Feeling stuck in the daily grind? Snap out of your mundane routines with Vanuatu’s Wake-Up Call. Just three hours from the East Coast, Vanuatu invites you to Answer the Call to experience real, life-changing adventures.
We know how good travel feels when life has been a bit meh, but did you know it’s really good for you? Neuroscience has proven new experiences stimulate the brain, improve your memory, reduce stress, and release happy hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin.
A trip to Vanuatu’s archipelago of 83 islands is not just a flop-and-drop break. It’s a chance to get out of the humdrum and invigorate your soul. Dive into vibrant blue holes, immerse yourself in cultural villages, and trek lush jungles trails.
You should probably go and tell your boss right now that neuroscience says you must jet off to answer Vanuatu’s Wake-Up Call, ASAP!
Follow Ray’s Way
Kiwi comedian Ray O’Leary is known for his humdrum vibes, his deadpan humour perfectly complemented by the kind of grey suit Gary from Accounts loves.
A reluctant adventurer, O’Leary answered Vanuatu’s Wake-Up Call, showing the heart of the Islands of Smiles across seven humour-filled videos.
O’Leary stepped out of his comfort zone into uplifting adventures that he never saw coming. Keen to follow in his (sensible shoes) footsteps? Check out this handy itinerary to follow Ray’s Way.
The right kind of Wake-Up Call
With four international airlines flying from Brisbane and Sydney (including Qantas daily flying from March 2026), Vanuatu is closer and more irresistible than ever.
Just like everyone has a different alarm tone in the morning – some as jarring as a fire alarm, some waking gently to birds tweeting – Vanuatu offers different ‘Wake-Up Call’ options ready for you to leave your stress behind.
Here are our top picks:
Efate/Port Vila
With direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane to Port Vila (3.5 hours and 3 hours flight time respectively), you could be switching out boardroom boredom for the Blue Lagoon and beach bars in no time!
- The Blue Lagoon: Only 45 minutes from Port Vila, marvel at the Blue Lagoon’s bold hues, snorkel its refreshing waters, and let loose as you swing from a rope before making the kind of splash you’d never dare make in the workplace.
- Ekasup Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in Vanuatu’s Indigenous culture at Ekasup Cultural Village, where you can learn about hunting, basket weaving, and ancient traditions.
- Eden on the River: This eco-park has fun for the whole tribe, with swimming holes, suspension bridges, mini golf, and hiking trails.
- Hire a Mini Moke: Head to World Car Rentals to rent a Mini Moke (a cute doorless vehicle) to explore Port Vila and Efate in the most fun way imaginable!
Espiritu Santo
Did you know you can fly direct from Brisbane to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu’s largest island? It’s a destination chock-full of attractions! Like:
- Riri Blue Hole: Surrounded by lush greenery, the clarity of Riri Blue Hole’s water is so vibrant you’d think it was fake if you weren’t right there. Relaxing here is the ultimate Wake-Up call that mundane is out and adventures are in!
- Leweton Cultural Village: Traditional dances, kava lessons, and the mesmerising sound of the Ladies of Leweton’s magical Water Music make this a fascinating visit. Even more so when you know it’s hosted by related families from six nearby villages.
- Port Olry: Feel as far from your desk as possible at postcard-perfect Port Olry Beach. Palms line the white sand and turquoise waters on the island’s northeastern tip.
- Champagne Beach: Soft white sand, clear waters, and ambience so chill, your brain naturally switches off, Champagne Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
Tanna
Connect your international flight with Air Vanuatu to light a fire in your life at the edge of the world’s most accessible active volcano on Tanna! It’s one of the island’s amazing attractions:
- Mount Yasur: For a short volcano (it’s 300 metres above sea level), Mount Yasur packs a mighty punch. Erupting frequently since 1774, this is your chance to day tour close to the action; It’s so accessible, a 4WD can get you to within 150 metres of Yasur’s rim!
- The Blue Cave: Dreamlike and serene, swim and snorkel inside this spectacular sea grotto, taking time to float serenely in the sunlight beams through the cave’s roof.
- Port Resolution: A strong local flavour and quaint bungalow accommodation add to the appeal of Port Resolution’s white-sand beaches, hot springs, and marine-rich waters.
Vanuatu’s outer islands
If you’re really looking to switch things up in your life, connect with an Air Vanuatu domestic flight to Vanuatu’s outer islands to discover wilderness, natural wonders, and ancient traditions.
Wake-Up and visit:
- Malekula: Low-key, culturally rich, and lush, Malekula is Vanuatu’s second-largest island, with hiking a big draw, especially the Manbush Trail and treks to Losinwei Waterfalls. You can also meet the Nambas Tribes here, connecting to their traditions and heritage.
- Pentecost Island: The reefs surrounding Pentecost Island teem with aquatic life – great for snorkellers and divers alike. Visit from April to June to also see Naghol (land diving), a rite of passage for young men who jump off wooden platforms with only vines tied to their ankles.
- Maskelynes: Wildlife is an excellent way to connect to your natural rhythm, especially in Maskelynes, where you can spot the elusive dugong! A global hotspot for these fascinating marine mammals, take a conservation-focused tour to encounter these ‘sea cows’.
- Ambrym: Is one volcano not enough to shake things up? How about two in Ambrym, where Mount Marum and Benbow are renowned for their lava lakes and kastom traditions. The unique vegetation on the caldera floor makes it a great spot for hiking.
Learn more
Respond to Vanuatu’s Wake-Up Call here, then speak to your preferred travel agent to book.
This article is brought to you by Vanuatu Tourism Office.
