Vanuatu is a stunning South Pacific archipelago of 83 volcanic islands offering pristine beaches, world-class diving, active volcanoes, and authentic Melanesian culture. From the bustling capital Port Vila to the remote outer islands, Vanuatu combines adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
- Public
- Minibuses (marked 'B' on license plates) are the main public transport in Port Vila and Luganville. Frequent during daytime, rare at night. No app or schedule — flag them on the roadside.
- Taxi
- Available throughout Port Vila and Luganville. No meters — always agree price before boarding. Reliable but negotiate firmly for fair prices.
- Rental
- Car rental is the best way to explore Efate's ring road and Espiritu Santo. 4WD recommended for outer island roads after rain.
- Walking
- Port Vila's waterfront area is compact and walkable. Beyond the center, distances are too large for comfortable walking in tropical heat.
Transport at a glance
Airport transfers
Getting from the airport to your accommodation.
- Taxi
- Taxi - 1,400-2,500 VT ($12-21)
- Shuttle
- Minibus - 150-300 VT ($1.30-2.60)
- Bus
- Hotel shuttle - often included or 900-1,500 VT ($8-13)
Local transport
Getting around the city.
Bus
Minibuses are the main public transport in Port Vila and Luganville. Look for 'B' on license plates. Fares are 150 VT ($1.30) around town, 300-500 VT ($2.60-4.30) for longer distances. Wave them down on the roadside, pay driver directly. Irregular schedules but frequent during daytime.
Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare
Taxis & rideshare
What to expect from taxis and apps.
- Regular
- Taxis available in Port Vila and Luganville. Base fare around 155 VT ($1.35), then approximately 143 VT ($1.25) per km. No meters - agree on price before departure. Airport to Port Vila center: 1,400-2,500 VT. Waiting time around 500 VT per hour. Available 24 hours but scarce late night.
Intercity travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Bus
Limited intercity buses on main islands. Mostly minibuses connecting villages to town centers. On Efate, minibuses circle the island (around the island tour: 500-1,000 VT). Schedules are flexible. Ask locals or hotel staff for current routes.
Flights
Air Vanuatu operates domestic flights between islands. Port Vila to Santo (40 min, $150-200 one-way), Port Vila to Tanna (45 min, $180-220 one-way). Book in advance, especially in high season. Small aircraft, weight restrictions apply. Check-in 1 hour before.
Transportation details
Full breakdown of how to get around.
Airports
Bauerfield International Airport (Port Vila)
From centre: 6 km
Options: Taxi - 1,400-2,500 VT ($12-21); Minibus - 150-300 VT ($1.30-2.60); Hotel shuttle - often included or 900-1,500 VT ($8-13); Car rental - available at airport
Pekoa International Airport (Luganville, Santo)
From centre: 3 km
Options: Taxi - 800-1,200 VT ($7-10); Hotel shuttle - often included; Car rental - limited availability
Whitegrass Airport (Tanna)
From centre: 20 km to Lenakel
Options: Hotel transfer - usually arranged with accommodation; Taxi - 2,000-3,000 VT ($17-26)
Useful apps
Download before you arrive.
Air Vanuatu App
Book domestic flights between Vanuatu's islands. Essential for planning inter-island travel as schedules change.
Google Maps
Works reasonably well in Port Vila and Luganville for navigation, though coverage in outer islands is limited. Download offline maps before traveling.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Always agree on a taxi price before getting in — there are no meters and tourists can be overcharged without negotiation
Minibuses (those with 'B' on their license plate) are the authentic local transport — flag them on the roadside, pay the driver, fares from 150 VT ($1.30) within Port Vila
For Espiritu Santo, car rental is essential — the best beaches and blue holes require a vehicle, and 4WD is strongly recommended for east coast roads
Domestic flights on Air Vanuatu have strict baggage weight limits — check current allowances before packing as excess fees add up
The free Iririki Island ferry from Port Vila waterfront runs until 11 PM — factor this into evening plans at island venues
Motorcycle and scooter rental ($30-40/day) works well for solo travelers exploring Efate's ring road in dry conditions