Luganville
,Luganville is the second largest city in Vanuatu, located on the island of Espiritu Santo. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals. Luganville is a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, with numerous dive sites including the SS President Coolidge, a famous wreck dive.
Visitors can also explore the stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and cultural attractions in and around Luganville.
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Mi nisi" - I am fine
- "Tangkyu" - Thank you
- "Mi lovem yu" - I love you
- "Good morning" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Snorkel Adventure
morning
:Start your day with a trip to the vibrant starfish reef, where you can snorkel among colorful marine life. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local café before heading out.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, visit the nearby Million Dollar Point, known for its stunning underwater wrecks and rich history. Take some time to explore the area and have lunch at a beachside restaurant.
evening
:Wind down your day with a beachfront dinner, enjoying local seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean. Consider taking a leisurely stroll along the beach to end your day.
Rainforest Expedition
morning
:Start with a guided hike in the lush Santo rainforest, where you might spot unique wildlife and vibrant flora. A packed breakfast can be enjoyed amidst the natural beauty.
afternoon
:After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot, then visit the famous Blue Hole for a refreshing swim. Spend some time relaxing by the water or snorkeling to enjoy the underwater views.
evening
:Return to Luganville and indulge in a casual dinner at a local eatery. Relax and share stories of your day under the stars.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery with lush landscapes and stunning beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local community.
- Diving and snorkeling opportunities in pristine waters.
- Mild tropical climate, making it a pleasant destination year-round.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Pacific islands.
Bad
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including inconsistent transportation options.
- Potential for natural disasters, such as cyclones and earthquakes.
- Limited job opportunities and economic diversification.
- Remote location may lead to isolation from mainland amenities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Snorkeling at Million Dollar Point
Explore the vibrant underwater world at Million Dollar Point, where you can see stunning coral reefs and a variety of marine life. This site is famous for its WWII relics submerged in the crystal-clear waters.
Visit the Blue Hole
Swim in the refreshing natural spring of the Blue Hole, known for its stunning blue waters and lush surrounding rainforest. It's perfect for relaxation or a refreshing dip.
Hiking in the surrounding rainforest
Embark on a hiking adventure in the lush rainforests surrounding Luganville, offering scenic trails, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking views.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters around Luganville. It's a great way to enjoy the beautiful coastal landscape and wildlife.
Cultural Village Tours
Engage with the local culture by visiting nearby villages. Participate in traditional ceremonies, taste local foods, and learn about the customs of the Vanuatu people.
Scuba Diving on the SS President Coolidge
Dive the famous wreck of the SS President Coolidge, one of the largest and most accessible wrecks in the world. Explore its remarkable structure and surrounding marine life.
Beach Relaxation at Amber Beach
Spend a day enjoying the sun and sand at Amber Beach, a popular spot for relaxation, beach games, and picnicking with beautiful views of the ocean.
Waterfall Adventures
Take a trip to the nearby waterfalls, such as the Riri River Waterfalls, where you can swim, hike, and take in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Luganville with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Millennium Cave
A spectacular natural cave with a stunning underground river and waterfall, offering unique photo opportunities.
Champagne Beach
A picturesque white sand beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for capturing beautiful coastal scenery.
Blue Hole
A natural swimming hole surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, providing a serene and photogenic setting.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lap Lap
A traditional Vanuatu dish made with grated root vegetables, coconut milk, and a choice of meat or fish, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven.
Must-Try!
Coconut Crab
Known as the 'delicacy of Vanuatu,' coconut crab is a must-try local specialty, often prepared with a mix of local spices and coconut cream.
Poulet Fish
A popular fish dish prepared with a blend of local herbs and spices, often served with taro and fresh vegetables.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Luganville better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Luganville Market
Visit the bustling Luganville Market to immerse in the local food scene. Here, you can sample a variety of tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and local snacks like cassava chips and coconut-based treats.
Street Food Stalls
Explore the vibrant street food stalls in Luganville, where you can indulge in freshly grilled seafood, tropical fruit smoothies, and savory snacks like coconut crab skewers.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Customary Practices
In Luganville, it is vital to show respect for local customs and traditions, which are an integral part of Ni-Vanuatu culture. Always ask for permission before photographing ceremonies or sacred sites.
Greetings and Communication
Greetings are an important part of social interaction in Vanuatu. A friendly handshake is common, and using local greetings such as 'Malo' (hello) can help build rapport. It is considered respectful to engage in small talk before getting into business discussions.
Dress Modestly
While Luganville is more relaxed compared to rural areas, dressing modestly remains important. Beachwear should be reserved for the beach, and casual, respectful clothing is recommended in town and during visits to local villages.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Luganville with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Luganville, Vanuatu, tipping is generally appreciated but not compulsory. It is common to tip in restaurants, bars, and for service providers such as tour guides and taxi drivers. A tip of around 10% is customary if the service has been particularly good. However, local customs may vary, and it is always advisable to check with locals or staff about the appropriateness of tipping.
Payment
Payments in Luganville can be made using the local currency, the Vanuatu vatu (VUV). Cash is widely used, particularly in small businesses, markets, and for local services. However, many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments do accept credit and debit cards, though it is wise to carry cash for smaller transactions. ATMs are available, but it is advisable to ensure that cards have global acceptance for international transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Luganville.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (May to October)
The dry season in Luganville, Vanuatu is the best time to visit as the weather is generally sunny and pleasant. Visitors can expect lower humidity and less rainfall during this time.
Wet Season (November to April)
The wet season in Luganville, Vanuatu brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity. Visitors can expect occasional heavy rainfall and the potential for tropical storms during this period.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Tumbak
A challenging hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Tumbak, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the sea. The trail winds through lush rainforest, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Blue Hole
While primarily known for swimming, the area around Blue Hole offers scenic walking trails through beautiful landscapes. Hikers can enjoy the lush greenery and the refreshing beauty of the water bodies.
Sarakata River Trail
This trail follows the Sarakata River, providing a moderate hiking experience with opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil river views.
Nambuntulu Falls
A hike to Nambuntulu Falls takes you through lush terrain and concludes at a beautiful waterfall. The path is scenic and relatively easy, making it suitable for families.
Luganville to Champagne Beach Trail
This coastal trail offers a picturesque journey from Luganville to the famous Champagne Beach, where hikers can enjoy stunning ocean views and the soft sand at the destination.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Luganville through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Luganville by plane.
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI)
The main international airport serving Port Vila, Vanuatu, located approximately 300 kilometers from Luganville.
Honiara International Airport (HIR)
Situated in Honiara, Solomon Islands, this airport is about 800 kilometers from Luganville and serves as a regional hub.
Nadi International Airport (NAN)
Located in Nadi, Fiji, approximately 2,000 kilometers from Luganville, it is one of the major international gateways to the South Pacific.
Faa'a International Airport (PPT)
Situated in Papeete, Tahiti, this airport is roughly 3,200 kilometers from Luganville and serves as a major international airport in French Polynesia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Melanesian Population
The largest demographic group in Luganville, primarily consisting of indigenous Melanesians who have historically inhabited the region.
European Descendants
Composed of individuals with European ancestry, particularly from French and British backgrounds, who settled in the area during colonial times.
Asian Population
This group includes individuals of various Asian descents, particularly from countries such as China, who are involved in local business and trade.
Mixed Heritage
Individuals of mixed heritage, often a combination of Melanesian and European ancestry, representing a smaller demographic.
Expats and Tourists
A transient population of expatriates and tourists who visit Luganville, contributing to short-term demographic changes.
The Soul of Luganville
Discover the essence of Luganville through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby Union
A popular sport in Vanuatu, especially in Luganville, with local clubs and competitions.
Soccer (Football)
Football is widely played in Luganville, with many schools and local leagues participating.
Netball
Netball has a strong following in Vanuatu, particularly among women and girls.
Basketball
A growing sport in Luganville, with increasing participation at various levels.
Cricket
Played by a number of local teams, cricket has gained popularity in recent years.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Luganville predominantly features seafood and meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as plant-based curries, stir-fries, and fresh fruit platters.
Gluten-Free Choices
Travelers with gluten restrictions can opt for naturally gluten-free local dishes like grilled fish, fresh salads, and dishes featuring root vegetables. Additionally, many dining establishments are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Luganville with these cultural adventures.
