Vanuatu Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Vanuatu.

Vanuatu is generally a safe destination for travelers.

• Infrastructure and roads in Port Vila and the surrounding area were damaged during the December 2024 earthquake, with repairs in progress.

Global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East

Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.

Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel:

• check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through
• check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator
• review your travel insurance policy for coverage
• monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Vanuatu

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Vanuatu, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

The risk of crime is generally low but there have been:

• burglaries accompanied by violence
• some instances of street crime and attacks on foreign nationals, including on tourists at nightclubs and bars in Port Vila

Take sensible precautions as you would in the UK.

Laws and cultural differences

You should respect local customs, which are strictly observed, and religious sensitivities.

Dress code

Do not wear beachwear away from beaches and hotels.

Alcohol laws and bans

It is illegal for supermarkets to sell alcohol from midday on Saturday to 7am on Monday. However, clubs, bars and hotels may serve alcohol during these times.

Kava drinking ceremonies

Kava is a traditional drink in Vanuatu used in kava ceremonies, at kava bars (‘nakamals’) and at some hotels. Some nakamals, particularly outside of Port Vila, do not welcome women. Be wary of the effects of kava and consume it responsibly. Kava is banned from entry to the UK due to concerns about its health impacts.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Avoid all recreational drugs. Possession of even small quantities can lead to imprisonment and a large fine.

Using cameras

Most people in Vanuatu will allow you to take their photograph, but you should always get permission first.

Mobile phone coverage

Ask your service provider if your mobile will work in Vanuatu. A 4G network is available but coverage varies across the country. You can also buy SIM cards from local phone companies Vodafone or Digicel, including at Port Vila airport.

Visiting fees

Land ownership in Vanuatu is an important and often sensitive issue. If you travel off the beaten track, you may be trespassing unless you pay a ‘visiting fee’ to the landowner. At most beaches you will also be asked to pay an entry fee.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Vanuatu. However, showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention and is likely to offend some people.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Risk level

Vanuatu - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Vanuatu.

Crime

Violent crime in Vanuatu is rare, but petty crime occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents are secure at all times.

Home break-ins occur, even when the occupants are present. Lock your doors and windows at night and when you are not home.

Criminal activity generally increases in the weeks leading up to holidays.

Exercise caution when attending bars and clubs in Port-Vila as tourists have been the target of attacks.

Women’s safety

Women may be subject to sexual harassment or sexual assault, more so if travelling alone at night. Women should avoid travelling alone, particularly on public transportation and in isolated locations and beaches.

Advice for women travellers

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

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