Santo - Discovering Vanuatu

Travelling to Santo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santo, a pretty good destination in Vanuatu (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vanuatu, here's everything to know about Santo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santo

Santo is the largest island in the Vanuatu archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, pristine coral reefs, and World War II history. The island is a popular tourist destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water-based activities. Santo is also home to several cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing the diverse heritage and traditions of the local people. The island has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 25-30°C year-round. Santo has a small airport with daily flights to and from Port Vila.

What to visit in Santo

Santo, Vanuatu is known for its beautiful beaches, natural landmarks, and World War II history. Some of the top tourist attractions in Santo are: 1. Champagne Beach - Champagne Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
2. Million Dollar Point - Million Dollar Point is a great place for diving and snorkeling, as it sits at the bottom of a shallow bay and is home to many different types of marine life. It was also the site where the US military dumped millions of dollars worth of military equipment at the end of World War II.
3. Mount Hope Waterfall - Mount Hope Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in the rainforest of Santo. It is a great place to hike, swim, and take photos.
4. Millennium Cave - The Millennium Cave is a popular adventure tour in Santo. The cave is over 10km long and visitors can explore it by hiking, swimming, and abseiling.
5. SS President Coolidge - The SS President Coolidge is a famous wreck dive in Santo. It was a luxury liner that was converted into a troop ship during World War II and sank after hitting a mine.
6. Blue Holes - The Blue Holes are a series of crystal-clear freshwater swimming holes that are surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing.
7. Oyster Island - Oyster Island is a small island off the coast of Santo. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and exploring the coral reefs.
8. Santo Horse Adventures - Santo Horse Adventures offers horseback riding tours through the beautiful countryside of Santo. It is a great way to see the island's natural beauty and learn about its history.
9. Nanda Blue Hole - The Nanda Blue Hole is another beautiful freshwater swimming hole that is surrounded by towering trees. It is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vanuatu, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santo.

When to go on holiday to Santo

The best time to visit Santo, Vanuatu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures ranging from 23 to 29 degrees Celsius, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine. The wet season in Santo is usually between November to April and can experience heavy rainfall with occasional tropical storms. However, it is worth noting that even during the wet season, there are still many sunny days, and it is less crowded with tourists. Overall, May to October is the best time to go on holiday to Santo.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santo

Santo is an island located in Vanuatu. The easiest way to get to Santo is to fly into the international airport in Port Vila, which is the capital city of Vanuatu, and then take a domestic flight to Santo.
Here are the steps to follow: 1. Check for direct flights to Port Vila from your current location. Airlines such as Air Nauru, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Fiji Airways, and Air New Zealand offer flights from different countries.
2. Once you arrive at Port Vila, you will need to transfer to an internal flight to Santo. Air Vanuatu operates daily flights to Santo from Port Vila, with the flight duration of about 50 minutes. Other airlines, such as Unity Airlines, also offer domestic flights to Santo.
3. You can either book your flights in advance or purchase them at the airport on arrival. It is advisable to book your flights in advance during peak periods to avoid disappointment.
4. Once you arrive at Santo, you can hire a taxi or a local bus to take you to your accommodations or your next destination. It is recommended that you pre-book your transfer to avoid any hassles.
I hope that helps you plan your trip to Santo in Vanuatu. Have a great trip!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santo

Sure, here are some typical foods of Santo in Vanuatu along with a short description for each of them: 1. Lap Lap - This is a traditional dish made from grated root vegetables, usually taro or yam, mixed with coconut milk and sometimes meat or fish. The mixture is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven.
2. Coconut Crab - Considered a delicacy, coconut crab is a large land crab that lives in coconut trees and feeds on fallen fruit. It is usually cooked by steaming or grilling and is known for its sweet and succulent meat.
3. Nalot - This is a dish made from a variety of vegetables and boiled or roasted meat, usually pork or beef. The vegetables can include taro, yam, cassava, and green leafy vegetables.
4. Bougna - Bougna is a dish made from a combination of root vegetables, meat, coconut milk, and spinach-like greens. The ingredients are wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven.
5. Lap Lap White - Similar to traditional lap lap, lap lap white is made from grated cassava instead of taro or yam. It is typically served with coconut cream or sugar.
6. Fresh Seafood - As Santo is an island, fresh seafood is readily available. Popular options include lobsters, prawns, crabs, and tuna, which are grilled or steamed and served with local herbs and spices.
7. Nasi Goreng - While not a traditional Santo dish, nasi goreng is a popular Indonesian-style fried rice dish that is commonly found in Vanuatu. It is made with rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood, and is often served with a fried egg on top.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Santo, Vanuatu!
You can find general info about typical foods in Vanuatu here.

Is Santo an expensive destination for tourists?

Santo, Vanuatu can be considered an expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to other similar destinations in the Pacific region. The cost of living in Vanuatu is generally higher than in many other countries, and this is reflected in the prices of accommodation, food, and activities on Santo Island. However, there are still ways to save money during your trip such as staying in budget-friendly hotels or homestays, eating at local restaurants, and taking advantage of free activities such as hiking and visiting beaches. It's always a good idea to budget carefully when planning a trip to Santo Island to ensure that you make the most of your trip while sticking to your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Santo

There are several areas in Santo, Vanuatu where you can find good accommodation to explore the island. Some popular options include: 1. Luganville: This is the main town of Santo, and it's best to start your search for accommodation here. There are several budget-friendly guesthouses and mid-range hotels in the town.
2. Champagne Beach: If you want to stay near the famous Champagne Beach, you can consider booking accommodation in the nearby villages of Hog Harbour or Port Olry.
3. East Coast: The east coast of Santo is less developed and more remote, but it offers stunning natural beauty. There are a few eco-lodges and camping sites available for those who want to stay in this area.
4. Oyster Island: This small island is located just off the coast of Santo and can be reached by boat. There's a luxury resort on the island that offers overwater bungalows and private villas.
Overall, it's recommended to choose accommodation that's close to the attractions you want to visit to make the most out of your trip to Santo.
You can check hotel prices at Santo here:
Booking.com

Is Santo a safe destination for tourists?

Vanuatu, as a whole, is generally a safe and welcoming destination for visitors. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas, so it's best to take precautions like keeping valuables secure, being vigilant, and avoiding isolated areas at night. It's also recommended to check with local authorities or your accommodation provider about any safety concerns or areas to avoid. Overall, Santo is a beautiful tropical destination that is worth exploring, but as with any travel destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety measures.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vanuatu here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santo the most?

Santo, Vanuatu caters to all types of travelers. It is a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of secluded spots for a romantic escapade. Families can enjoy exploring the historical and cultural sites, including the WWII relics and museums, as well as engaging in some exciting water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
Young people looking for fun can engage in beach parties and nightclubs, especially during peak season. Overall, Santo, Vanuatu offers a little something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Santo

In Santo (Vanuatu), visitors can move around using various modes of transportation, such as taxis, buses, car rentals, and bicycles. Taxis are the most popular means of transport for tourists, and they can be easily hailed anywhere on the streets. Buses are also available for transportation, but they are slower and less comfortable than taxis. Car rentals are ideal for groups or families who want to explore Santo independently. Bicycles can also be rented to enjoy cycling around the island. Depending on your preference and budget, you can choose the mode of transportation that suits you best.

What to see around Santo

Sure, there are several nice places to visit on a day trip from Santo, Vanuatu. Here are a few options: 1) Millenium Cave: This is a beautiful cave with stunning features such as underwater rivers, waterfalls, and rocky formations. You can book a guided tour that includes transportation from Santo.
2) Blue Holes: The Blue Holes consist of a series of natural pools and lagoons. They are crystal clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.
3) Champagne Beach: This is a beautiful white sand beach with clear turquoise waters. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
4) Oyster Island: Oyster Island is a small islet off the coast of Santo. It is a perfect spot for diving, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach.
5) Mount Hope Waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall nestled in the forest. It is a great spot for hiking and swimming.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places available to visit on a day trip from Santo, Vanuatu.
For every travel information about Vanuatu you can click here.

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