Espiritu Santo Vanuatu Travel Guide
A well-organized pre-trip routine avoids last-minute stress and aids smooth preparations.
This timeline outlines actions for a well-prepared trip to Espiritu Santo.
Research visa requirements for your nationality and apply well in advance. Your passport needs validity for at least six months beyond your stay.
Book international flights to Port Vila (VLI) and domestic flights to Santo Pekoa (SON). Flights, especially during the high season, fill quickly.
Secure popular accommodation, like dive resorts or sought-after bungalows, months in advance. Consult a travel health professional about vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
Book major tours or activities, including SS President Coolidge dives and Millennium Cave trek, which have limited availability.
Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance. Coverage includes medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation.
Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country's automobile association if renting a car.
Confirm all flights, accommodation, and tour bookings. Double-check all dates and times.
Fill all prescription medications. Stock your Personal first aid kit. Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans to avoid card holds.
Make multiple copies of essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, tickets) and store them separately. Keep digital copies on a cloud service.
International and domestic flights, popular accommodations (especially dive resorts), and specific tours (SS President Coolidge dives, Millennium Cave trek) necessitate advance booking.
Familiarize yourself with basic Bislama phrases. Learn about local customs and etiquette to express respect.
Before departure, secure your home by locking all windows and doors. Arrange pet care and plant watering if needed.
Double-check all travel documents and make sure they are readily accessible. Share your itinerary with family or friends back home.
The initial hours after arrival can be busy. This checklist aids those first steps smoothly.
Clear immigration and customs at Santo Pekoa International Airport (SON). Keep your passport, onward ticket, and visa documents ready.
Purchase a local SIM card (Digicel or TVL) for mobile data. This offers immediate connectivity for maps and communication.
Exchange some currency to Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) at the airport or a Luganville bank. Local cash is useful for taxis, minivans, and small purchases.
Arrange transport to your accommodation. This includes pre-booked transfers, taxis (confirm fare first), or local minivans.
Once settled, take time to orient yourself. Locate nearby ATMs, supermarkets, and the main Luganville market. Understand local minivan routes near your accommodation.
Prioritize getting Vatu cash. Many small shops, local markets, and transport are cash-only. Make initial purchases like bottled water and local snacks.
One of the world's largest and most accessible wreck dives, a former luxury liner turned troop transport.
Explore vast cargo holds, canons, and dive historical artifacts.
An underwater dump site of US military equipment pushed into the sea after WWII.
Snorkel or dive amongst jeeps, bulldozers, and other relics.
Natural freshwater springs with incredible turquoise water.
Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a serene setting.
Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for mobile data connection is advisable. This supports map navigation and communication in areas with limited Wi-Fi.
A smooth departure culminates in a positive trip experience.
Understand the cost aspects of your Espiritu Santo journey.
Vanuatu does not typically have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists on purchases.
Do not expect to claim VAT refunds at the airport.
