Luganville, Vanuatu

Vanuatu's second town on Espiritu Santo

Luganville is the main town of Espiritu Santo and Vanuatu's second-largest urban center, served by Santo-Pekoa International Airport and a port on the Segond Channel. Nearby waters hold the wreck of the SS President Coolidge, a popular dive site.

During WWII the island hosted a very large US military base, and Luganville expanded around that infrastructure. James Michener's wartime service in the area inspired parts of his book Tales of the South Pacific.

Frequently asked — Luganville

When is the best time to visit Luganville?

Best May–Oct · Cyclone risk Nov–Apr — this reflects Vanuatu's seasonal weather and crowds.

Do I need a visa to visit Vanuatu?

Visa-free (most passports, 30 days). Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often — always confirm with the official Vanuatu government or embassy before you travel.

What currency is used in Luganville?

Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). You can convert USD to the live local rate right on this page.

What language do people speak in Luganville?

English is the primary language in Vanuatu.

What is the emergency number in Vanuatu?

Dial 112 for emergencies in Vanuatu.

Can you drink the tap water in Luganville?

Tap water here is generally rated "Boil first". When unsure, choose sealed bottled or filtered water.

What power plug type does Vanuatu use?

Type I. Bring a compatible adapter — you can build a full packing list for Luganville on this page.

Is Luganville safe for travellers?

Safety varies by neighbourhood and changes over time, so there's no one-word answer. The local emergency number is 112. Check SkyOSK's safety notes for Luganville and your government's current travel advisory before you go.