Espiritu Santo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Espiritu Santo. Read our comprehensive guide today.


Introduction to Espiritu Santo

Espiritu Santo is an island located in Vanuatu, a beautiful island country in Melanesia, Oceania. It is the largest island in the archipelago and is known for its pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Espiritu Santo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and beach bums alike.

List of Places to Visit in Espiritu Santo

If you are planning a trip to Espiritu Santo, here are some of the must-visit places you should include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Million Dollar Point: This is a popular diving and snorkeling site, where you can see a large collection of military equipment that was dumped here by the US Military after World War II.

  • Nanda Blue Hole: This is a stunning natural pool with crystal clear turquoise water that is perfect for swimming. It is located in the heart of Santo’s lush jungle and is surrounded by beautiful tropical foliage.

  • Royal Australasian Navy (RAN) Museum: This museum displays a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the Royal Australian Navy’s involvement in the Pacific during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Espiritu Santo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Champagne Beach: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with pristine white sand and turquoise water. The beach is named for the way the waves gently fizz like champagne on the shore.

  • Mount Hope Waterfall: This is a stunning waterfall located in the heart of Santo’s tropical forest. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and is an ideal spot for a refreshing swim.

  • Riri Blue Hole: This is another gorgeous natural pool in Santo that is perfect for swimming. The water is crystal clear and a beautiful blue-green color, and there are swings and ropes available for visitors to play on.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Espiritu Santo

Santo is an excellent place for nature lovers, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Millennium Cave Tour: This is a guided tour that takes you on a hike through the rainforest to the impressive Millennium Cave. The tour includes swimming, waterfall jumping, and a traditional Melanesian lunch.

  • Mount Tabwemasana: This is the highest peak in Vanuatu, and the hike to the summit is challenging but rewarding. You’ll be surrounded by stunning views, including the neighboring islands.

  • Pakoa Coastal Walk: This is an easy and scenic walk that takes you along Santo’s gorgeous coastline. You’ll pass through villages and see traditional Melanesian homes while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

Best Things to Do in Espiritu Santo: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking, swimming, and snorkeling, there are plenty of other fun activities to do in Santo. Here are some of the best tours and activities:

  • Espiritu Santo Blue Holes Tour: This is a guided tour that takes you to some of the most stunning blue holes on the island. You’ll get to swim, jump, and play in the crystal clear water and enjoy a traditional Melanesian lunch.

  • WWII Historical Tour: This is a tour that takes you to some of the most significant World War II sites on the island, including the Million Dollar Point and the Aore Island Wreck Dive.

  • Beach Day Tour: This is a tour that takes you to some of the best beaches in Santo, including Champagne Beach and Port Olry Beach. You’ll get to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a traditional Melanesian lunch.

Week-Long Itinerary for Espiritu Santo

To make the most of your time in Santo, here’s an example of a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Champagne Beach
2 Millennium Cave Tour
3 Nanda Blue Hole and Riri Blue Hole
4 Pakoa Coastal Walk and Royal Australasian Navy Museum
5 Espiritu Santo Blue Holes Tour
6 Mount Tabwemasana
7 Beach Day Tour and Mount Hope Waterfall

Food and Drink Scene of Espiritu Santo

When it comes to food and drink, Santo has plenty of delicious local cuisine and traditional drinks to enjoy.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lap Lap: This is a dish made with yams and meat or fish, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven. It is a traditional Melanesian dish and is a must-try.

  • Rourou Soup: This is a soup made with taro leaves and coconut milk, similar to spinach soup. It is a comforting and hearty dish and is perfect for cooler evenings.

  • Kokoda: This is a traditional Vanuatu dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, coconut cream, and various spices. It is fresh and flavorful and is perfect for warm evenings.

Local Beverages

  • Kava: This is a traditional drink made from the root of the kava plant. It is said to have relaxing and calming properties and is a staple of Melanesian culture.

  • Tusker Beer: This is a local beer that is brewed in Vanuatu. It is light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot day on the beach.

Where to Stay in Espiritu Santo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santo has plenty of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • Ratua Island Resort and Spa: This is a luxury resort located on its private island. It features traditional Melanesian-style bungalows, and there are plenty of activities available, including kayaking, snorkeling, and horseback riding.

  • Beachfront Resort: This is a mid-range resort located on Oyster Island, just a short boat ride from Santo. It features beachfront bungalows and offers a range of water sports activities.

  • Budget Accommodation: There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options in Santo, including hostels and guesthouses. These are perfect for travelers looking to save money while still enjoying all the wonders Santo has to offer.

What to Buy in Espiritu Santo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to bring home from Santo, here are some of the best local products to look out for:

  • Tapa Cloth: This is a traditional cloth made from the bark of trees. It is often used for clothing or decoration and is a beautiful and unique item to bring home.

  • Handicrafts: There are plenty of local artisans in Santo who produce beautiful handicrafts, including wood carvings, woven baskets, and traditional jewelry.

  • Local Coffee: Vanuatu is known for its high-quality coffee, and there are plenty of local coffee shops and markets where you can buy fresh coffee to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Espiritu Santo

Melanesian culture is rich and diverse, and there are plenty of customs and traditions to discover in Santo. Here are some of the most important cultural practices:

  • Kava Ceremonies: Kava is an essential part of Melanesian culture, and there are often kava ceremonies held for special occasions or as a way of welcoming visitors.

  • Traditional Dance: Traditional dance is an important part of Melanesian culture, and there are often performances held at village celebrations and festivals.

  • Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is an important part of Melanesian culture, and visitors are encouraged to show respect and deference to older members of the community.

Best Time to Visit Espiritu Santo

The best time to visit Santo is between April and October, when the weather is dry and sunny. November to March is the rainy season, and it can be hot and humid. However, even during the rainy season, there are often periods of sunny weather, so it’s still possible to enjoy Santo’s beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Espiritu Santo

When visiting Santo, here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home.

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or cultural sites.

Don’t:

  • Touch people’s heads, as this is considered disrespectful in Melanesian culture.

  • Take photographs without permission, especially of people or cultural events.

  • Enter a village or someone’s home without being invited.

Safety and Health

Santo is a relatively safe place to visit, but it’s important to take necessary precautions and be aware of potential risks.

Safety in Espiritu Santo

  • Petty crime can occur, so it’s important to take care of your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

  • Be cautious when swimming or snorkeling, especially near reefs or strong currents.

  • Always wear protective gear when participating in adventure activities, such as hiking, diving, or cycling.

Health in Espiritu Santo

  • It’s essential to drink only bottled or purified water, and to avoid ice or uncooked foods that may have been washed in untreated water.

  • Be prepared for mosquito bites and protect yourself with mosquito repellent or long clothing.

  • Medical facilities in Santo are limited, so it’s important to have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Espiritu Santo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Santo is easily accessible by air and sea, with regular flights and ferry services available.

Airports Near Espiritu Santo

The main airport on Santo island is Pekoa International Airport, which has regular flights from Port Vila and other major Pacific cities.

Bus Stations Near Espiritu Santo

There are no bus services on Santo island, but taxis are available.

Other Options

There are regular ferry services from Port Vila to Santo, but these can be less reliable than flights.

How to Get Around in Espiritu Santo

The easiest way to get around Santo is by hiring a car or taxi. There are also local buses, but these tend to be infrequent and unreliable.

Where to Go Next from Espiritu Santo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to extend your stay in Vanuatu, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth considering:

  • Tanna Island: This is another beautiful island in Vanuatu, known for its active volcano, Mount Yasur.

  • Port Vila: This is the capital of Vanuatu and is located on the island of Efate. It is a bustling city with plenty of restaurants, shops, and historical sites to explore.

  • Blue Holes, Pentecost Island: A remote and rugged island in Vanuatu, known for their mystical blue holes.

Conclusion

Espiritu Santo is an incredible destination that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and range of activities and tours, Santo is sure to delight and thrill any visitor. We hope that this comprehensive guide has given you a better understanding of all that Santo has to offer, and we look forward to welcoming you to this stunning island paradise.