Vanuatu’s volcanic islands, turquoise waters, and cultural experiences make it a standout Pacific destination – but handling money in Vanuatu and knowing how currency works is key to a relaxed and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re island-hopping, shopping in local markets, or paying for tours, understanding how to pay will make things easier. This guide outlines what currency to bring, how to get money and currency in Vanuatu (Vanuatu Vatu – VUV), cash and card usage tips, and the key dos and don’ts. With these insights, you can enjoy Vanuatu’s natural beauty without financial headaches.
How to pay in Vanuatu – cash or card?
In Vanuatu, a mix of cash and card is accepted as form of payment. Cards (mainly Visa and Mastercard) work well in Port Vila and Luganville for hotels, shops, and restaurants. Once you leave main towns, cash becomes the most accepted form of payment. The Vanuatu vatu (VUV) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Buses, taxis, and water taxis are cash-only.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Local food stalls and handicraft markets operate on cash.
- Small Businesses: Family-run shops and cafés often require cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Many budget accommodations prefer cash payment.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for guides, drivers, and hospitality workers.
- Outer Islands: Electronic payment options are very limited outside main towns.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Most mid- and high-end hotels in Port Vila and Luganville accept cards.
- Restaurants: Some larger restaurants and cafés in tourist areas take cards.
- Retail Stores: A few bigger supermarkets and shops accept cards, but confirm first.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Established operators in main towns accept cards.
- Online Bookings: Flights, hotels, and certain activities can be booked online by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Vanuatu?
The Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) is the official and only accepted currency in Vanuatu. It is the best currency to use for all transactions, including transport, shopping, and local markets.
USD, GBP, Euro or other foreign currencies are not usually accepted.
Where to get currency in Vanuatu?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Vanuatu. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Vanuatu
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Vanuatu
If you’re withdrawing money in Vanuatu from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus and Maestro cards. Majority of the other card types such as Plus, CUP, JCB, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Vanuatu?
It’s a good idea to bring some Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) or major foreign currency like AUD or NZD before arriving. VUV is hard to find outside the country, and exchange rates abroad may not be ideal.
ATMs are available in Port Vila and Luganville, and most accept Visa and Mastercard, but can be limited or occasionally offline. Plan to withdraw upon arrival and carry backup cash, especially when heading to outer islands.
Currency exchange is available at banks or exchange bureaus in town. Avoid airport counters unless necessary, as their rates are usually less favorable.
Where to withdraw money in Vanuatu
You can withdraw money in Vanuatu at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Vanuatu are those owned by popular banks such as:
- BRED Bank,
- National Bank, and
- ANZ.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Vanuatu.
Where to exchange currency in Vanuatu
You can exchange currency in Vanuatu at licensed currency exchange offices and banks branches.
Currency exchange services are available in major islands like Efate (Port Vila) and Espiritu Santo (Luganville). Located primarily in Port Vila, including providers like Goodies Foreign Exchange, which often offer better rates than banks. Some exchanges also operate in resort areas and souvenir markets.
Banks: Banks like ANZ, Bred Bank, and National Bank of Vanuatu offer currency exchange during weekdays. Expect limited hours – often 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Pro Tip: Bring AUD, NZD, or USD – they are the most commonly exchanged. Airport and hotel exchanges offer lower rates, so exchange most of your money in town if possible.
You can find good currency exchanges in Vanuatu using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Vanuatu. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Is carrying cash in Vanuatu safe?
Carrying cash in Vanuatu is necessary and generally safe, especially because many smaller businesses and remote areas do not accept cards. The crime rate is low, but theft can happen, particularly in markets or ferry terminals.
To carry cash safely in Vanuatu:
- Bring enough Vatu (VUV) for your day’s needs and keep the rest locked away.
- Use a money belt or zipped bag to keep your money secure.
- Be discreet when handling money, particularly in busy markets or local buses.
- Use ATMs in Port Vila or Luganville for safe access to cash.
- Keep small bills for island transport, meals, and tips – change can be hard to find.
- Card acceptance is growing in larger hotels and tour companies, but not guaranteed.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Vanuatu
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
