Frequently asked questions
Port Vila: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Port Vila: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +31.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Port Vila: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +20.0°C, during the day — up to +26.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Port Vila: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Port Vila: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-April. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Port Vila: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, crystal water. The most popular beaches: Mele Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Port Vila: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas.
Port Vila: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. Sea urchins and jellyfish possible, swimming on guarded beaches recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Port Vila: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $169.00 (≈ 14 182 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Port Vila: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $120.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $200.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $250.00 per night, an apartment — $100.00 per night, a villa — $250.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Port Vila: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $13.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Port Vila: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $60.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Port Vila: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Mele Cascades Waterfall — Scenic cascading waterfall with natural swimming pools in a tropical forest; Hideaway Island — Island with a marine reserve and excellent snorkelling, accessible by ferry; Blue Lagoon — Natural pool with crystal clear turquoise water, ideal for swimming; Port Vila Market — Colourful market with local fruits, vegetables and handicrafts; Vanuatu Cultural Centre — Centre introducing the traditional culture and customs of the Vanuatu islands. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Port Vila: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Lap Lap — Traditional dish of taro, coconut milk and meat, baked in banana leaves; Tuluk — Taro puree with coconut milk and seafood; Fresh Fish — Catch from the Pacific Ocean, grilled or in coconut sauce; Kava — Traditional drink made from kava root with a calming effect; Tropical Fruits — Fresh mangoes, papayas, pineapples and coconuts grown on the island. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Port Vila: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Port Vila Centre — Main street with shops, market and restaurants; Mele Bay — Scenic bay with beaches, bars and restaurants; Hideaway Island — Island with a marine reserve and snorkelling. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Port Vila: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Port Vila: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Бауэрфилд Международный Аэропорт (code VLI). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Port Vila: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — VUV. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $169.00 (≈ 14 182 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Port Vila: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Port Vila: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Port Vila: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Mele Cascades — Scenic waterfall with pools 20 minutes away; Blue Lagoon — Natural pool with clear water 30 minutes away; Hideaway Island — Island with a marine reserve 15 minutes by ferry. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
