Paradise on Earth? Discover 6 Must-See Attractions in the Mystical Land of Vanuatu

Have you ever heard of Vanuatu? This island nation in the South Pacific consists of 83 stunning islands. While it may not be a well-known travel destination for tourists! Known for its safety and the warmth and friendliness of its people, Vanuatu offers a welcoming and relaxing environment for travelers.

Boasting untouched natural landscapes, Vanuatu is home to breathtakingly beautiful spots and offers a wide array of thrilling activities that take advantage of its abundant natural resources. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the South Pacific can be found here! Let us guide you through six incredible destinations in this enchanting paradise.

1. Blue Hole

The Blue Hole in Vanuatu is an enchanting natural pool that lives up to its name, with a stunning blue hue so vivid it seems as if pure blue paint has been poured into it. Its mesmerizing color is believed to come from the lapis lazuli components dissolved in the surrounding earth. Nestled deep within the jungle, the journey to this hidden gem is an adventure in itself, making visitors feel like daring explorers.

As you marvel at the Blue Hole's dazzling color, which seems to emerge from nowhere amidst the dense jungle, you’ll be filled with a sense of awe, as if stepping into a dream. The freshwater pool is home to various fish, allowing you to swim alongside these aquatic residents!

2. Mount Yasur

Located on Tanna Island, Vanuatu, Mount Yasur is celebrated as "the most accessible active volcano in the world." Visitors can drive up to the summit, followed by a short 15-minute walk to the crater. Every few minutes, roaring explosions and towering pillars of fire rise from the gaping crater, sending rocks flying—a truly breathtaking sight! Watching it during the day is impressive, but the best experience is at night.

The vibrant eruptions accompanied by the booming sounds are incredibly beautiful and deeply moving! However, due to the proximity, beware of falling ash. This one-of-a-kind experience is something only Mount Yasur can offer.

3. Millennium Cave

If you want to fully experience adventure in the great outdoors of Vanuatu, this is the place! While it may seem like just a cave exploration, you’ll climb rugged cliffs, walk through a long pitch-black cave filled with swallows and bats while wading in the river, and do stream trekking through a roaring river. This is an activity where stamina truly matters.

Surprisingly, you can also experience going downstream through the rapids without using a canoe, relying only on the buoyancy of a life jacket. It’s packed with so much excitement that you might feel unsure if you’ll make it back alive, but don’t worry—the local Vanuatu tour guide team will assist you if you’re ever in a pinch. By the end, you’ll feel a huge sense of accomplishment.

Since you’ll be in the water for a long time, make sure you’re well-prepared for the cold. The journey may be tough, but this ultimate thrilling activity will undoubtedly become a memorable part of your trip!

4. Champagne Beach

This is the most famous beach on Santo Island in Vanuatu. The name “Champagne Beach” comes from the point where seawater and spring water mix, creating an effect that sparkles like champagne. Such a romantic origin, isn’t it?

This Champagne Beach is said to be the most beautiful beach in the South Pacific. Surrounded by palm trees, its fine white sand and the strikingly clear blue sea evoke the paradise of this world.

Usually, there are very few locals around, and if you’re lucky, you might even have it all to yourself! It’s also known as an excellent diving spot, and snorkeling here allows you to see plenty of adorable, colorful fish. With tropical-style shops nearby, it’s convenient too. This is a highly recommended spot where you can relax so much that you might lose track of time.

5. Mele Cascades

Mele Cascades is a magnificent waterfall located just a 15-minute drive from Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. Surrounded by a world of vividly colored flowers and plants, visitors can enjoy a paradisiacal scenery. Beyond the waterfall lies Clem Hill, offering views of Hideaway Island.

One of the recommended activities at this site is waterfall abseiling using ropes. After learning rope techniques from a professional instructor and practicing, visitors can challenge themselves with a large waterfall descent. The mountain trail leading to the falls involves climbing slopes and crossing small streams, giving you the feeling of being a true adventurer.

Experiencing the thrill of descending a roaring waterfall is exhilarating! The water is crystal clear and beautiful, allowing for fun in the waterfall basin. Visitors can soak up plenty of negative ions in the fresh air, refreshing their mind and body from daily fatigue.

6. Luganville

Luganville is the second-largest city in Vanuatu. During World War II, it flourished as an advanced base for the U.S. military. One historical site here is the sunken SS President Coolidge, located slightly offshore. This massive ship, a luxurious ocean liner repurposed for military use, is now a popular diving spot! Visitors can marvel at the ship’s interior, inhabited by beautiful fish, and experience unique underwater scenes not seen in regular dives.

For those less confident in diving, there is U.S. military equipment in shallow waters that can also be observed. The contrast between the beautiful sea and wartime relics offers a unique historical experience. It’s a must-see destination when touring Vanuatu.

◎ Summary

What do you think? In this article, we introduced six must-visit destinations in Vanuatu. Although it might be seen as a lesser-known travel destination for many, Vanuatu offers an abundance of attractions—from the warm hospitality of the islanders and breathtaking hidden gems in the jungle to awe-inspiring volcanic craters where you can witness eruptions up close and some of the finest beaches in the South Pacific. Why not consider visiting this slice of paradise, Vanuatu, for your next adventure?