Port Vila, Vanuatu

Vila is the capital of Vanuatu, an archipelago of some 83 islands in the Coral Sea. Vanuatu is a new republic, having achieved independence from France and Britain in 1988. Before then the archipelago was better known as the New Hebrides, the name given the islands by Captain Cook. Cloaked in dense rainforest, these volcanic islands were little known until World War II, when the islands of Espiritu Santo and Efate served as Allied bases. Today increasing numbers of travelers visit Vila, drawn by its easy-going charm, superb white-sand beaches and pristine rainforest. The islands are also renowned for their excellent dive sites and for their big game fishing.

Vanuatu's visibility on the American scene increased when the CBS television series "Survivor" filmed in the archipelago. Vanuatu is also noted among anthropologist - its island of Tanna is home to the unique "John Frum" cargo cult.

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Points of Interest

  • Secret Garden
  • Mele Cascades
  • Eksasup Cultural Village
  • Outdoor Adventures
  • Aquatic Adventures
  • Traditional Village
  • National Museum
  • Le Lagon

More about Port Vila, Vanuatu Points of Interest

  • Secret Garden

    Stroll amidst magical botanical gardens, visit a reptile house, and view a collection of historical photographs. Take a peek inside reproductions of traditional huts, including a cannibal's house.

  • Mele Cascades

    An energizing hike through lush rainforest flora leads you to spectacular Cascade Falls, a 150-foot-high tumbling waterfall that boasts naturally eroded rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip.

  • Eksasup Cultural Village

    Experience the culture of Melanesia on a visit to a traditional village nestled in the rainforest. Watch hunting demonstrations, learn their customs, see sand drawings and hear tales of cannibalism.

  • Outdoor Adventures

    If it's speed you crave, try a dune buggy tour or a jet boat cruise. For a more leisurely pace, enjoy floating on "The Barge," taking a glass-bottom boat excursion, or paddling an outrigger canoe.

  • Aquatic Adventures

    The crystalline waters off Vila offer intimate views of colorful coral beds and tropical sea life. Thrill to diving excursions, which explore the dramatic reefs and the thrilling "Konada" shipwreck.

  • Traditional Village

    Leave Vila behind and explore Iarofa, a traditional island village. Warriors in ceremonial regalia greet you and teach you their customs and traditions. Thrill to a traditional fire walking ritual.

  • National Museum

    This exceptional museum showcases the natural history and culture of the Vanuatu island people. Peruse galleries of traditional artifacts, ceremonial headdresses, fine pottery and photographs.

  • Le Lagon

9 EXCURSIONS

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Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkel Safari

1.75 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 6 7 5
  • Outdoor Adventures

Discover the underwater delights of Vila Harbor from two perspectives when you climb aboard a glass-bottom boat adventure that introduces you to the area's coral gardens and marine creatures. Then, a guided snorkeling expedition along the reef at Iririki Island affords truly up-close-and-personal sea life views.

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$79.95

Average Guest Rating

Semi-Sub Reef Exploration

1.75 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 6 6 5
  • Aquatic Adventures

Experience Vanuatu's underwater world onboard the custom-built, semi-submersible Reef Explorer vessel. Take in the scenery from the viewing room below deck or dive in for a closer look.

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$89.95

Average Guest Rating

Ekasup Cultural Village

2.5 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 2 0 5
  • Eksasup Cultural Village

Discover Vanuatu's cultural heritage when you explore one of its most popular attractions, Ekasup Village, a traditional Melanesian compound. Travel into the rainforest and meet the locals. Watch hunters demonstrate their skill, marvel at a dance performance and listen to tales of cannibalism.

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Easy Activity, Includes snack

From

AUD$99.95

Average Guest Rating

Bridges of Eden

3 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 2 4 5
  • Outdoor Adventures

Your tour kicks off with a scenic drive to Eden on the River, a lush eco paradise just shy of Port Vila.

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$119.95

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Best of Vila

3 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 2 0 0
  • National Museum

Take a tour that allows you to experience the length and breadth of Port Vila, starting with a visit to
the National Museum.

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$119.95

Average Guest Rating

Port Vila Horse Trek

3 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 4 3 0
  • Outdoor Adventures

Giddyup! Thrill to a horseback riding adventure at Club Hippique, a spectacular riding facility located on a 400-acre copra plantation. Set off on a magical ride through the rainforests. When you come to the turquoise lagoon both you and your mount can take a refreshing dip followed by refreshments!

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$119.95

Average Guest Rating

Aqua Quad Safari

2 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 7 9 0
  • Outdoor Adventures
  • Aquatic Adventures

Take turns driving your own Zego Aqua Quad on a water adventure to stunning beaches and the many coves and sites in and around the Port Vila gateway.

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Moderate Activity

From

AUD$169.95

Average Guest Rating

Tranquility Island and Turtle Sanctuary

6.5 hours | Port Vila | V L I - 1 1 0
  • Outdoor Adventures
  • Traditional Village

Enjoy a taste of tranquillity as you encounter Vanuatu's majestic marine life on this one of a kind turtle sanctuary and snorkel experience. Sail by boat to the idyllic Tranquillity Island and get up close and personal with the island's Hawksbill turtles. Take a guided tour of the turtle sanctuary, before taking part in a short, guided nature walk across the island. Spend the afternoon at Jade Beach, where you can swim and snorkel from the shore, or hop on a tender to join in on a guided snorkel tour of the outer reef.

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Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From

AUD$249.95

Average Guest Rating