Explore
Vanuatu respectfully with these essential do’s and don’ts. Learn
key cultural etiquette, kastom customs, and safety tips to navigate
villages, beaches, and local communities confidently and responsibly.
• Do greet people politely — a warm smile and “Halo” (hello) are appreciated everywhere.
• Do ask permission before entering villages, beaches, or customary land.
• Do dress modestly, especially in rural or traditional communities.
• Do respect local kastom (custom/tradition), which varies by island and village.
• Do remove hats when speaking with elders — wearing one can be seen as disrespectful.
• Do support local markets by buying produce, handicrafts, and handmade carvings.
• Do try traditional dishes such as lap lap, coconut crab, and local fish.
• Do use both hands when giving or receiving items.
• Do take off shoes before entering homes or community buildings if others do.
• Do keep Sundays peaceful — many villages treat it as a rest and worship day.
• Do hire local guides for village visits, volcano trips, and cultural experiences.
• Don’t wander into villages without asking for permission at the entrance.
• Don’t wear swimwear away from beaches or resort areas.
• Don’t touch people’s heads, including children — it’s culturally sensitive.
• Don’t take photos of people, ceremonies, or villages unless invited.
• Don’t raise your voice — loudness is seen as aggressive.
• Don’t use drones in villages or cultural sites without permission.
• Don’t show public affection in conservative areas.
• Don’t barter aggressively — polite negotiation is fine, but respect is essential.
• Don’t litter — Vanuatu’s natural environment is deeply valued.
• Don’t step over mats or possessions inside homes or meeting spaces.
• Don’t assume kastom is the same everywhere — traditions differ island to island.
• Kastom governs daily life, from ceremonies to land ownership — observe and ask respectfully.
• Family and community are central; elders hold strong authority.
• Village chiefs (often called jifs) are highly respected — follow their guidance.
• Ceremonies such as dancing, yam harvest festivals, and rites of passage are deeply meaningful.
• Christianity blends with traditional beliefs, shaping modern culture.
• Music and dance express identity, especially in cultural shows and village gatherings.
• Modesty is important, especially for women in rural areas.
• Storytelling is a treasured art — listen without interrupting.
• Gift-giving is appreciated; small, practical items work best.
• Respect personal space — avoid overly direct or fast-paced behaviour.
• Humility and politeness are highly valued.
• Carry cash, as ATMs are limited outside Port Vila and Luganville.
• Tap water is safe in main towns but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.
• Taxi fares are fixed in Port Vila; in other areas, agree a price before boarding.
• Public transport is informal — minibus numbers indicate general routes.
• Domestic flights are essential for island-hopping — book early.
• Expect slower travel times, especially on smaller islands with unpaved roads.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environments.
• Mosquito repellent is necessary, particularly near the coast and bushland.
• Cyclone season runs from November to April — plan accordingly.
• Power outages can occur; bring a power bank.
• Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for the humid climate.
• Mount Yasur on Tanna is one of the world’s most accessible live volcanoes — visit with a local guide.
• Pentecost Island is home to the famous land-diving ritual (nagol) — observe respectfully.
• The Blue Holes of Espiritu Santo offer crystal-clear freshwater swimming.
• Hideaway Island has the world’s only underwater post office.
• Local kava bars provide a traditional drink — start with a small amount; it’s strong.
• Tanna’s villages offer immersive kastom experiences — go with a cultural guide.
• Champagne Beach is perfect for calm water and soft white sand.
• Port Vila markets are excellent for fresh fruit, spices, and meals cooked by locals.
• Snorkelling off Efate and Santo reveals colourful coral and tropical fish.
• Look for ni-Vanuatu handicrafts like wood carvings and woven mats — each tells a cultural story.
• Vanuatu is generally safe, but petty theft can occur in urban areas — keep valuables secure.
• Avoid walking alone at night in Port Vila or Luganville.
• Drug laws are strict, with severe penalties for possession.
• Alcohol laws vary — some villages have restrictions or alcohol bans.
• Stay away from cliffs, unstable rocks, and remote trails without a guide.
• Observe volcano safety rules — even Mt Yasur can erupt unexpectedly.
• Swimming safety varies — check for strong currents and sharp coral.
• Wild dogs roam some areas — avoid approaching them.
• Emergency number: 911 (coverage varies).
• Respect private and kastom land — trespassing can cause community conflict.
• Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential.
• Bislama, English, and French are the main languages — Bislama works everywhere.
• Speak calmly and politely — courtesy is part of ni-Vanuatu culture.
• Address chiefs respectfully, using titles when appropriate.
• Always ask permission before taking photos or entering buildings.
• Avoid interrupting conversations — wait patiently to speak.
• Humour and friendliness are great for building rapport.
• Mobile coverage is good in Port Vila and Santo but limited elsewhere.
• Wi-Fi is available in hotels but slow in rural areas.
• Do not rush interactions — relationships come before efficiency.
• Compliments about villages, gardens, or handicrafts are appreciated.
• Learn simple Bislama phrases like “Tank yu tumas” (thank you very much).