£1 VUV 160
Today
2:53 pm
+11h from you
Weather in Vanuatu
Vanuatu
31°
Thunderstorm
Wed
27
31
Thu
27
31
Fri
27
30
Sat
27
31
Sun
28
31
SPF level in Vanuatu
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Vanuatu
Tipping in Vanuatu
Tipping is not a widespread practice in Vanuatu, and it is generally not expected. However, it is becoming increasingly common in tourist-oriented establishments, especially with the rising number of international visitors. While not obligatory, a small tip for good service is always appreciated.
Restaurant
5-10% for exceptional service
Bar/Café
Small change or rounding up the bill for good service
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated, but not required
Hotel Porter
500-1000 VUV per service (~£3-£6)
Hotel Housekeeper
500-1000 VUV per day (~£3-£6), left at the end of the stay
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour cost for excellent service
Safety in Vanuatu
Tips for British travellers
Vanuatu is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not wear swimwear away from beaches and hotels as it is culturally inappropriate.
Be aware that supermarkets cannot sell alcohol from midday Saturday to 7am Monday, though bars and hotels may.
Be prepared to pay a fee to enter most beaches, as land ownership is a sensitive issue.
Always ask permission before taking someone's photograph to respect local customs.
Exercise caution in bars and nightclubs in Port Vila as there have been instances of attacks on tourists.
Bonus tips:
Be wary of the effects of kava and drink it responsibly, as some kava bars do not welcome women.
Swimming and diving can be dangerous due to strong currents, sharks, and variable safety standards, so use licensed operators.
Driving in Vanuatu
A UK driving license is valid for tourists for up to 30 days. An International Driving Permit is recommended if staying longer.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0%
Remember: Vanuatu drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
22222
Ambulance
22222
Fire
22222
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Vanuatu
Voltage
220V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type I
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Vanuatu is 220V, which is similar to the UK (230V). The frequency is 50Hz, which is the same as the UK. Vanuatu uses Type I plugs. UK travelers will need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit card acceptance is limited, especially outside of Port Vila and Luganville. Major hotels, resorts, and some restaurants in tourist areas will accept cards. It is advisable to carry cash, particularly when visiting smaller islands or rural areas.
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Vanuatu
ATMs are available in Port Vila and Luganville, but can be scarce elsewhere. It is advisable to withdraw sufficient cash in these main towns before travelling to more remote areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are generally reliable in the main cities. Ensure you have a 4-digit PIN, as some ATMs may not accept longer PINs. Check for any fees charged by the local bank.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be very high in Vanuatu. Contact your mobile provider before travelling to understand the costs. EU roaming rules no longer apply post-Brexit, so standard international roaming rates will apply.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 5000 VUV (~£30)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Digicel Vanuatu, Telecom Vanuatu Limited (TVL)
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in hotels, resorts, cafes and restaurants in Port Vila and Luganville. Coverage outside these main centres is limited.
Average speed
5 Mbps
While WiFi is available, speeds and reliability can vary. Purchasing a local SIM card for data access may provide a more consistent connection, especially if travelling outside of major towns.
Health & vaccinations in Vanuatu
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as healthcare facilities in Vanuatu may be limited, especially outside of Port Vila. Check your policy covers adventure activities if you plan to participate in them.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention before travelling to Vanuatu. Dengue fever and Zika virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Drink bottled water, and ensure food is properly prepared to avoid stomach upsets. Medical facilities are limited, so travel insurance is essential.
Calling Vanuatu
Country code
+678
To call Vanuatu from the UK, dial 00 678 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Port Vila from the UK, you would dial 00 678 23100.
The country code for Vanuatu is 678. When calling from abroad, dial your international exit code (00 in the UK), then 678, followed by the local number.
UK Embassy in Vanuatu
British High Commission Port Vila
Lolam House, Lini Highway, Port Vila, Vanuatu
Airport in Vanuatu
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.