8 Of The Best Full-Day Tours In Vanuatu

Vanuatu offers a fantastic variety of full-day tours that showcase its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Unlike many island destinations, Vanuatu’s tours often combine multiple experiences, making the most of your day whether you’re after underwater adventures, cultural insights, or scenic drives. We especially like the Full Day Snorkelling Cruise in Tranquility Island Resort for its combination of pristine waters and conservation efforts, or the Full-Day Scenic Tour around Efate to get a broad taste of island life and tradition. If you’re curious about island history, the Full Day Santo Blue Hole and Champagne Beach Tour pairs natural wonders with relaxing beaches. These tours deliver rich, authentic experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing, often including local cuisine, traditional dance, and engaging guides.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a broad spectrum of full-day adventures — from snorkeling and kayaking, to cultural tours, island hikes, and private shore excursions. Whether you want to explore Efate’s reefs, learn about local village life, or enjoy private tailored experiences, there’s something here for everyone. Each option offers a mix of highlights, practical details, and genuine Vanuatu charm, with full descriptions and links and more.

1. Full Day Snorkelling Cruise in Tranquility Island Resort

At number 1, this snorkelling cruise around Efate wins points for its superb combination of water activities and relaxed island time. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Port Vila, whisking you through lush terrain to Havanah Harbour. From there, you board a boat via tender, heading out in the rain shadow side of Efate, which typically enjoys better weather—something snorkelers will appreciate. The highlight is the visit to Tranquility Island, where conservation efforts for hawksbill turtles take center stage. You can learn about these creatures and relax on the white sand beaches, or rent a kayak for a paddle in clear waters.

The day includes an authentic barbecue lunch on the beach, featuring local steak with salads and French bread, plus cold drinks. Snorkeling in waters around Moso Island reveals coral reefs teeming with sea life, including turtles and eels—reviewers frequently mention seeing multiple turtles during their trips. Non-swimmers can relax on the beach or try kayaking and bush walks. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with round-trip transfers included. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of sun, sea, and scenic sailing with a focus on conservation and natural beauty.

Bottom Line: A relaxing, well-rounded day for snorkelers and beach lovers, great value for the comprehensive experience and eco-focus.

2. Full-Day Scenic Tour around the Island Tour from Port Vila

Number 2 on our list offers a well-balanced introduction to Efate’s culture and landscapes. Starting with hotel pickup, the full-day scenic tour from Port Vila takes you to Iarofa Village, where you’ll see traditional practices in action. The tour also visits Pepyo Cultural Village, where local dance and fire-walking displays reveal living traditions.

A highlight is the stop at Blue Lagoon, a naturally salty, intensely blue water spot ideal for swimming and rope swings. The final stop, Top Rock, offers an elevated view of Efate and surrounding islands, perfect for snapping photos. The tour includes a Melanesian buffet lunch, giving you a taste of local cuisine. Reviewers note the guide’s deep knowledge about the island’s history and culture, making it a great choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Bottom Line: An excellent, all-in-one cultural and scenic introduction that’s especially suited for first-time visitors seeking a balanced overview of Efate.

3. Full Day River Kayaking & Cascades from Port Vila

Number 3 focuses on active travelers—kayaking, swimming, and exploring Vanuatu’s rainforest. This 6-hour tour starts with hotel pickup, then heads to the Rentapao River for approximately two hours of kayaking. With guides sharing insights into local village life and rainforest ecology, it’s a hands-on cultural experience as well as a chance to enjoy the river’s calm waters.

After kayaking, you’ll have a French-style lunch before heading to Crystal Cascades, where you can swim and relax in cool, refreshing water. Reviews praise the guides’ professionalism and the tour’s scenic quality—“The kayaking was beautiful, and the waterfall was very fun,” says one. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a taste of Vanuatu’s lush landscapes.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a blend of adventure and natural beauty, with strong local and ecological elements.

4. Nguna Island Full Day Hike and Snorkeling Adventure from Port Vila

Rated a perfect 5/5, this tour offers outer island exploration with a trek and snorkel. It begins very early, with an 8:00 am start, supporting a full day of activity. You choose between a volcano hike atop Mt. Marou, which rewards you with sweeping views over the Shepherd Islands, or a more relaxed Village Walk. Whichever option you select, the hike is steep and takes about 3.5 hours, so it’s best suited for fit travelers.

Later in the day, you visit Pele Island for snorkeling and a local village feast. The guides are noted for their knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and fun. Reviewers highlight the stunning views from the volcano hike and the chance to support conservation efforts. It’s a full-day adventure that combines active exploration with culture, ideal for those seeking an authentic island experience.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive day of trekking, snorkeling, and cultural discovery, suited for active travelers who love hiking and local stories.

5. Full Day Santo Blue Hole, Champagne Beach, Million Dollar Point & Port Olry Tour

Number 5 offers a classic Santo experience. This 8-hour tour covers spectacular natural sites and historical spots, starting with the Nanda Blue Hole, often rated as one of the best in Vanuatu. The tour continues to Champagne Beach, renowned for its soft white sands and calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Next, you’ll visit Million Dollar Point, where remnants of WWII machinery lie embedded in coral, telling stories of the island’s wartime history. The day ends at Port Olry, a peaceful village with pristine beaches and lush surroundings. Reviews mention the beauty of the Blue Hole and the interesting history at Million Dollar Point. The combination of natural beauty and history makes this tour ideal for travelers wanting variety.

Bottom Line: An engaging mix of natural wonders and historical sites, suited for those who want both relaxation and storytelling.

6. Full Day Private Shore Tour: Taste of the Tropics in Port Vila

This private 7-hour tour provides a personalized experience, starting with a visit to the Aelan Chocolate Factory, where you can see the full chocolate-making process. From there, the tour moves to Blue Lagoon, where swimming and fun rope swings are on offer. The highlight for many is the Turtle Sanctuary, where you can feed turtles and enjoy a coastal lunch.

The tour also offers duty-free shopping, making it perfect for picking up souvenirs or gifts. Because it’s private, guides tailor the experience to your interests, which is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, intimate tour. Although reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on local food, wildlife, and shopping makes this a well-rounded choice.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a flexible, private experience with a good mix of local flavors, wildlife, and shopping.

7. Full Day Private Shore Tour: Taste, Sea & Swim in Port Vila

Number 7 is a private 7-hour tour perfect for those who want a mix of culinary, aquatic, and scenic experiences. Starting at the cruise port, you’ll visit Tanna Coffee for a “tree to cup” experience, then head to Hideaway Island Marine Reserve to snorkel, visit the Underwater Post Office, and relax at the beachside café. The tour wraps up with a swim at Blue Lagoon and some local shopping.

This tour is ideal for those who want a personalized, all-in-one day of tasting, swimming, and exploring. It’s a good choice if your time in port is limited but you want to see a variety of highlights with expert guidance.

Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or families wanting a customized, all-in-one experience with plenty of activities.

8. Vanuatu Island Discovery: Full Day Private Shore Tour from Port

At number 8, this 7-hour private tour takes you in comfort around Efate, with stops at Paradise Beach, local villages, and wartime relics. The tour emphasizes local flavors, with visits to coffee tasting and rum sampling at 83 Islands Distillery. You’ll also visit Eton Beach for swimming or relaxing, and explore historical WWII relics.

The guide’s local knowledge shines through, offering insights into both natural sites and cultural history. This tour is tailored for travelers who prefer a private, relaxed pace and want to sample both natural beauty and local spirits.

Bottom Line: An elegant, flexible way to experience Efate’s sights and tastes at your own pace, perfect for those wanting exclusivity and comfort.

How to Choose

When selecting your full-day Vanuatu tour, consider your interests and physical fitness. If snorkeling and marine life are your focus, the Full Day Snorkelling Cruise offers a relaxed, eco-conscious experience. For culture, the Scenic Island Tour or the Nguna Island Hike provide engaging insights into local traditions and landscapes.

Active travelers should look at the River Kayaking & Cascades, which combines adventure with scenic beauty, or the Nguna Island Hike. If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the Taste of the Tropics or the Vanuatu Island Discovery are excellent options, especially if you prioritize comfort and flexibility.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak cruise seasons or holiday periods. Consider your budget, physical activity level, and specific interests—whether underwater exploration, cultural insights, or scenic drives—to pick the best fit.

Vanuatu’s full-day tours offer a wide array of experiences, from snorkeling and hiking to cultural encounters and private tailored trips. Whether you’re after an active day, a relaxing beach day, or an immersive cultural journey, these options help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island nation. For a memorable visit, pick your tour early and prepare for an authentic, engaging day in paradise.