Things To Do
in Saratamata
Saratamata is a quiet coastal town in northern Vanuatu, known for its friendly Ni-Vanuatu community and unspoiled island charm. It sits along a turquoise bay with palm-fringed beaches and nearby volcanic hills that cradle small, colorful villages. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, centered on fishing, market days, and welcoming conversations with locals.
Visitors can soak in authentic island culture, explore simple markets, and use easy day trips to nearby reefs and trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Saratamata, you'll be greeted by the warm smiles of locals and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and turquoise waters. Take your time settling into your accommodation and soaking in the natural beauty. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies.
Explore the vibrant market where you can find handmade crafts and local produce. Engage with the friendly vendors and learn about the traditional lifestyle of the islanders. Don’t forget to sample some freshly caught seafood from the nearby stalls.
As the sun sets, head to the beach for a serene evening by the ocean. Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a local eatery, savoring traditional Vanuatu dishes while the waves gently lap at the shore. Cap off your day with a night walk under the stars, feeling the gentle sea breeze.
Start your day with a guided tour of a local village, where you’ll learn about the unique customs and traditions that make Vanuatu special. Participate in a traditional greeting ceremony and make new friends within the community. Enjoy a breakfast prepared by the locals using indigenous ingredients.
Join a cultural workshop to learn crafts such as basket weaving or wood carving, with guidance from skilled artisans. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the local culture while creating a unique souvenir to take home. Take a break for a delicious lunch featuring traditional cassava or yam dishes.
Immerse yourself in the island's nightlife by attending a local dance performance showcasing traditional dances along with music. The vibrant rhythms and colorful costumes will leave you captivated. Enjoy dinner at a local establishment, followed by lounging by the beach and enjoying the sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-50 |
| 🚌Local transportation per ride (taxi/bus) | $2-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic staples for a day) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic island culture and warm community
- Stunning coastlines, reefs, and nature nearby
- Low crowds compared to major tourist hubs
- Affordable local pricing and simple, relaxed vibe
- Limited healthcare facilities locally; evacuation can be needed for serious cases
- Fewer accommodation and dining options than larger cities
- Occasional travel disruptions due to weather or limited transport links
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Gud morning" - Good morning
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Tank yu" - Thank you
- "Dias is not good" - Please
Places to Visit in Saratamata
Visit one of these nice places.
A sheltered harbor with fishing boats and colorful kilns, perfect for sunset reflections and silhouettes.
A short climb from the village leads to a sweeping view of the coastline, neighboring isles, and emerald hills.
Busy mornings with vibrant fruit stalls, baskets, and local life—great for candor-filled street photography.
Shaded palm lanes and powdery sand ideal for relaxed landscape and portrait shots.
Food in Saratamata
Saratamata Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A steamed root-vegetable pudding (usually yam or taro) wrapped in banana leaf and often served with coconut sauce.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish finished with a creamy coconut milk sauce and served with root vegetables or rice.
A hearty stew featuring cassava, sweet potato, and leafy greens simmered with spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, daily market where you can buy tropical fruit, coconuts, yams, taro, and fresh-caught fish, plus prepared snacks from local stalls.
Mobile grills offering skewered fish, fried cassava, and coconut bread; perfect for a quick seaside bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello and handshake are common. Be polite and show interest in the local culture.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly during ceremonies or in private homes.
Dress modestly in town and respect local norms at churches and cultural sites.
Smiles and conversation are valued; sharing food or water with neighbors is common.
Safety
Tipping in Saratamata
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not an explicit standard in Saratamata, but small appreciative gestures (VT 50–200) for exceptional service are welcome. In more tourist-oriented spots, tipping may be more common.
Cash (Vanuatu Vatu, VT) is preferred for most purchases on the islands. Some larger or newer establishments may take cards, but carry reasonable cash for market stalls, taxis, and small shops. ATMs are concentrated in major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May to October brings cooler nights and sunny days with low to moderate humidity, making hiking and outdoor activities more comfortable. Winds are steady from the southeast, and seas are generally calmer for snorkeling and boating.
November to April brings higher humidity and frequent showers, with a greater chance of tropical rainfall and occasional storms. This period offers dramatic skies for photography and lush green landscapes, but plan for rain gear and flexible plans.
Saratamata at Night
Hiking in Saratamata
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic hike to a viewpoint over the coast and neighboring isles; suitable for most visitors.
A longer route along the coastal ridge with sea breezes and opportunities to spot seabirds and coastal flora.
Airports
How to reach Saratamata by plane.
Located on Espiritu Santo (Luganville). A key regional hub with flights to Port Vila and other islands; ideal for reaching Saratamata via domestic connections.
Port Vila’s main international airport; offers connections to Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific destinations. Useful for international travelers heading to Vanuatu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Melanesian communities with strong family ties and a welcoming village culture.
A small number of temporary residents and researchers who contribute to local projects and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in schools and community leagues; casual pickup games occur on weekends.
Informal street or court-based games are popular among youth and adults.
Cultural sports practiced during community events and celebrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saratamata.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on fresh fruits, root vegetables (taro, yam, cassava), and coconut milk-based dishes. Ask for vegetable stews or fried greens, and request dishes without fish stock or meat. In larger towns, you may find dairy or egg options, but plant-based meals are common in home-style cooking.