11k (6,5k +4k) in Port Vila, Vanuatu. 27th and 28th of August 2025.
We landed in Port Vila ready for adventure and a short training run before the Sydney marathon. The city is a mix of turquoise waters, lush greenery, and vibrant markets.
We set out to explore both the streets and the surrounding islands, combining running with cultural discoveries and hidden gems.
Vanuatu is an archipelago of about 83 islands, only 65 inhabited, each with dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique culture. 🌋
Port Vila is a vibrant city with colorful markets, stunning waterfront parks, and tropical scenery perfect for running. 🌺 We laced up our shoes and set out to explore the city on foot, discovering hidden corners, banyan-lined streets, and local life along the way.
Our first run took us through the heart of Port Vila, along the waterfront and past bustling local life. The second adventure was wilder: a trail from Mele Waterfalls through lush jungle paths, ending with an epic sprint along a deserted beach. 🌊
Two very different runs, but both showed us why running in Vanuatu is unforgettable. 🏃♀️
Whether you’re training for a marathon or just want a scenic jog, running in Port Vila is an unforgettable experience. 🏃♂️
TLDR; “too long, didn’t read”
- I just want to run! Take me to RUN.
- I have 1 minute. Take me to USEFUL INFORMATION.
- Running is my excuse for travelling. Take me to TRIP.
- Running is my excuse for eating. Take me to CARBOLOADING.
- I want to know what to read in the plane. Take me to ONE BOOK.
- It’s a long haul flight! Take me to TO KNOW MORE.
Running in Vanuatu also means tropical conditions. Expect heat and humidity, but also the reward of post-run dips in crystal-clear waters or a fresh coconut straight from the tree. 🥥💦
🌴 Why Vanuatu Should Be on Every Runner’s Bucket List
Vanuatu isn’t just for beach bums and scuba divers (though it’s amazing for that too). It’s one of the most unique running destinations in the world.
If you’re dreaming of a place where your morning run includes ocean breezes, lush jungle backdrops, and smiling locals shouting “Halo!” as you pass by… Port Vila, Vanuatu is your paradise.
This hidden gem in the South Pacific is more than just a postcard-perfect island escape. It’s a runner’s dream wrapped in volcanic beauty, coastal trails, and cultural charm. 🌋🌴
Searching for the ultimate tropical running destination? Look no further!
Whether you’re a marathon trainer, casual jogger, or trail adventurer, Port Vila offers a warm welcome, stunning scenery, and unforgettable running experiences. Bookmark this Guide to Running in Vanuatu and start planning your island miles today. 🌞👟🇻🇺
🌍 The Trip 📷: What to see before or after running in Port Vila
🌍 Introduction: A place with deep history and Island soul
Port Vila, the vibrant capital of Vanuatu, sits on the island of Efate, once a key Allied base during World War II.
The island played a strategic role in the Pacific campaign, and you can still spot remnants of this history, from sunken military equipment in its clear lagoons to airstrips that now serve as local roads and running paths.
The island’s story blends wartime history, ancient Melanesian traditions, and French and British colonial influences, making it a cultural and historical feast for curious travelers.
I had done my homework, watching travel videos and reading about Vanuatu’s quirks. It’s an archipelago of around 83 islands, with only 65 inhabited.
Mount Yasur on Tanna Island blew my mind. It’s one of the most active volcanoes in the world and safely explorable. 🌋
I loved learning about the culture. Over 100 indigenous languages, the land diving ritual, kastom laws, and kava traditions make it fascinating.
The Prince Philip Cult and Local Legends 👑
Two things really caught my attention. Cannibalistic legends from the past still float in folklore.
Then there’s the Prince Philip Cult on Tanna Island. Some locals believe he is a divine figure who will one day return. 😲
It was incredible to imagine such stories still living in today’s world while visiting these islands.
Arrival in Port Vila: First Impressions ✈️
The flight was dramatic. We nearly aborted landing once but finally touched down over turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Port Vila airport is small but tourist-friendly. Hotels like the Ramada are easy to reach, and currency exchange is simple. 💵
The city still shows scars from the December 2024 earthquake. Cracked buildings and empty lots are reminders of resilience and recovery.
Exploring the City and Local Life 🏙️
The streets are busy but lively. Chinese shops and local markets mix with small resorts and government buildings.
We stopped at a supermarket to stock up on essentials. The presence of NZ soldiers was a little surreal. 🛒
Even amidst rebuilding, the city buzzes with locals, vendors, and curious travelers discovering Port Vila’s charm.
Crystal Blue Lagoon Adventure 💦
We headed out early to the Blue Lagoon. The water was a brilliant blue, fresh, and inviting with jumping platforms and ropes.
Roger dove repeatedly while locals and visiting families enjoyed the swings and jumps. The lagoon felt almost private in the early morning. 🌊
A resident diver performed spectacular dives, adding to the magical atmosphere of this hidden gem.
AVI Turtle Sanctuary 🐢
Swimming with turtles was unforgettable. We fed them raw tuna and watched baby turtles swim nearby.
Neon-green iguanas were perched on our arms for photos, climbing and scratching playfully. 🦎
The sanctuary was hands-on but safe, offering a unique chance to interact with Vanuatu’s marine and reptile life.
Rarru Cascades: Hidden Waterfalls 🌿
Rarru Cascades felt like a secret rainforest paradise. We bathed in fresh waterfalls and swam inside little cascades.
The rope swings added adventure, and few tourists meant we had the place almost to ourselves. 💦
It was one of those moments where nature felt truly immersive and playful.
Mama’s Market and Local Handicrafts 🎨
Back in Port Vila, we explored Mama’s Market. The local women artisans sold baskets, shells, and flowers for hair.
I grabbed a fridge magnet and a decorative flower. The market is colorful, lively, and perfect for authentic souvenirs. 🌺
Even in casual walks around the city, encounters with locals and culture left lasting impressions.
Planning Adventures for Next Time 🌴
Junior, our guide, gave us insider tips. Hideaway Island for snorkeling and Tanna Volcano are on the next visit list.
Soccer dominates the local sports scene, traffic is lively, and the surroundings are a lush tropical paradise. ⚽
Vanuatu’s mix of adventure, culture, and untouched beauty made this trip unforgettable
🏃♀️ The Run 🏃♂️
👟 First: where to Run in Port Vila
Wondering where to run in Port Vila? Here are a couple of options we ran and enjoyed.
- Seafront Promenade: A flat, paved stretch along the harbor, perfect for sunrise or sunset runs 🌅. Safe, scenic, and popular with locals and tourists alike. This is the first one we decided to run.
- Mele Cascades Road: For trail lovers, this road leads to the famous waterfalls and is a lush, shaded route with soft terrain—ideal for a long run. This was our second run!
Our 6.5K Route 🏃♂️
We only had five days before the Sydney marathon, so we decided on a short run. The goal was simple: keep it light. We ended up covering 6.5 kilometers. 🌞
Our plan was to explore Port Vila first, then maybe venture north to Mélé Beach the following day. I wanted to soak in the city before heading further out. 🏝️
The weather was warm and sunny, around 27 degrees Celsius, with a steady breeze of 9 km/h. The winds were stronger along the coast but kept the run refreshing. 🌬️
Exploring Port Vila Markets While on a Run 🍍
We began at the Ramada Beach Resort perched dramatically on cliffs above Erakor Lagoon. From our hotel, the lagoon shimmered below, framed by tropical greenery. 🌊
The first 2 kilometers to the city center were tricky. Traffic was heavy, sidewalks narrow, and car fumes were intense. Running here required caution. 🚗
Along the way, we passed the Vanuatu Parliament. Its sweeping Pacific-style roofline is stunning. The building symbolizes independence and the pride of the nation. 🏛️
Nearby, the lagoon forms a small peninsula. Erakor Island lies just off the coast, but we stuck to the city center instead of venturing to the island. 🏞️
Getting better…
A few hundred meters down Eliuk Road, the run became more enjoyable. Some poles on narrow sidewalks made dodging necessary, but the views were worth it. 🛥️
We glimpsed yachts on turquoise waters and low-rise buildings terraced into cliffs. Downtown featured administrative offices, cultural landmarks, and waterfront promenades. 🏢
New construction stood next to earthquake-rebuilt buildings. The 7.2 earthquake that hit Vanuatu showed its mark, but the city’s resilience was inspiring. 💪
Passing locals, some wearing t-shirts with the Vanuatu flag, added energy to the run. The city felt alive, blending history and modern life seamlessly. 🇻🇺
Markets!
We reached the Central Market at 4 PM. It was quiet but still alive with locals buying fresh fruits, yams, taro, cassava, spices, and seafood. 🍉
The Central Market is the heartbeat of Port Vila. It’s a place to witness authentic daily life and vibrant ni-Vanuatu culture. 🌶️
Next, we ran past Mama’s Market. The stalls overflowed with handwoven baskets, pandanus mats, wood carvings, shell jewelry, and tie-dye sarongs. 🧺
The women artisans were friendly and proud. Their work sustains local communities and preserves traditional craft. For visitors, it’s a must-visit for authentic souvenirs. 🎨
Waterfront Parks and Scenic Running in Vanuatu 🌴
We finally reached the waterfront parks. Leafy trees, grassy lawns, and shady benches created a perfect running atmosphere. 🌿
Banyan trees towered over us. Their aerial roots twisted and fused, forming giant trunks. Running beneath them felt like entering a tropical cathedral. 🌳
The waterfront links markets, cafes, and government buildings, all against the stunning backdrop of Mélé Bay. The sun sparkled on the water, and big ships moved lazily across the harbor. ⛴️
The parks serve as gathering places, perfect for cultural events, festivals, or simply relaxing like the locals we passed enjoying the shade. 🪑
Banyan Trees and Local Culture on the Trail ⚠️
Along the route, we noticed a tsunami warning sign labeled DENGAR – DANGER – DANGER in Bislama, English, and French. It was both alarming and fascinating. ⚡
Bislama started as a pidgin English among laborers and evolved into a full creole. Seeing it on the signs reminded me of Vanuatu’s layered history. 📚
We passed locals under the banyan trees waving a small bicycle with a New Zealand and a Spanish flag!
Shouting “España” earned smiles and cheers, a random but delightful encounter. 🇪🇸
Finishing Your Port Vila Run with a Sweet Treat 🍦
The uphill run back was tougher, especially with traffic, but the city views kept us motivated. ⛰️
We ended at a local supermarket and treated ourselves to unusual ice creams. One featured Messi’s picture, and another was taro-flavored. ⚽ How weird was that?!
Anyway and strange ice creams aside, our run was the perfect reward after 6.5 kilometers of sunny, scenic, and culturally rich running in Port Vila. 😋
Second run: Scenic Trail from Mele Waterfalls to the Ocean 🌴🏃♂️🌊
We reached Mele Waterfalls in under an hour.
The air was hot and heavy. Junior said there was a 20 minute walk to the falls. Roger looked at me and said we should run it. At first I hesitated. We had a marathon in three days and I feared slipping or tiring my legs.
But he was right. We turned it into an amazing scenic run. ✨
Through the rainforest
From the entrance, after paying the 1500 vatu fee, it was one kilometer to the falls. Not easy to run but worth every step.
We started with three steep stairways surrounded by lush green walls. Dogs slept lazily and locals debated prices. We were the only tourists. 🐕
Soon the path widened and flattened. Perfect for running under the thick jungle canopy. A few villagers passed us carrying mysterious loads. Then we faced a creek crossing.
Shoes off, we held on to a rope to avoid slipping. The cool water revived us. 💦
When the waterfalls appeared, we had to take our shoes off again.
The stone path was covered in streaming water. Socks on for grip, we climbed carefully. The trick worked. No falls, just the thrill of running inside a jungle river. 🌿
The waterfalls
The last meters were too slippery, so we walked. Still, every step felt magical. The water ran down smooth rocks, like green carpets under our feet. The spray hit our faces. Birds flew across a bright blue sky.
And we were completely alone. 🌺
We swam in the crystal pool. Roger went straight under the fall and let it crash over him like a giant shower. After photos and laughter we made our way back.
Carefully down, then running downhill until the exit. Two kilometers so far, but we wanted more. 📸
Toward the ocean
We kept going. A quiet road led us another kilometer and a half. Houses lined the way, chickens and dogs roaming freely. The homes were simple but well kept. A cemetery appeared on our right, its white and colorful crosses striking against the green.
At last, the sea. A small park greeted us, with locals watching us curiously. Then came the best reward. 🌊
Mele Beach and Devil’s Point Road
The beach stretched wide and deserted.
Grey sand, rocky in parts, tilted slightly under our feet. Running was tricky but the solitude and ocean views were priceless.
A creek forced us to take our shoes off again. We laughed and crossed barefoot. 👣
The last stretch was perfect. Soft but firm sand let us speed up.
A group of locals played water polo in the shallows. They had caps, referees, even goals. A yellow ball rolled near us and Roger tossed it back. Smiles all around. ⚽
We finished after 4.2 kilometers, but the beach kept going endlessly. I felt pure joy. Running in Port Vila had given us waterfalls, jungle, village life and the ocean. A perfect slice of Vanuatu. 🌏
🍜 What to eat before and after running in Vanuatu 🍝
Tasty fuel for tropical miles!
Whether you’re chasing sunrise kilometers or just earning that beachside smoothie, knowing what to eat in Vanuatu as a runner is key. The local cuisine is hearty, natural, and often cooked in underground earth ovens (yep, like a volcanic slow-cooker 🍽️🔥). Here’s your guide to pre-run carboloading and post-run protein recovery, island-style—with a side of humor and a sprinkle of cassava.
🍌 Carboloading (Before the Run)
Fuel up like a ni-Vanuatu warrior!
- Laplap – The national dish! A dense, baked paste made from grated yam, taro, or banana, wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked with coconut cream. It’s the Vanuatu version of a carb bomb—think tropical lasagna meets energy bar.
- Tropical Fruit Plate – Papaya, bananas, mangoes, and pineapple straight from the tree. Nature’s gels—except they taste way better and don’t come in foil packets. 🍍🍌
- Cassava Cake – Sweet, sticky, and high in energy. Just don’t eat too much or you’ll be jogging in slow motion.
🍗 Protein Recovery (After the Run)
Time to rebuild those island-strong legs!
- Kava Chicken – Not the drink (save that for post-run chill!), but local chicken grilled with roots and herbs. Light, flavorful, and packed with protein. 🐔
- Fresh Fish Curry – Caught the same morning and cooked with coconut milk and island spices. High in omega-3s, low in regrets. 🐟🔥
- Tusker Beer & Grilled Taro Chips – OK, not exactly recovery, but you earned it. 🍺 Bonus: it’s the best way to carbo-reload for tomorrow.
Running in Vanuatu means sweating in paradise—but with food this good, your recovery might just be the highlight of your day. Just don’t laplap too hard before a hill sprint. 😉
Useful information
🏃 Running in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
👟 Urban: bring shoes for asphalt.
✅ Scenic Waterfront Views – The lagoon, Mélé Bay, and yachts provide beautiful, motivating scenery. 🌊
✅ Shady Parks and Banyan Trees – The waterfront parks with sprawling banyans offer shaded, peaceful stretches. 🌴
⚠️ Heavy Traffic Near Parliament – Some roads are narrow, busy, and without sidewalks, so watch for cars. 🚗
⚠️ Obstacles on Sidewalks – Poles, uneven pavements, and other hazards require caution while running.
Map
One book
📘 “Sado”, by Mikaela Nyman
Sado, a Bislama word meaning shadow, reflection, or dishonor—unfolds in the direct aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Pam, which devastated Vanuatu in 2015.
Reading Sado before your trip is like carrying a piece of Vanuatu’s soul in your backpack.
It sets the emotional tone of the islands—lifting the veil behind paradise, showing post-cyclone reality, the complex interplay of cultures, and the tenacity of local communities. Navigating Port Vila’s damaged roads or meeting local radio journalists becomes richer when you’ve absorbed the novel’s intimate insights.
It primes you to see beyond the palm trees, feel the undercurrents, and appreciate the island spirit that persists through storms.
Plot: The novel weaves together the lives of Cathryn, an NGO worker from New Zealand grappling with loss and displacement, and Faia, a ni-Vanuatu journalist fighting to amplify women’s voices in her homeland . Through dual perspectives, Sado captures the fracture zones between cultures, the raw struggle to rebuild both infrastructure and identity, and the fragile resilience of relationships tested by disaster and hope.
To know more…
🎥 & 📚 Other books & movies about Vanuatu worth exploring:
A list of mine could not fail to include a “Murder Mistery”, of course 😉
- “Murder in the Pacific“, by Ifira Point by Matt Francis 📔 Crime novel Set entirely in Port Vila, this detective story brings the city’s streets and local culture to life. Great for reading before and continuing during your stay .
- “Beyond Pandemonium“, by Walter Lini 📔: Autobiography Memoir of Vanuatu’s first Prime Minister: insightful reflections on decolonisation, identity, and nation-building—a great backdrop to Vanuatu’s political and cultural heartbeat .
- “Getting Stoned with Savages“, by J. Maarten Troost 📔: Travelogue A humorous, candid journey through Vanuatu and Fiji—this entertaining account helps lighten your expectations and embrace the spontaneous charm of island life .
- “Tanna” (2015 film) 🎬: Movie Filmed entirely in Vanuatu on Tanna Island with local villagers as actors. A true immersion into kastom (traditional) life and cultural beliefs—cinematic preparation for visiting remote areas .
