10 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) 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 pristine white sand beaches surrounded by jungle-clad hills.

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.

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.

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.

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 Turtle Sanctuary in Port Vila, where you'll observe magnificent sea turtles up close in their protected habitat. 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.

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

Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and cultural encounters all rolled into one incredible day out; this sailing adventure ticks every box.

Your day kicks off with convenient hotel transfers to Gideon's Landing, where you'll step aboard a gorgeous yacht for your journey through 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.

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 Tranquillity Island Resort.

If you're looking for an unforgettable marine adventure, this eco-resort on Moso Island should be at the top of your list. They have a dedicated turtle sanctuary, where baby hatchlings are lovingly cared for until they're ready to take on ocean life.

It's one of the best places to spot hawksbill and green turtles gracefully grazing on seagrass around the pristine house reef, which non-guests can experience by taking a full-day adventure that includes scenic transfers by road and boat, a delicious lunch, guided snorkelling sessions, access to bush walking trails and complimentary kayak use.

Scuba divers, don't miss the chance to add a dive package and explore the numerous sites around Moso Island. New to diving? We recommend trying their "Discover Scuba" session.

The resort's "Island Explorer" day cruise offers another fantastic way to experience these crystal-clear waters. Their dive shop in Port Vila makes booking a breeze with convenient hotel pickups.

This comprehensive sightseeing tour with Evergreen Vanuatu offers first-time visitors a perfect introduction to Port Vila, covering all the essential landmarks and hidden gems across the township and its suburbs.

Your journey begins with hotel pickup and takes you past key historical sites including Parliament House, the Cultural Centre (museum), colonial-era British and French jailhouses, local schools and the hospital.

Beyond the standard tourist trail, you'll discover where locals socialise, dine and shop, with insider knowledge about the best restaurants, cafés, money exchange services and banks. The tour showcases Port Vila's most picturesque spots whilst revealing fascinating stories about the colonial years under French and British rule.

Your guide will point out everything from quick eats to extraordinary dining experiences, popular local bars, and the finest duty-free shopping for perfumes, sunglasses, bags and electronics. You'll also drive past vibrant arts and crafts markets and vegetable stalls, giving you the lay of the land for independent exploration later.