Vanuatu Celebrated as a Must-Visit Destination in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025

The Vanuatu Tourism Office is thrilled to announce that Vanuatu has been recognised in Lonely Planet’s prestigious Best in Travel 2025, ranking as #8 in the Top 10 Countries to visit next year.

This exciting accolade highlights Vanuatu’s remarkable blend of natural beauty, deep cultural heritage, and unspoiled island experiences, positioning it as a must-see destination for adventurous and curious travellers in 2025.

Each inclusion in Lonely Planet’s list is based on criteria including topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity—factors that make Vanuatu a standout choice among an impressive array of destinations.

Vanuatu Tourism Office’s CEO, Adela Issachar Aru, expressed her pride in Vanuatu’s recognition by Lonely Planet as one of the top countries to visit in 2025:
“This prestigious acknowledgement from such a trusted travel authority elevates Vanuatu on the world stage, introducing our beautiful country to a new audience,” said Ms Issachar Aru.
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised for our commitment to sustainability, our diverse 83 islands, rich traditions, and warm, welcoming culture. We invite travellers to immerse themselves in all that Vanuatu offers and discover why it stands out as a must-visit destination among a remarkable array of bucket-list locations.”

Vanuatu’s inclusion in Lonely Planet’s list underscores its dedication to sustainable tourism and the preservation of its rare cultural and environmental treasures. Each of Vanuatu’s islands offers something unique for visitors:

• Efate: The main island, home to Port Vila, offers easy access to barefoot luxury resorts, adventure activities, and cultural experiences.
• Espiritu Santo: A haven for divers, featuring stunning blue holes and world-class diving sites like the SS President Coolidge wreck and Champagne Beach.
• Tanna: Known for the awe-inspiring Mount Yasur, the world’s most accessible active volcano, and immersive cultural experiences with local tribes.
• Pentecost: Famous for its land diving rituals, the precursor to modern-day bungee jumping, and its deep connection to ancient customs.

With Vanuatu’s proximity to New Zealand, reaching this tropical paradise is easier than ever. Direct flights to Port Vila are available through Solomon Airlines from Auckland three times a week and weekly to Santo. Fiji Airways also offers flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to Port Vila via Nadi.

Whether travellers are looking for a quick getaway or an extended island-hopping adventure, Vanuatu is just over three hours away by plane, making it an ideal destination for Kiwis seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. From honeymooners in search of secluded luxury to families and thrill-seekers, the islands of Vanuatu offer endless possibilities.

For more information about planning your trip to Vanuatu and to discover the wonders of the 83 islands, visit www.vanuatu.travel/nz.