The best time to visit Port Villa is during the months of November to May when the weather is hot yet cooled with fresh sea breezes. Benefit from competitively priced flights to Vanuatu at this time of year which is also a good time for families with children who are on school holidays. Vanuatu also has many national holidays from November to May such as Unity Day, Father Walter Lini Day and Custom Chief Day which are celebrated across the island.
Port Villa overview
The charming town of Port Villa is the capital of Vanuatu which belongs to a group of islands located in the south west of the Pacific Ocean. It's a favourite travel destination with many people from New Zealand and Australia due to its close proximity to both countries. Port Villa is the largest town on the island with a population of around 40,000 people. Built around Vila Bay the town spreads up a steep hillside providing spectacular views of the beautiful harbour, lagoons and inlets. Port Villa has a relaxing almost French atmosphere due to the historical colonial buildings, narrow streets and friendly café scene. It's certainly an attractive town with plenty of things to do and see. Pay a visit to the Cultural Centre to find out more about the island's fascinating past, hidden treasures and the stunning white sandy beaches. Hebrida Market is a great place to shop selling everything from fruit and vegetables, clothing, flowers including local handicrafts. Golfing enthusiasts can enjoy a day out at the Port Villa Golf and Country Club. It has a challenging 19-hole course overlooking the fabulous Mele Bay. Only a 10-minute bus ride from town is the exciting, L-Hippocampus the Sea Horse Ranch. It's one of Vanuatu's major adventure attractions with fun trail rides, bareback swimming treks, rainforest rides, sunset trails and beach combing walks. How about going on a day cruise from Port Villa harbour to visit Tranquillity Island? Try snorkelling and go to see the turtle sanctuary.
Getting around Vanuatu
Getting around Port Villa isn't a problem. Just wave a minibus down that has a red B on the left-hand side of the number plate and the driver will stop for you. They are cheap, reliable and the ideal way for travelling around town. For further afield, taxis charge standard fares but only those vehicles with a taximeter.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) is located approximately 5 miles (8 km) north west of Port Villa. Privately owned buses are available to transport passengers from the airport into town as well as other resorts around the island. Many hotels provide their guests with free airport minibus shuttle services. Car hire desks are also located inside the airport terminal. Pre-booking a car rental in advance is advisable during the peak holiday season. Take a 10-15 minute taxi ride, but do agree a price upfront before setting off.
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