Is it safe to withdraw cash in Vanuatu or not?
ATMs here are mostly reliable, but late-night access can be spotty in smaller towns. I tried using one at a petrol station after 10 PM - it was locked inside. Better to withdraw during the day or early evening when shops and banks are still open.
Used a Westpac ATM near the market in Port Vila - well-lit and close to open cafes. No issues with my card, but the machine only dispensed large notes. Helpful to carry small bills for kava bars and street vendors, who don’t give change easily.
I stayed in Luganville and only withdrew cash during the day. A few other travelers mentioned that ATMs can sometimes run out of money by evening - and there’s no refill until the next business day. I’d plan withdrawals earlier, especially on weekends.
In Port Vila, I withdrew vatu from a Bred Bank ATM after a late meal around 9:30 PM. The area near the waterfront had some life, but was mostly quiet. Withdrawing money after dark in Vanuatu felt safe enough, but I wouldn’t say it’s common practice. Most locals finish their errands before sundown.