Vanuatu Travel & Emergency Guide

Emergency Numbers in Vanuatu

Key Travel Facts

Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Vanuatu

Toll & Vignette: No toll information

Tipping & Etiquette

Recommendation: 5–10% customary

• DO Respect Kastom (customary indigenous law): Always ask permission before photographing villagers or entering sacred sites.
• DO Follow official safety guidelines and guide instructions when visiting Mount Yasur active volcano on Tanna (levels 0–4).
• DO Dress modestly when visiting towns and local villages (cover knees and shoulders).
• DO Experience kava in a traditional 'Nakamal' (kava bar) in a respectful, quiet ambiance.
• DON'T Never offer tips (contrary to traditional Melanesian social customs).
• DON'T Never enter marked sacred taboo areas (Tambu) in forests or villages without local permission.
• DON'T Never sunbathe topless or walk through towns in revealing swimwear.
• DON'T Never hike onto the crater rim of Mount Yasur unsupervised or during elevated alert levels.

Power Sockets & Tap Water

Plug Type & Electricity: Type I (230V / 50Hz) – Australasian three-pin plug (adapter required).

Tap Water: Generally safe in municipal Port Vila and Luganville; bottled or boiled water is recommended on outer islands.

Insider Tip: Tipping contradicts traditional Melanesian Kastom culture (can cause embarrassment); simply show sincere gratitude with 'Tankyu tumas'.