Things to Do in Espiritu Santo. Activities, Experiences, Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

Espiritu Santo has numerous outdoor adventures, making the most of its diverse landscapes.

Trekking Paths

Millennium Cave Trek

A full-day, challenging adventure. It involves a jungle trek through dense rainforest, multiple river crossings (some calling for swimming), navigating a dark cave with a headlamp, and canyoning down a waterfall. This trek asks for a high level of fitness and is always guided by local villagers, who possess knowledge of the terrain and safety. Book this tour through operators in Luganville or GetYourGuide.

Mount Tabwemasana Trek

A multi-day, arduous climb to Vanuatu's highest peak. This trek asks for a very high level of fitness, an experienced local guide, and proper permits arranged in advance. It has an experience into truly untouched wilderness.

Coastal Walks

Shorter, easier walks are possible along beautiful beaches like Champagne Beach or around the grounds of various resort properties. These present gentle exercise and scenic views.

Water & Adrenaline

Diving: Espiritu Santo features world-class diving, specifically at the SS President Coolidge and Million Dollar Point. Numerous dive operators in Luganville cater to all levels, from introductory dives to technical wreck diving. The marine life and historical artifacts make these dives unique.
Snorkeling: Excellent snorkeling opportunities exist at Million Dollar Point (among the WWII relics), Bokissa Island, Oyster Island, and around many coastal resorts. A good quality Full face snorkel mask can enhance visibility and comfort.
Kayaking/SUP: Available for rent at some blue holes and coastal resorts. These present a peaceful way to explore the clear waters and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Consider a Stand-up paddleboard for added fun.
Swimming: Enjoy swimming in the incredibly clear, refreshing waters of the blue holes (Matevulu, Nanda) and at countless pristine beaches around the island.

Adventure Sports

Canyoning forms an integral part of the Millennium Cave trek, delivering an exhilarating way to descend through natural rock formations and waterfalls.
Ziplining: The Vanuatu Jungle Zipline has a thrilling canopy experience, soaring above the rainforest.

Wildlife Encounters

Bird Watching: Opportunities for bird watching exist in the island's rainforests, specifically on guided treks. Keep an eye out for endemic species.
Marine Life: The underwater world around Espiritu Santo teems with life, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

Cycling

Cycling routes and mountain biking: Dedicated cycling infrastructure is limited.
Some unsealed roads present mountain biking challenges.
Caution is wise due to varying road conditions.
Rental bicycles are uncommon outside of specific resorts.

Cycling Advisory

Always use caution for cycling routes. Road conditions vary and can present challenges. Consider local conditions before embarking on a bike ride.

Cultural Connections

Engage deeply with Espiritu Santo's rich heritage.

Workshops & Ceremonies

Workshops and classes: Formal workshops for tourists are limited. Some cultural village tours may deliver informal demonstrations of traditional crafts (e.g., weaving baskets, carving wooden figures) or food preparation methods, like making Laplap.
Cultural performances and traditional ceremonies: Some resorts or dedicated cultural villages (e.g., Leweton Cultural Village) present performances of traditional Kastom dances and music. These provide a window into the island's rich heritage.
Witnessing a local kava ceremony at a Nakamal is a profound and common cultural experience, presenting an unique insight into local social life.

Community & Language

Community-based Tourism

A few villages present homestays or guided tours that directly benefit the local community. Inquire through reputable local tour operators for ethically run options that directly return revenue to the people preserving their traditions and land.

Language Learning

While formal language classes are not readily available, learning a few basic Bislama phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals and foster positive interactions.

Cultural Festivals

Occasional local village festivals or national celebrations, like Independence Day (July 30th), present insights into Ni-Vanuatu culture. These are not specifically tourist-oriented but are rewarding if your visit coincides.

Support Local

Choose community-based tourism initiatives for direct support to local traditions and livelihoods.

Learn a Phrase

A few basic Bislama phrases enhance interactions with locals.

Attend Festivals

Seek out local village festivals for authentic cultural insights.

Relaxation & Serenity

Espiritu Santo has opportunities for relaxation amid its natural beauty.

Wellness Offerings

Spa and wellness services: These appear mainly at higher-end resorts. They typically present massages and basic spa treatments. Standalone, large wellness centers are not common on the island.
Hot springs and natural therapy options: Espiritu Santo does not feature known natural hot springs. Traditional healing practices (bush medicine) are still practiced by local healers, but they are not widely available or advertised for tourists.
Yoga and meditation retreats: These are very limited. Some eco-lodges might present private yoga sessions by arrangement, but dedicated retreats are not a feature of the island's tourism.

Local Leisure

Beach & Pool Clubs

Resorts typically hold their own swimming pools and private beach access for guests. Public beach clubs, in the Western sense, are not a feature on Espiritu Santo.

Traditional Healing

Local healers continue to practice traditional medicine using local plants, but these services are generally for local communities and not part of the tourist offering.

Wellness Considerations

Resort Spas

For spa and wellness services, look to the higher-end resorts which provide massages and basic treatments.

Natural Treatments

Natural hot springs are not a feature; traditional healing practices are for locals mainly.

Yoga Sessions

Dedicated yoga retreats are uncommon; some eco-lodges might arrange private sessions.

Evening & Ambiance

Discover the island's after-dark rhythms and social spots.

Performance & Music

Live music venues are very limited.
Some resorts might host live local music performances on certain evenings, often featuring traditional Ni-Vanuatu music.
No formal theater or performance spaces exist. Cultural performances are mainly tourist-oriented shows within resorts or cultural villages.

Social Hubs

Bar Districts

The main street of Luganville holds a few simple bars where locals gather. Kava Nakamals represent the most common evening social gathering points, presenting an unique local experience that differs significantly from a traditional pub.

Late-Night Entertainment

Mainly limited to visiting local Nakamals for kava or quiet evenings at your resort. The island largely goes to sleep early.

Luganville Bars

Few simple bars exist on Luganville's main street.
Locals gather here for evening socializing.

Kava Nakamals

Most common evening social gathering point.
Present an unique local experience.
Differs significantly from a traditional pub.
Offers a relaxing, numbing effect.

Early Evenings

Late-night entertainment is very limited.
Island largely goes to sleep early.
Quiet evenings at your resort are common.

Kava Consumption Advisory

Kava's Nature

Kava is a traditional beverage, not alcohol.
Its effects differ from alcoholic drinks.
Observe local customs and consume responsibly.

Safety Precaution

Avoid driving any vehicle after kava consumption.
Arrange alternative transport if needed.
Your safety and others' safety is important.

Evening Exploration

For an authentic evening, consider visiting a local nakamal. This cultural experience has an unique insight into local social life and traditions. Always respect local customs when visiting.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Marketplaces & Artisans

Traditional markets and bazaars: The Luganville Market serves as the main hub for fresh produce, local crafts, and cooked food. It operates daily, with peak activity on Friday and Saturday mornings. This is a lively and colorful place to visit.
Artisan workshops and crafts: Opportunities to buy local handicrafts include woven baskets, wooden carvings (like Tamtams or slit drums), shell jewelry, and traditional fabrics. You can find these at the Luganville Market, some cultural villages, or occasionally directly from artisans.

Take-Home Memories & Ethics

Souvenir recommendations: Authentic items include woven baskets and mats, small wooden carvings, shell jewelry, or traditional fabrics. Kava bowls, used for drinking kava, also make unique souvenirs. "Kastom" art, reflecting traditional designs and beliefs, has another option.
Ethical shopping guidelines: Purchase directly from local artisans or community cooperatives to ensure fair trade practices and that your money directly benefits the local economy. Be mindful of purchasing items made from protected species, like certain types of shells or coral, though these are unlikely to be sold legally.

Things to Do in Espiritu Santo