Capital city in Shefa, Vanuatu
Port Vila
Vanuatu's relaxed harbour capital with blue holes, diving and kava bars. Cheaper than French Polynesia but not cheap; December 2024 earthquake damage is still being repaired, so check what is open.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$1,670–2,500Comfortable, one person · VT200,000–300,000Details
- Value for money34/100Better value than 33% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goMay–OctWarmest: Feb, 28°CDetails
- Tap waterFilter or boilPort Vila's water is treated, but many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, especially after storms or earthquake damage.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel3/5English: common in tourist areasDetails
- Doctor's visit$25–58Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundMinibusWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMixed: cards and cashCards at hotels and larger restaurants; cash for minibuses, markets, kava bars and outer islands.Details
Where to stay in Port Vila
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Port Vila center | Market, restaurants, harbour and bus routes on foot |
| Nambatu–Fatumaru | Quiet hillside stays and longer rentals with views |
| Mele–Pango | Beach resorts and expats just outside town |
Apps that work in Port Vila
No ride-hailing apps work here; see the taxi note below.
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp, Messenger
- Taxis: No ride apps. Taxis and minibuses are plentiful by day; agree taxi fares first or ask your hotel.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Vanuatu.
- Mixed: cards and cash Cards at hotels and larger restaurants; cash for minibuses, markets, kava bars and outer islands. ATMs are in the center.
- Currency: Vatu (VUV). US$1 ≈ VT119.91 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ANZ, BSP and National Bank of Vanuatu ATMs in Port Vila and Luganville; few or none on outer islands.
- Tipping: Not expected and not part of local custom.
- Paying by phone: Rarely useful; cards work in town, otherwise carry vatu.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Many passports get a free tourist visa on arrival with a return ticket, booked accommodation and 6 months' passport validity; others apply online first.
- Tourist visas allow no work and can't be extended in Vanuatu.
Emergency numbers
Police 111 · Ambulance 115 · Fire 113
Plugs
Type I · 220 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Digicel and Vodafone sell prepaid SIMs at Port Vila airport and in town; coverage is weak on remote islands. eSIMs work for visitors.
Going to Port Vila solo?
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Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.