20 Best Day Tours in Port Vila & Efate

Getting off the beaten track is what Vanuatu Ecotours is all about, and this island day trip to Nguna and Pele Islands offers a unique experience for the adventurous!

We absolutely love this dual-island adventure that perfectly combines hiking, cultural immersion and marine exploration across two pristine Vanuatu islands. You'll start by choosing between the challenging "Volcano Walk" up Mt Marou (472 m/1,549 ft) for sweeping views across the Shepherd Islands or the more leisurely "Village Walk" that can be adapted to your fitness level.

After your morning trek on Nguna Island, you'll be whisked away to neighbouring Pele Island for a delicious buffet lunch prepared by local mamas using the freshest ingredients. The afternoon is yours to snorkel the marine conservation area, swim in turquoise lagoons or simply relax on white sand beaches.

What we find particularly meaningful about this tour is its commitment to supporting local communities who are actively conserving their reef and forest resources. Your adventure becomes both memorable and impactful.

Offering a day tour that does exactly what it says on the tin, Moso Island Day Tours takes you by boat to discover hidden caves, giant clam snorkelling sites, turtle nesting grounds and more around Efate's largest offshore island.

Your eight-hour journey begins with a scenic boat ride to hidden caves and dramatic coastal landscapes on the eastern side of Moso Island, where you'll enjoy three separate snorkelling sessions in waters teeming with fish, coral and even a dedicated giant clam site.

Along the way, your guide will slowly follow the coast where sea turtles nest to help you spot them gliding in the water (we lost count after 40 turtles on our last tour - no joke!)

The experience includes a relaxing lunch break on a secluded private beach, where you can feed local drum fish and soak up the island atmosphere.

All snorkelling equipment, refreshments, lunch and transfers are provided, making this an effortless way to discover one of the most captivating destinations from Vanuatu's main island.

Eretoka Fishing & Tour Adventure combines the best of Efate's underwater world with cultural immersion around the historic Eretoka Island, also known as Artok or Hat Island.

The snorkelling adventure takes you to multiple locations featuring vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life, with backup spots at nearby Lelepa Island when weather demands flexibility. What's more, all snorkelling gear is provided, including masks, snorkels and fins.

Beyond the reefs, you'll enjoy interactive fish feeding experiences and rare giant clam sightings, where you'll learn about these massive creatures' vital role in the marine ecosystem.

But it's not all about the water, as you embark on a guided village tour with local guides who share captivating stories about their community and traditional way of life. You'll walk through the village that is part of the UNESCO Chief Roi Mata's Domain, experiencing how his ancestors enjoy island life today whilst discovering cultural artefacts, legends and traditions passed down through generations.

Experiencing the captivating tribal culture of Efate is unmissable, and the "Full-Day Efate Round Island Trip" with Yumi Tours offers an excellent way to embrace the local culture while still getting the sightseeing highlights in.

Your adventure kicks off at Pepeyo Cultural Village, tucked away in the lush Teouma woods, where you'll dive deep into Pacific Island traditions through an immersive array of cultural demonstrations.

Next up is the famous Blue Lagoon, and trust us, this swimming hole is absolutely pristine. From there, you'll visit Sara Beach, which you might recognise as the filming location for the hit TV show Survivor (how cool is that?).

The therapeutic Nasinu Hot Springs are next on your itinerary, where the natural combination of sulphur and salt water works wonders for soothing aches and pains. We've found that locals swear by these healing waters!

You'll capture stunning panoramic views from Klems Hill lookout at Mele Maat. The coffee lovers amongst you will appreciate the stop at Tanna Coffee Factory, where you'll discover local coffee culture first-hand.

Your day concludes with a traditional kava ceremony at The Kava House, where you'll learn about this sacred plant's deep cultural significance in Vanuatu.

Get out on the water on a different kind of day tour with Sailing Vanuatu!

Your day kicks off with convenient hotel transfers to Gideon's Landing, where you'll step aboard a gorgeous yacht for your journey through the sheltered waters of the Havannah Harbour. Snorkel the fringing reefs bursting with tropical marine life, then tuck into a mouth-watering buffet BBQ lunch served right onboard.

The adventure doesn't stop there. Weather permitting, you'll visit either Lelepa Island or Moso Island, where you can wander through local villages, browse handicrafts at the mama's markets, and soak up the sun at secluded Palafo Bay.

Between activities, unwind on the luxurious day beds or hammocks, trying your hand at kayaking or paddle boarding, or even picking up some basic sailing techniques from the experienced crew.

For a tasty twist to your day tour of Port Vila, check out Port Vila Tours' "Guided Food Experience".

We absolutely love this seven-hour culinary adventure that takes you deep into Vanuatu's incredible food scene. You'll explore bustling local markets, get behind-the-scenes access at the famous Aelan Chocolate Factory and 83 Islands Distillery, and learn traditional cooking techniques in authentic Mele Village.

The tastings alone are worth the trip. Think premium Vanuatu chocolate, locally roasted coffee, handcrafted spirits and tender local beef. Plus, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming café and experience the cultural significance of kava at traditional bars (something we've found adds real depth to understanding Melanesian culture).

What we particularly love is how well-organised everything is. Air-conditioned transport picks you up from your Port Vila hotel, expert local guides share insider knowledge throughout the day, and the small group size means you get personalised attention at every stop.

Discover the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Emau and Nguna islands on this captivating day tour that takes you to two extinct volcanic cones through scenic mountain and hill hiking experiences.

Enjoy the local perspective provided by Tropical Island Tours, a 100% locally owned operator whose connections run deep; the owner's wife hails from Pele Island, offering genuine insights into island culture and traditions.

Beyond the volcanic exploration, you'll experience the stunning Nemarou Lagoon area, including the pristine Mangge sand bank, the extinct Limilo Volcano, and the beautiful lagoon itself.

The tour includes convenient hotel pickup between 8:30 am and 9 am, with personalised service that truly embodies their slogan: "Giving you the real island time mood."

When it comes to day tours in Vanuatu, Atmosphere Tours & Transfers is a reliable go-to with two fantastic day trip options to explore around Efate from Port Vila.

They offer two brilliant full-day tours: the 8-hour "Scenic Around the Island Tour" if you want to see it all with air-conditioned comfort, and the 6-hour "Cultural, Blue Lagoon & Eden on the River Tour" when you're after something more focused on culture and water adventures.

Both tours include an unforgettable visit to Pepeyo Cultural Village, where you'll witness incredible traditional fire-walking displays and custom dancing. Trust us, it's an authentic glimpse into Vanuatu's captivating culture that you won't forget.

The natural highlight has to be the stunning Blue Lagoon. The limestone springs create the most impossibly blue waters we've ever seen, perfect for swimming and (if you're feeling brave) some exhilarating rope swinging.

You'll also stop at Eton Primary School during weekdays for some heartwarming interactions with local children, Top Rock for brilliant snorkelling and elevated ocean views, and Eden on the River for more water activities. Everything's included—buffet lunch, afternoon tea, professional local guides and convenient hotel pickup.

Combine spectacular swimming holes and seeing turtles on the mainland with visiting an offshore island on this guided full-day tour with Vila Hope Tours & Transfers.

This action-packed full-day (approximately six-hour) tour combines three of Port Vila's most spectacular aquatic attractions in one unforgettable experience. Begin your adventure at the mesmerising Crystal Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in tranquil turquoise waters and try the exhilarating rope swing if you're feeling adventurous.

Next, explore Hideaway Island Marine Reserve, a pristine slice of paradise featuring vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and the world-famous underwater post office where you can send waterproof postcards. The island's onsite restaurant offers delicious refreshments with stunning ocean views.

Your journey concludes at the Avi Bay Turtle Sanctuary, where you'll observe sea turtles and iguanas in enclosures. Throughout the day, you'll enjoy a delicious beachside BBQ lunch, snacks and air-conditioned transport with hotel transfers included.

For those looking to be more in charge of their own itinerary, while getting expert guidance and comfortable transport, Bountiful Tours & Transfers is a no-brainer.

It's hands down one of the most flexible ways to explore Efate at your own pace, whether you choose the dedicated four-hour private "Tropical Trio" or a flexible "Private Minivan Hire" with a professional guide who knows all the best spots.

Here's what we love most about the Tropical Trio Excursion: you get to pick any three destinations from 11 incredible options. Think the famous Blue Lagoon, the stunning Mele Cascades, cultural experiences at Pepeyo Cultural Village, underwater adventures at Hideaway Island, and flavourful attractions like the Chocolate Factory and Tanna Coffee Factory.

This completely customisable experience lets you craft your perfect day combining swimming, snorkelling, cultural immersion, wildlife encounters and scenic waterfalls.

Alternatively, the uber-flexible minivan and driver hire allows you to hire your own personal chauffeur for 1-8 hours a day, allowing you to avoid the crowds while exploring at your own pace.

With fun-loving drivers, air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup included, all you need to do is choose your must-see spots and pay entrance fees directly at each location.

Ideal for cruise ship passengers who have swimming in paradisiacal spots high on the agenda, Lavanua Tours & Transfers offers the perfect day tour.

This comprehensive six-hour adventure perfectly balances natural wonder with shopping Port Vila's most stunning locations.

Your journey begins with turtle watching at Avi Bay, where you'll observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat whilst learning about conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides.

The tour continues to Eden on the River, a hidden gem featuring cascading waterfalls and tranquil pools perfect for swimming and reconnecting with nature. The grand finale takes place at the spectacular Crystal Blue Lagoon, where adventurous souls can swing from a rope into pristine turquoise waters for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Throughout the day, you'll travel in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet lunch. The tour concludes with duty-free shopping at Fung Kuei, offering everything from local gems to international brands.

For travellers with snorkelling or scuba diving on the top of the Vanuatu bucket list, don't miss the day trip to Tranquility Island Resort.

Their full-day trip includes bus pickup from Port Vila (30-45 minutes), followed by boat transfer to either the resort itself for snorkelling around the pristine house reef, or to the spectacular Hapi Tok Beach on the back of the island when weather permits. You'll enjoy two guided snorkelling sessions of 20-25 minutes each, with a delicious barbecue lunch served on the beach between sessions.

All snorkelling gear is provided, including masks, snorkels and fins, plus refreshments are served on board during your return journey.

Scuba divers can add dive packages to explore 15 dive sites around Moso Island, Lelepa Island and Hat Island, including the turtle-rich house reef, colourful Owens Reef, where you might spot sharks, and the impressive cave at Hat Island that can accommodate 20 people.

New to diving? Try their "Discover Scuba" session, with different pricing depending on whether you bring your own gear or use theirs. Better yet, stay at the resort to facilitate easy-going PADI courses.

Escape to pristine Lelepa Island for an unforgettable full-day adventure that combines unforgettable snorkelling, cultural immersion and natural exploration with Lelepa Island Tours.

This 100% locally-owned tour takes you to Vanuatu's hidden gem, where you could be lucky to snorkel amongst dugongs and turtles in a marine sanctuary, explore a sunken aircraft just 3 m (10 ft) underwater, and discover giant clam shells alongside white-sand beaches.

The experience includes a guided bushwalk through tropical rainforest to learn about traditional bush medicine, followed by a delicious beach BBQ featuring local beef, chicken, fresh salads and tropical fruits. You'll also visit the local village to meet families selling handcrafted artefacts while children perform traditional songs and dances.

What makes this tour truly special is its connection to Chief Roi Mata's Domain, part of Vanuatu's sole UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 17th-century archaeological sites preserved through oral traditions and cultural tapu (taboos).

Vanuatu Watersports has you covered with two fantastic kayaking options.

Their half-day sea kayak trip is perfect if you're short on time but still want to get out on the water.

You'll be paddling double kayaks from Mission Kayaks. If you've got an odd number in your group, don't worry. The guide will hop in the back of a double kayak instead, which actually makes things safer and easier to manage.

The adventure kicks off from Fatamaru Bay, taking you through the harbour for a lovely loop around the back of Iririki Island. This shorter option includes a refreshing stop at a small sandy beach where you can take a dip if the tropical heat gets to you.

If you're up for a proper adventure, their full-day kayak experience is where things get exciting. You'll be paddling for about 6 hours and cover approximately 11 km (6.8 mi) in total, which will definitely leave you feeling like you've had a proper workout (but in the best possible way).

Starting from the same Fatamaru Bay spot, this extended route takes you along the point and across to Faro Island, around the back of the island, then up to Wota Rua (Paradise Cove). Lunch is included in the price, and you'll get about an hour to snorkel at the breathtaking Paradise Cove before heading back.

Pack your biggest hat, slather on the sunscreen and bring plenty of water; this is a full-sun experience.

Escape to Pele Island for a day tour with the locals that combines unbelievably turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and genuine Vanuatu hospitality with Pele Island Beach and Snorkeling Tours.

This small-group experience includes boat transfers from the mainland wharf, snorkelling gear and guided fish feeding just 300 m (330 yards) offshore where colourful coral fish dart between stunning coral formations.

After working up an appetite underwater, you'll be treated to a hearty barbecue lunch featuring locally-sourced beef, chicken and fresh fish (when available), accompanied by rice, bread and tropical fruits. The afternoon continues with a guided village walk, offering insights into local island life and traditional customs.

Operating daily with complete snorkelling equipment provided (masks, fins and snorkels), this tour is one of the best ways to experience Pele Island in just one day. The experience runs as a full-day adventure, typically booked through local tour operators or resort partnerships - so ask at your accommodation reception.

Choose the full-day option with Chief Roi Mata's Domain Tours and you'll get to walk through history across Efate and two offshore islands, with an authentic local lunch included.

This immersive experience takes you across three sacred 17th-century locations that tell the remarkable story of the chief who brought lasting peace to Efate and its surrounding islands. Your adventure begins at Roi Mata's mainland village, where you'll explore ancient stone remains once used for mystical rituals and witness a magnificent banyan tree that has stood sentinel for centuries.

From there, board a local boat to explore the mysterious cave on Lelepa Island before reaching the final destination: the mass burial site on Artok Island where Chief Roi Mata and his followers were laid to rest.

The full-day tour includes a delicious lunch featuring authentic Vanuatu dishes like laplap and simboro, while preserving oral traditions that have kept this sacred story alive for over 400 years.

Nguna Island Adventure offers an exceptional day-long experience combining adventure, culture and marine conservation on one of Efate's most enchanting offshore islands.

Choose between a spectacular hike to Nguna's famed volcanic crater or an immersive village tour where you'll discover the island's rich history and visit the Chief's traditional nakamal.

Both tours include a delicious lunch and full access to the Vatvaka Beach Club, where you can snorkel (bring your own), kayak along the coastline or simply relax on the beach.

For those passionate about marine life, the experience can also include a unique turtle-tagging conservation activity.

Note that you'll need to make your own way to Nguna Island, which is easily accessible from Emua Wharf on the mainland. Learn more about your transport options in the Port Vila & Efate Transport Guide: 10 Ways to Get There (& Around).

Naromin Tours offers an authentic Ni-Vanuatu island experience, taking to the offshore islands of the Havannah Harbour to discover the real Efate.

This locally-operated tour takes you on a scenic 30-minute boat ride to stunning locations, including Lelepa Island and Hat Island, where calm waters provide perfect snorkelling conditions.

The highlight is exploring Pasi's Rock for fish feeding and snorkelling, followed by a visit to the giant clam shell conservation farm where endangered species are being restocked.

What makes this experience special is the genuine cultural component. You'll visit a local village and school, gaining a real insight into how locals live during this heartwarming experience.

The tour includes complimentary transfers from your accommodation, all snorkelling gear, refreshments and lunch on full-day packages. With options ranging from five-hour half-day adventures to eight-hour full-day experiences, plus speciality night fishing charters, there's something for every type of traveller seeking to discover Vanuatu's marine wonders.

That's right, you can travel to Pentecost and watch the famous nangol (land diving) ceremonies and be back in Port Vila for dinner with Unity Airlines.

The ancient Melanesian tradition of naghol sees local men and boys as young as seven diving headfirst from wooden towers up to 30 m (100 ft) high with only vines tied to their ankles.

This sacred fertility ceremony has been performed for centuries to ensure successful yam harvests and prove manhood. The spectacular event includes ritual washing, traditional kastom dances, chanting and ground-stomping ceremonies that create an unforgettable cultural experience.

Unity Airlines operates with a strong focus on safety, maintaining an excellent safety record over its 23 years of operation with no accidents.

With a fleet of five aircraft, including Piper PA-31-350 Chieftains and Britten Norman BN2 Islanders, Unity Airlines can accommodate between four and eight passengers depending on weight restrictions. Their multi-engine aircraft provide enhanced safety and comfort for the journey.

With all that in mind, your scenic flight departs Port Vila at 8:30 am, offering aerial views of lush jungles and coral reefs that create patterns in the ocean. Weather permitting, you'll enjoy a volcanic flyover of Lopevi, Marum and Benbow volcanoes before arriving at Lonorore for a traditional village welcome and to watch around six to 10 jumps.

After the incredible cultural experience, you'll be transported back to Port Vila - how easy was that?!

Strap in for a pothole-filled journey as you take the "Efate Round Island Day Trip" with Nonda Extreme Tours.

This comprehensive 8 to 9-hour island tour showcases Efate's most spectacular natural and cultural highlights in a single unforgettable day. Your air-conditioned journey begins with the immersive Pepeyo Cultural & Educational Tour, where lush tropical bush transports you into traditional village life.

Continue to the enchanting Rarru Cascades along the Rentapao River, just 15 minutes from town, where colourful flora thrives on Efate's most fertile soil and diverse fish species inhabit the clean river waters. The adventure reaches its peak at the famous Blue Lagoon, a turquoise natural swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery, complete with rope swings for the adventurous.

Experience the therapeutic Takara Hot Springs and mud baths at Nasinu, renowned for healing properties that benefit skin conditions and joint pain. Your scenic lunch awaits at Top Rock, where limestone cliffs offer breathtaking views of neighbouring Nguna and Pele islands. The tour concludes with a visit to Tanna Coffee factory, where you'll taste local coffee and tour the facilities with friendly staff guidance.