
And the answer is, well, yes, they’re certainly not on the land…BUT unlike Australia there has only been one recorded fatal shark attack in Vanuatu over the last 15 years and it was on the island of Malekula. So, our number one travel tip is to avoid swimming in Malekula – or at least make sure to ask the locals first if it is safe to swim!
Are there any dangerous animals in Vanuatu?
You can rest easy knowing that, unlike Australia, there are very few dangerous or deadly animals in Vanuatu.
Is Vanuatu in danger of a tsunami?
There's a massive fault line that lies underneath many of the islands in the Pacific – which means earthquakes, tsunamis and volcano activity are a threat to sunny Vanuatu.
Are there snakes in Vanuatu?
The snakes in Vanuatu are not poisonous and there are two types – small burrowing snakes and larger boas (pythons). Most ni-Vanuatu people are scared of snakes. On Santo, Erromango and Ambae custom says that the souls of ancestors live in snakes. On Tanna, custom says that evil is embodied in the snake.
Is it safe to swim in Vanuatu?
Even the deadly jellyfish that inhabit the tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef – the Irrukanji and Box jellyfish – are absent in Vanuatu – so you can paddle and swim in relative safety (but keep your eye out for the small blue bottle jellyfish which can still give you a nasty sting – Note: treat with hot water).

Are there great white sharks in Vanuatu?
Scientists who monitored the giant predators for the past six years at Stewart Island, off New Zealand's south coast, found that they regularly set off for destinations such as Tonga, Fiji and Vanuatu in mid-winter.
Does Vanuatu have sharks?
Sharks and sea snakes do exist in the waters around Vanuatu. If you see snakes in lagoons, be careful not to touch them, as they are venomous. As for sharks, while they aren't common you should pay attention to any warnings issued.
Are there any dangerous animals in Vanuatu?
The Most Dangerous Animals in Vanuatu Today The most dangerous animals in Vanuatu are disease-carrying mosquitoes. Other than that, the islands are relatively free of inherently hazardous species. Rabid rats and bats present a threat, but no more so than anywhere else in the world.
Does Vanuatu have crocodiles?
Mr Roy Hills, Director of VPAI, said, "The Estuarine (Saltwater) Crocodile is an endangered species in Vanuatu and through the assistance of Steve Irwin and his team, the people of Maewo no longer need to be fearful of entering the sea and the crocodile has been saved from certain death."
Are there venomous snakes in Vanuatu?
The snakes in Vanuatu are not poisonous and there are two types – small burrowing snakes and larger boas (pythons). Most ni-Vanuatu people are scared of snakes. On Santo, Erromango and Ambae custom says that the souls of ancestors live in snakes.
Does Vanuatu have stingers?
Like the original poster of that scary post said, the ocean is a big place. In any case, the chances of being stung by a random stinger of any kind in Vanuatu waters is massively lower than in Queensland. A young boy was killed by a stinger the week before we had a holiday in FNQ a few years ago now.
Is Vanuatu dangerous?
Vanuatu is the world's most at-risk country for natural hazards, according to a UN University World RiskIndex. And it's not just storms, earthquakes, volcanoes or tsunamis that are the Problem.
Should I be afraid of sea snakes?
Most sea snakes are relatively helpless and unable to strike on land Despite not having to fear these creatures, they should be respected and treated with great respect as when captured, hooked, netted, frightened or harassed they will attempt to bite.
Are there spiders in Vanuatu?
Spiders play a significant role in the lives and beliefs of many cultures in northern Vanuatu.
What country owns Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is a nation of 80 islands, once known as the New Hebrides the country was jointly governed by British and French administrations before gaining independence on 30 July 1980. Population: 275,000 (2016 est.)
What is Vanuatu best known for?
Vanuatu is home to one of the world's most sought after dive sites. With a reputation for superior sites, Vanuatu diving is perhaps most famous for The President Coolidge, a 650ft shipwrecked luxury liner off Espiritu Santo.
Are there bugs in Vanuatu?
Bugs and Wildlife Vanuatu is home to a variety of snakes and spiders, some of which may be poisonous. There are also a fair amount of mosquitos. Even if they're not poisonous, many of the bugs and spiders are very large in size, which can make them startling and frightening to visitors.
Are there spiders in Vanuatu?
Spiders play a significant role in the lives and beliefs of many cultures in northern Vanuatu.
What is the best time of year to go to Vanuatu?
Thanks to its wonderful tropical climate, Vanuatu weather is typically great all year round however conditions are generally at their best from April to October when the weather is fine and temperatures are warm yet comfortable, averaging between 18 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.
Is July a good time to visit Vanuatu?
The months of May, June, September, and October are the best time to visit Vanuatu to enjoy great weather, partake in outdoor activities such as trekking and water sports, and avoid the big crowds. Hotels, too, offer good deals during these months. The best time to visit Vanuatu is from May to September.
What is Vanuatu known for?
Vanuatu is a group of islands in the southwest Pacific Ocean that’s known for its tropical climate and its active volcanoes. Take a look at some warnings that you should be aware of when planning your Vanuatu itinerary.
Is Vanuatu a volcano?
Vanuatu’s active volcanoes are an amazing sight, and they’re also very accessible. Even if you don’t know much about volcanoes, it’s hard not to be entranced by the sight of their activity, especially at night. However, it’s important to be cautious when viewing volcanoes. However attractive the molten lava appears to be against the backdrop of the night sky, it’s still molten lava, and dangerous.
Vanuatu Warnings and Dangers
- Vanuatu is a group of islands in the southwest Pacific Ocean that’s known for its tropical climate and its active volcanoes. Take a look at some warnings that you should be aware of when planning your Vanuatu itinerary.
Volcanoes
- Vanuatu’s active volcanoes are an amazing sight, and they’re also very accessible. Even if you don’t know much about volcanoes, it’s hard not to be entranced by the sight of their activity, especially at night. However, it’s important to be cautious when viewing volcanoes. However attractive the molten lava appears to be against the backdrop of the night sky, it’s still molten lav…
Bugs and Wildlife
- Vanuatu is home to a variety of snakes and spiders, some of which may be poisonous. There are also a fair amount of mosquitos. Even if they’re not poisonous, many of the bugs and spiders are very large in size, which can make them startling and frightening to visitors. In the water, you should be careful to avoid jellyfish and sea urchins. Both can...
Health Concerns
- You must see your doctor for shots and medications before you travel to Vanuatu. Among other things, malaria and hepatitis A are both present in the area. You will need to take anti-malaria medications before, during, and after your trip, and make sure that your vaccinations are up to date. You should also make sure that you pack a first-aid kit to take care of any cuts or bites yo…