A Snapshot of Vanuatu

28 March 2016
Read Time: 1.6 mins

Vanuatu is known for its swaying palms and impeccable beaches but this island nation boasts much more than sun and sand. An archipelago of over 80 islands, Vanuatu is a truly beautiful tropical destination home to dense jungle terrain, volcanic landscapes and cascading waterfalls.

The heavenly islands are brimming with natural wonders and adventure activities are a popular pastime, from scuba diving or snorkelling to zip-lining through the rugged rainforest. Savour a taste of laidback island life and discover all Vanuatu has to offer.

Efate

Vanuatu Hoffman in action for the Jets

The most popular island, Efate is where you will find Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila. This compact town offers superb harbour views with a collection of waterfront restaurants and cafes. Port Vila is often touted as the gourmet capital of the South Pacific, so be sure to sample flavourful native fare. The Port Vila Markets offer a bounty of souvenirs, many handmade by the locals, or you could enjoy the island’s duty-free shopping.

Alongside its beautiful beaches, Efate is blessed with verdant rainforest and lush vegetation. The Mele Cascades are a dazzling natural treasure, where tumbling waterfalls meet to create stunning turquoise pools. Go for a dip in the cool waters or simply enjoy the sensational scenery.  The wonderful surrounds also make it perfect for adventure activities, including zorbing, zip-lining, buggy rides or horse riding.

Espiritu Santo

Vanuatu Hoffman in action for the Jets

A short, 50-minute flight from Port Vila will have you landing on the pristine shores of Espiritu Santo. Champagne Beach is indeed a highlight with its unspoilt waters and surprisingly stark white sand. Espiritu Santo is also home to the largest wreck dive in the world – the SS President Coolidge. Just a few metres off the beach, this 22,000-tonne luxury liner converted to a troop ship, sank fully laden during the war. Now it is a fascinating site for both novice and experienced divers.


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Tanna

Vanuatu Hoffman in action for the Jets

The island of Tanna is famous for Mount Yasur, the world’s most accessible active volcano. Just a 35-minute flight from Port Vila, the island offers a wide range of adventure and cultural activities for visitors. Just a short walk to the rim of Mount Yasur will have you witnessing the incredible lively lava eruptions that occur every few minutes. You can also take the time to visit one of the traditional villages for a taste of local life.

Pentecost

Vanuatu Hoffman in action for the Jets

One of Vanuatu’s smallest islands, Pentecost is perfect for a day trip. Visit the spectacular Waterfall Falls, explore underground caves or climb to the top of Mt Vetmar for breathtaking views. You can also take a tour of the local villages or for a truly heart pounding experience, try land diving.


Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest Vanuatu deals.


Jessica Holmes

A foodie at heart, I love to travel to the USA and explore their expansive culinary culture. You’ll typically find me satisfying my sweet tooth in an American candy store, sampling macarons in a quaint New York patisserie or stocking up on American baking supplies.