(Literally, If You Stand Too Close to the Volcano)
Vanuatu isn’t just another tropical paradise. Sure, it has beaches and palm trees, but it also has lava-spewing volcanoes, ancient tribal traditions, and underwater post offices (yes, really). If you’re the type who likes their vacations with a side of mind-blown, buckle up—because Vanuatu is here to shake up your definition of awesome.
1. There’s a Volcano That You Can Stand Next To. Like, Right There.
Forget watching eruptions on Discovery Channel—Mount Yasur on Tanna Island lets you witness the madness in real life. You’ll stand at the edge, feel the ground rumble, and watch lava explode into the sky. It’s like fireworks, but hotter and way more “Oh wow, I might actually die” vibes.
💡 Survival tip: Don’t stand too close unless you want an impromptu eyebrow removal.
2. The Blue Holes Look Like They’ve Been Photoshopped
Imagine the bluest water you’ve ever seen. Now make it even bluer. Vanuatu’s blue holes are like nature’s own infinity pools, hidden in the jungle and perfect for swimming, jumping, and questioning whether your eyes are broken.
📍Where? Espiritu Santo has the best ones (Nanda, Riri, Matevulu).
📸 Pro tip: Bright swimsuits look extra cool against the electric-blue water.
3. You Can Post a Letter UNDERWATER
Yep, Vanuatu has the world’s only underwater post office. Swim down, drop off a waterproof postcard, and flex on everyone back home. “Oh, you mailed your postcard from a café? Cute. I snorkeled mine to a mailbox under the sea.”
📍Where? Hideaway Island, near Port Vila.
🤿 How deep? About 3 meters—easy enough for beginners!
4. There’s a Festival Where People Jump Off Towers With Vines Tied to Their Ankles
Before bungee jumping was a thing, land diving was happening on Pentecost Island. Local men climb sketchy-looking wooden towers (some as high as 30 meters) and dive off with only vines tied around their ankles. No harness. No safety net. Just vibes and ancient traditions.
🏆 Why do they do it? It’s a rite of passage and a way to ensure a good yam harvest.
😬 Can tourists try it? No, and honestly, that’s for the best.
5. You Can Snorkel Over a Million Dollars’ Worth of Sunken Military Gear
At Million Dollar Point, the U.S. Army dumped literally millions of dollars of WWII equipment into the sea. Now, it’s an underwater playground full of tanks, trucks, and other relics just chilling beneath the waves.
📍Where? Espiritu Santo.
🤯 Why did they dump it? Locals wouldn’t buy it, so the Americans said, fine, nobody gets it! (Petty much?)
6. The Sea Turtles Here Are Basically Celebrities
In Vanuatu, swimming with turtles isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime thing—it’s just a normal Tuesday. Whether you’re snorkelling in the lagoons or cruising to smaller islands, you’ll probably spot these chill legends cruising by.
📍Best places to find them: Tranquility Island & Pele Island.
📸 Turtle etiquette: Don’t touch! Respect their personal space (even if they’re cuter than your childhood pet).
7. The Earth Literally Glows at Night
Thanks to Mount Yasur, Tanna Island lights up like a post-apocalyptic movie set. At night, you can see the lava glow from miles away, making it look like the Earth is low-key on fire (which, technically, it is).
🔥 Fun fact: It’s one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world—no crazy hiking required!
8. Villages Here Have Zero Electricity… And They Like It That Way
Ever heard of Kustom villages? These communities live 100% off the grid—no electricity, no WiFi, no modern tech. But they’ve got everything they need: strong traditions, a deep connection with nature, and zero stress about Instagram algorithms.
📍Where? Tanna & Pentecost Islands.
💡 Can you visit? Yes! Some villages welcome respectful tourists for cultural experiences.
9. Pigs Are Basically VIPs Here
In Vanuatu, pigs aren’t just farm animals—they’re a sign of wealth. The more pigs you own, the richer and more respected you are. Forget Bitcoin, start investing in swine.
🐖 Extra flex: Some pigs even have their tusks twisted into full circles, which makes them extra valuable!
10. There’s a Drink That Will Make You Feel Drunk… But Not Drunk
Meet kava, Vanuatu’s traditional drink. It’s made from a plant root, looks like muddy water, and tastes, well… earthy. But the effects? Pure relaxation. No hangover, no headache—just a deep sense of chill.
📍Where? Everywhere. Local nakamals (kava bars) serve it fresh.
💡 Pro tip: Drink it slow. The numb tongue is normal.
Comments