Things to Do in Vanuatu in December

December Weather in Vanuatu

31°C (88°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Lush landscapes at peak greenery - waterfalls like Mele Cascades flow at maximum volume, creating spectacular photography opportunities and refreshing swimming conditions
Cyclone season hasn't peaked yet - December sits in early wet season before January-March cyclone risk, offering dramatic weather without extreme danger
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 20-30% from July-September peak, while flights from Australia/New Zealand cost 15-20% less than winter months
Perfect diving visibility - post-spawn coral conditions and calmer morning seas create 25-30m (82-98 ft) underwater visibility before afternoon weather builds

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon weather - thunderstorms develop rapidly between 2-5pm on 70% of days, requiring flexible outdoor plans and indoor backup options
High humidity makes hiking challenging - 75% humidity combined with 31°C (88°F) temperatures create exhausting conditions on trails like Mount Yasur approaches
Inter-island flights frequently delayed - afternoon storms cause 40-60 minute delays on Air Vanuatu domestic routes, impacting tight itineraries between islands

Best Activities in December

Mount Yasur Volcano Night Tours

December's dramatic cloud formations create incredible volcanic light shows against storm clouds. Rain typically clears by 6pm, making evening approaches ideal. The 361m (1,184 ft) climb is cooler after afternoon storms, and fewer crowds mean better viewing positions at the rim.

Booking Tip: Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators in Lenakel. Tours typically cost 8,000-12,000 VUV (70-105 USD). Choose operators with 4WD vehicles and rain covers. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Port Vila Harbor Cultural Tours

December's frequent afternoon rain creates perfect timing for morning cultural experiences. Local markets are most active 6-10am before heat builds. Traditional lap lap cooking demonstrations work well with weather patterns - food steams while you shelter from afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Half-day morning tours cost 4,000-6,000 VUV (35-50 USD). Book with operators offering covered transport and indoor cultural centers as backup. Reference booking widget below for current cultural tour availability.

Underwater Post Office Snorkeling

Morning seas before 11am offer perfect conditions at Hideaway Island's underwater post office. December's post-spawn coral recovery creates vibrant underwater scenes, while afternoon storms make morning water time precious. The 3m (10 ft) depth is ideal for beginners.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots only - afternoon sessions regularly cancel due to weather. Costs 2,500-3,500 VUV (20-30 USD) including equipment. Operators provide weather guarantees and rebooking options. Check current availability in booking section.

Mele Cascades Waterfall Adventures

December rainfall creates the year's most spectacular waterfall conditions. The 35m (115 ft) falls flow at maximum volume, while multiple swimming pools form perfect natural spas. Morning visits before 11am avoid afternoon storms and offer best photography light through mist.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 500 VUV (4 USD). Hire local guides for 1,500 VUV (13 USD) - essential during wet season for safe river crossings. Transport operators charge 3,000-4,000 VUV (25-35 USD) return from Port Vila.

Espiritu Santo Blue Holes

December's rainfall feeds the famous Nanda Blue Hole and Million Dollar Point with crystal-clear spring water. Cooler morning temperatures make jungle treks comfortable, while afternoon shelter at blue holes during storms creates magical experiences watching rain hit pristine water.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 8,000-12,000 VUV (70-105 USD) including transport and lunch. Book operators with covered vehicles and flexible timing. Morning departures essential to maximize clear weather window.

Traditional Village Stays

December wet season aligns with traditional storytelling period when communities gather indoors during afternoon storms. Experience authentic kastom life with families preparing for New Year celebrations. Elevated bungalows provide comfort during heavy rains while maintaining cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Village stays cost 4,000-7,000 VUV (35-60 USD) per night including meals. Book through Port Vila cultural offices or established eco-lodges with village partnerships. Advance booking essential for December cultural calendar alignment.

December Events & Festivals

December 15-24

Christmas Markets at Port Vila Waterfront

Local artisans sell traditional handicrafts and seasonal foods under covered pavilions. Features kastom dancing performances and traditional string band music adapted for Christmas celebrations. Perfect rainy day activity with authentic cultural shopping.

Late December

New Year Kastom Ceremonies

Traditional communities prepare year-end ceremonies during December, offering visitors glimpse into authentic spiritual practices. Village preparations include special food ceremonies and traditional dress displays - particularly active on Tanna and Malekula islands.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants - 75% humidity means cotton stays wet for hours after morning dew or afternoon storms

Waterproof phone case - sudden 20-minute downpours happen without warning, essential for volcano and waterfall visits

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 even through clouds, and you'll spend mornings in direct tropical sun

Lightweight rain jacket with pit-zips - afternoon storms are warm (26°C/79°F) so breathability prevents overheating

Waterproof hiking boots - trails become muddy streams within minutes during 180mm (7.1 inches) monthly rainfall

Merino wool or synthetic base layers - natural fibers manage 75% humidity better than cotton, dry faster after rain

Waterproof day pack cover - sudden storms can destroy electronics and documents in minutes

Anti-chafing balm - high humidity and sweating during 31°C (88°F) temperatures causes serious friction issues on walks

Mosquito repellent with DEET - standing water after rains creates breeding grounds, evenings particularly challenging

Portable phone charger - power outages during storms are common, backup power essential for navigation and communication

Insider Knowledge

Local buses stop running during heavy afternoon storms - arrange covered transport back to accommodation before 2pm or plan to wait out weather at your destination

Vila Central Hospital stocks better malaria prevention than village dispensaries - collect prescriptions in Port Vila before heading to outer islands during wet season

Domestic flight delays compound throughout the day - always book first morning flights (7-9am) for inter-island travel to avoid afternoon storm cascade delays

Market vendors offer 30-50% discounts after 4pm when afternoon storms clear - perfect time for souvenir shopping with locals eager to sell remaining stock

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon outdoor activities - 70% chance of storms between 2-5pm makes afternoon volcano tours, waterfall hikes, and snorkeling highly unreliable

Packing only light cotton clothing - cotton becomes uncomfortable and takes hours to dry in 75% humidity, synthetic materials essential for comfort

Not carrying cash for weather delays - storm-related flight delays require overnight accommodation and meals, many places don't accept cards outside Port Vila