
Island Nation of the South Pacific – Vanuatu is an archipelago of over 80 islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia and north of New Zealand.
Land of Active Volcanoes – Vanuatu is home to Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, located on Tanna Island. You can watch eruptions up close!
Diverse Cultures and Languages – With a population of under 350,000, Vanuatu boasts over 100 local languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.
Bungee Jumping Was Inspired Here – The traditional land diving ritual of Pentecost Island, where men jump from tall wooden towers with vines tied to their ankles, is considered the origin of modern bungee jumping.
A Unique Mix of Influences – Vanuatu was jointly ruled by both Britain and France before gaining independence in 1980. This colonial past has left a legacy of dual official languages, English and French, along with Bislama, a creole language.
Underwater Post Office – Vanuatu has the world’s only underwater post office, located off the coast of Hideaway Island, where you can post waterproof postcards while snorkeling or diving.
Coral Reefs and Marine Life – The country is a top destination for diving and snorkeling, with colorful coral reefs, WWII shipwrecks, and abundant marine biodiversity.
Friendly Locals and Strong Traditions – Vanuatuans are known for their hospitality and maintain many traditional customs, dances, and ceremonies, especially in rural areas.
Cyclone-Prone but Resilient – Located in a tropical cyclone zone, Vanuatu faces regular storms, but its communities have shown great resilience and strong local support systems.
Yam Festivals and Customary Beliefs – Yams are a staple crop, and many islands celebrate yam festivals tied to traditional beliefs and the changing of seasons.