Vanuatu

Do not wear beachwear away from beaches and hotels. 

It is illegal for supermarkets to sell alcohol from midday on Saturday to 7am on Monday. However, clubs, bars and hotels may serve alcohol during these times.

Kava is a traditional drink in Vanuatu used in kava ceremonies, at kava bars (‘nakamals’) and at some hotels. Some nakamals, particularly outside of Port Vila, do not welcome women. Be wary of the effects of kava and consume it responsibly. Kava is banned from entry to the UK due to concerns about its health impacts.

Avoid all recreational drugs. Possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and a large fine.

Most people in Vanuatu will allow you to take their photograph, but you should always get permission first.

Ask your service provider if your mobile will work in Vanuatu. A 4G network is available but coverage varies across the country. You can also buy SIM cards from local phone companies Vodafone or Digicel, including at Port Vila airport.

Land ownership in Vanuatu is an important and often sensitive issue. If you travel off the beaten track, you may be trespassing unless you pay a ‘visiting fee’ to the landowner. At most beaches you will also be asked to pay an entry fee.

Same-sex relationships are legal in Vanuatu. However, showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention and is likely to offend some people.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

The tropical cyclone season in Vanuatu normally runs from November to May, but cyclones can happen throughout the year. During the cyclone season there is a greater risk of strong winds, heavy rains, flooding, landslides and road closures.

Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Organization weather reports for Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department.

Vanuatu is in an earthquake zone and is prone to significant year-round seismic and volcanic activity, with an associated risk of tsunamis. There are over 2,000 seismic events reported each year. Most events are minor, but earthquakes over 5.0 magnitude happen regularly. Make sure you understand local safety procedures for earthquakes and tsunamis.

Check Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department updates on seismic activity.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami.

In Vanuatu there are active volcanoes on the islands of:

• Ambae
• Ambrym
• Epi
• Gaua
• Lopevi
• Tanna
• Vanua Lava

Volcano alert levels can change unexpectedly, and you may not be able to access an island if a volcano is active.

Before you travel to an area with volcanoes:

• contact the Vanuatu Tourism Office for the latest advice
• make sure your travel and medical insurance covers you
• monitor local news and follow the advice of the local authorities

For current volcano alert levels, see the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department.