⚠️ Timetables, opening hours, prices and access conditions may change without notice, for reasons beyond our control (season, weather, decisions by operators, venues or local authorities). Before every trip, check the information with the relevant authorities and service providers.
Car, minibus or small plane: getting around Vanuatu
Car hire is only available on Efate and Espiritu Santo, where the main roads are sealed; you drive on the right and the speed limit is 50 km/h. Elsewhere, you get around by minibus, by taxi at a negotiated fare, on a small Air Vanuatu plane or by boat: timetables and conditions can change, so check with operators before each trip.
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Local company with prices published online, from small city cars to 4x4s, with compulsory insurance charged extra.
Official websitevanuaturentalcars.com→Budget franchise with delivery to the airport and hotels; large deposit and a surcharge for card payments.
Official websiterentalcarsvanuatu.com→International agency; credit card in the driver’s name, and an international permit required if your licence is not in English or French.
Official websiteeuropcar.co.uk→Avis agency at Asco Motors, open on weekdays, handy for reaching Champagne Beach and the Blue Holes.
Official websiteavis.com→SUVs hired by the day, for use on sealed roads; credit card required.
Official websitethe-espiritu.com→Local company present on both islands where you can drive.
Official websitecarhire.vu→National airline, now domestic only: Tanna, Santo, Malekula, Pentecost, Ambae, Epi, Banks Islands; delays are frequent, so allow some leeway.
Official websiteairvanuatu.com→Charter flights and day trips to Mount Yasur and the Gol land dive.
Official websiteunity-airlines.com→Minibuses with “B” number plates and no fixed route, flagged down with a wave: 150 to 200 VT in town. Taxis have no meter: agree the fare before setting off.
| Where to hire | Only on Efate (Port Vila) and Espiritu Santo (Luganville) |
|---|---|
| Driving | On the right, generally 50 km/h; sealed roads on Efate and Santo, dirt tracks elsewhere |
| Licence | National licence accepted for 3 months on a tourist stay; international permit recommended |
| Minibuses and taxis | “B” minibuses: 150 to 200 VT in town; unmetered taxis, airport to centre about 2,500 VT |
| Between islands | Air Vanuatu domestic flights; MV Blue Wota ferry Port Vila–Luganville, about 10 hrs 30 |
Can you hire a car in Vanuatu?
Yes, on Efate and Espiritu Santo only. On the other islands, you get around by truck-taxi, on foot or with a guide.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Vanuatu?
On the right, as in France, despite the British heritage.
Do I need an international driving permit?
Your national licence is accepted for a tourist stay; some rental companies ask for an international permit if your licence is not in English or French.
How do I get from Port Vila to Santo?
By plane with Air Vanuatu, or on the MV Blue Wota fast ferry twice a week (about 10 hours 30 minutes).
Information checked in November 2026 — confirm with operators and accommodation before you travel.