do in Vanuata! 👏

Visit top beaches 🌴- Vanuatu is not short of sun, sea or sand and boasts a gorgeous plethora of beaches ready for guests to kick back and relax on. Vanuatu has some celebrated spots, especially popular with tourists. One of them is Champagne beach on Espiritu Santo. This is a brilliant beach for taking a serene walk along the white sand, enjoy a relaxing swim or get to know the locals.
Relax on the river float 🥽 - Espiritu Santo is the popular Mount Hope river float tour in which tourists can slowly make their way down the river and bask in the serene surroundings. Eventually, guess arrive at a waterfall that is both relaxing to listen to and to lay under.
Volcano tour 🌋- Fancy getting up close and personal with one of the world’s most accessible active volcanos? Take a trip to Mount Yasur and experience the continuous eruption of lava rocks and ash in person.
Blue holes 🏖️ - The Matevulu Blue Hole on Espiritu Santo is exactly what it is called. A gorgeous hole of a breathtaking shade of blue body of water. From the amazing water that forms as a result of a natural filtering effect of limestone to the gorgeous plants and shrubbery that are illuminated as a result of, this is a spot not to miss.

Starting from Skratch? Here are a few tips to get you started:

https://stage.virginaustralia.io/inspiration/au/travel-tips/fiji-vs-vanuatu-%E2%80%93-which-paradise-should-you-pick

https://metro.co.uk/2018/05/13/13-reasons-why-vanuatu-should-be-your-next-holiday-destination-7483475/

https://travel2next.com/vanuatu/

Vanuatu- Facts before you go

Currency

💸 The Vatu (VT)

Time Zone

⏰ Vanuatu Standard Time ((GMT+11)

Tipping

💰 Tipping is not expected in Vanuatu, nor is it customary

Known For

🌊 Untouched waters

🦐 Fresh seafood

🍫 Award-winning chocolate

Share this post

Imogen Kemp
August 30, 2023

More like this