The Guide to the Religions in Vanuatu

Christianity is the dominant religion in Vanuatu, with nearly the entire population identifying with a Christian denomination. Religion plays a central role in daily life, and Sundays are widely observed as a sacred day of worship and rest.

Where to Experience Christianity in Vanuatu as a Tourist

Visitors are welcome to attend Sunday church services, which are held in nearly every village across the islands. Churches often serve as community centres, and attending a service is a great way to experience local culture, from the powerful a cappella hymns to the traditional attire worn by locals.

On Efate, for example, Port Vila has several historic churches, including the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu, where services are open to visitors.

Note that anyone going to a church in Vanuatu needs to dress respectfully, covering their knees and shoulders. Think your Sunday best! See more tips in the 5 Best Churches in Vanuatu to Experience as a Visitor LINK#TTD006.

Many public holidays and celebrations in Vanuatu are linked to Christianity, including Christmas, Easter, and local observances such as National Youth Day and church anniversaries, which you can learn more about in our guide to Public Holidays in Vanuatu (& Other Important Dates) LINK#TTD024.

Christian Denominations Represented in Vanuatu

According to the Vanuatu National Statistics Office and the Association of Religion Data Archives (ARDA), approximately 79.2% of the population identifies as Christian. Among Christians, the largest groups are:

• Presbyterians: 27.2% (largest Protestant group, part of the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu)
• Roman Catholics: 12.1%
• Other Protestants (including Anglicans, Methodists, and Seventh-day Adventists): 39.9%

The Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu, introduced by missionaries from the London Missionary Society in the 19th century, remains highly influential, especially in rural areas, and is closely linked to traditional community structures.

The Catholic Church has multiple dioceses across the islands, including the Diocese of Port Vila and the Diocese of Luganville, overseeing dozens of parishes with local clergy serving urban and rural congregations.

Other Christian groups, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), and various Pentecostal movements, also have a growing presence, reflecting the diversity of Christian practice in Vanuatu today.

The remaining percentage of religions in Vanuatu is composed of smaller affiliations, including followers of other faiths, non-religious individuals, and those practicing customary beliefs.

Other Religion Denominations Represented in Vanuatu

• Customary beliefs: 3.09% - Some communities continue to practice traditional indigenous customs and spirituality, often alongside Christian practices.
• Minor religions: 13.76% - This includes small communities of Bahá’ís, Buddhists, and other faiths.
• Non-religious / no religion / refused to answer: 3.87% - A small segment of the population identifies as agnostic, atheist, or chose not to state a religion.

While Christianity dominates Vanuatu, these smaller groups reflect the diversity of beliefs across the islands. Customary beliefs remain significant in certain communities, often intertwined with local traditions and cultural practices.

Non-religious individuals represent a very small proportion of the population, and other faiths, including Bahá’ís, Buddhists, or other minor groups, have only a limited presence.

Visitors may encounter these practices mainly in remote or rural areas, where ancestral and local traditions continue to play an important role in daily life.

Now that you know about the religious landscape in Vanuatu, here are the answers to the internet's frequently asked questions about religion in Vanuatu!

What is the main religion in Vanuatu?

Christianity is the predominant religion in Vanuatu, with approximately 79.2% of the population identifying as Christian. The largest denominations include Presbyterian, Anglican, Catholic and various evangelical churches.

Are there traditional beliefs still practised in Vanuatu?

Yes, traditional kastom beliefs remain influential alongside Christianity. Many ni-Vanuatu combine Christian practices with ancestral worship, traditional ceremonies and beliefs in spirits connected to the land and sea.

What is the John Frum movement in Vanuatu?

The John Frum movement is a cargo cult that began on Tanna island in the 1930s. Followers believe that an American figure named John Frum will return bringing prosperity and cargo (goods). The movement combines traditional beliefs with elements inspired by American military presence during World War II.

Can tourists visit religious sites in Vanuatu?

Yes, many churches and some traditional sacred sites welcome respectful visitors. However, always ask permission before photographing religious ceremonies or entering sacred areas, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Are there religious festivals in Vanuatu?

Vanuatu celebrates both Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter, as well as traditional festivals that often combine Christian and kastom elements. The most famous is the Nekowiar festival on Tanna, which combines traditional dancing, feasting and spiritual ceremonies.

Is Vanuatu religiously tolerant?

Yes, Vanuatu generally demonstrates religious tolerance. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and different Christian denominations, traditional beliefs and even smaller religious minorities coexist peacefully throughout the archipelago.