Vanuatu Included on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel List 2025

 

One of Australia’s most unique and adventurous neighbours, Vanuatu, has been touted by Lonely Planet as a must-visit destination in 2025 – and with only 45,000 annual visitors, you can leave the crowds at home.

With over 50 years of travel publishing experience under its belt, any recommendation from Lonely Planet carries a lot of weight. Making the publication’s ‘Best in Travel’ list is an accolade of the highest order.

Coming in at number eight of the top ten countries to visit in 2025, Vanuatu was selected by Lonely Planet for its rich heritage and diverse cultures. 

Read more: 19 Thrilling Adventures on Vanuatu’s Outer Islands

A Ladies Water Dance Welcome on Gaua

‘This prestigious acknowledgement from such a trusted travel authority elevates Vanuatu on the world stage, introducing our beautiful country to a new audience’, said Adela Issachar Aru, CEO of Vanuatu Tourism Office. 

Each destination on the list is selected based on a set of criteria, including unique experiences, topicality, ‘Wow’ factor, and an ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity. 

‘We’re incredibly proud to be recognised for our commitment to sustainability, our diverse 83 islands, rich traditions, and warm, welcoming culture’, Ms Issachar Aru said.

Read more: I Explored the Islands of Vanuatu – Here’s Why It Should Be on Your 2025 Bucket List

Mele Cascades on Efate Island

Lonely Planet’s Vanuatu highlights include:

• Standing on the rim of Tanna Island’s Yasur volcano
• Sampling kava, Vanuatu’s signature drop, at a local island bar
• Scuba diving wrecks and coral reefs 
• Swimming in Efate Island’s Blue Lagoon and Mele Cascades

Read more: Exploring Efate’s Jungle Waterfalls

‘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’, said Ms Issachar Aru. 

Although not the simplest country to travel in, Explorers to Vanuatu are reminded that the country is an adventure destination and travellers should be prepared to go with the flow – it’s always worth it!

Direct flights from Australia to Port Vila depart multiple times a week from Brisbane and Sydney, while direct flights to Espiritu Santo depart weekly from Brisbane. Once in Vanuatu, domestic flights can be taken to Espiritu Santo, Tanna, and outer islands via  Air Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu flights can be booked via email.

Images supplied by Vanuatu Tourism Office