An exciting port-of-call on the southern coast of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu’s second-largest city has a lovely waterfront boulevard with a busy market.
Experience local culture and easy access to some of Vanuatu’s premier attractions when you base your adventure in Luganville on the archipelago’s largest island. The large port, wide range of tour operators and laid-back atmosphere make Luganville the perfect first destination for your Vanuatu trip. Explore the coast’s unbeatable dive spots and geological formations and spend some time perusing the local produce at the market.
Get acquainted with the city by going for a stroll down its leisurely main road, which stretches along the waterfront. This is where you’ll find the majority of local businesses and tour operators. Look out across the Segond Channel to gorgeous offshore islands as you explore the range of boutiques, cafés and kava bars. At one end of the streets is the Luganville Port, while the other contains the Luganville Market. Near the Sarakata Bridge, the lively market is a meeting place for villagers from all over the island. Try local snacks and drinks or pick up delicious fresh fruit and vegetables.
If you’re ready for some adventure, chat with one of the operators about what tours are available during your stay. Join the guided-tour experience of Millennium Cave to explore an immense grotto in the middle of the rainforest, where waterfalls and rapids spill from the jagged rocks. Go snorkeling or diving at Million Dollar Point to see an underwater gallery of coral-crusted U.S. military equipment, which was dumped here after World War II. Take the ferry to the resort on nearby Aore Island to check out a series of short walking trails. Learn about the Ni Vanuatu people at the Ransuck Cultural Village and listen to water music at Leweton Cultural Village.
Luganville is located on Espiritu Santo’s south coast and has a range of transportation options. Reach the city via Santo-Pekoa International Airport, which is a 15-minute drive from the center of Luganville, or via its cruise port terminal. Taxis and buses are easily accessible. Book your accommodations at a waterfront resort or hotel for pretty island views. Also known as Santo and Kanal, Luganville is a fantastic first stop for your Vanuatu vacation.
