Things to Do in Vanuatu in January

January Weather in Vanuatu

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

180mm (7.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak mango season - local markets overflow with 15+ varieties including the prized island mangoes that ripen only January-February
Ideal water conditions for diving and snorkeling - 28°C (82°F) water temperature with 30m (98 ft) visibility at most sites
Traditional kastom ceremonies peak during this harvest season - genuine cultural experiences unavailable other months
Fewer tourists than dry season (May-October) means lower accommodation prices and authentic local interactions

Considerations

Daily afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days - typically 2-4pm lasting 30-45 minutes with intense downpours
High humidity makes 30°C (86°F) feel like 35°C (95°F) - outdoor activities are taxing midday
Some remote outer island flights cancelled due to weather - backup days needed for ambitious itineraries

Best Activities in January

Underwater Post Office Snorkeling at Hideaway Island

January's calm morning waters (before 11am) offer perfect conditions for snorkeling to the world's only underwater post office. Water temperature hits ideal 28°C (82°F) with minimal current. Afternoon storms make morning sessions essential - locals avoid afternoon water activities during wet season.

Booking Tip: Book day trips 5-7 days ahead through licensed marine operators. Typical cost 4,500-6,500 VUV ($40-60 USD) including equipment. Morning departures (8-9am) avoid afternoon weather. Look for operators with covered boats and weather contingency policies.

Mount Yasur Volcano Night Tours

January's cloud cover creates dramatic lighting effects for volcano viewing - the steam and ash glow orange against storm clouds. Cooler evening temperatures (24°C/75°F) make the 2-hour trek to Yasur's rim more comfortable than dry season heat. Rain typically clears by sunset (6:30pm).

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead as tours run weather-dependent schedules. Tours cost 8,000-12,000 VUV ($70-110 USD) including Tanna transport. Choose operators with 4WD vehicles and rain contingencies. Volcanic activity levels checked daily - tours may shift locations.

Traditional Market Food Tours in Port Vila

January brings peak season produce including breadfruit, taro, and unique wet season vegetables. Local women's market cooperatives are most active 6-10am before heat peaks. This is mango season - market vendors offer tastings of varieties unavailable in dry months. Covered market areas provide rain shelter.

Booking Tip: Early morning food walks cost 2,500-4,000 VUV ($22-35 USD) through cultural tour operators. Book 3-5 days ahead. Best tours include traditional cooking demonstrations. Look for guides from local communities who explain seasonal eating patterns.

Blue Hole Swimming and Cliff Jumping

January rainfall keeps the Blue Hole at peak water levels - essential for safe cliff jumping from the 10m (33 ft) platform. The 22°C (72°F) spring-fed water provides relief from humid air. Morning visits (8-11am) avoid afternoon storms and offer best light for underwater visibility to 15m (49 ft) depth.

Booking Tip: Day tours typically cost 5,500-7,500 VUV ($50-70 USD) including transport and guide. Book with operators who check water levels daily - January levels can vary significantly. Choose tours with first aid certified guides for cliff jumping activities.

Land Diving Ceremony Viewing on Pentecost Island

January marks the start of land diving season preparation - witness tower construction and traditional ceremonies. While actual diving happens April-June, January offers unique access to ritual preparations and training jumps from lower platforms. Experience authentic kastom culture without tourist crowds of diving season.

Booking Tip: Cultural ceremony visits cost 6,000-9,000 VUV ($55-80 USD) including island transport and village fees. Book 2 weeks ahead through community tourism operators. Stay includes traditional meals and overnight village accommodation. Weather may delay flights - build in flexible dates.

January Events & Festivals

Throughout January

Yam Harvest Festivals

Traditional village celebrations marking the yam harvest - includes kastom dancing, traditional feasts, and ceremonial exchanges. Each village holds their festival on different dates based on crop readiness. Genuine cultural immersion with families sharing traditional foods and stories.

January 1

Unity Day

National holiday on January 1st celebrating Vanuatu's cultural diversity. Port Vila hosts traditional dance performances from all island groups, local food stalls, and family-friendly cultural activities. Hotels and restaurants offer special traditional menus.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain poncho or packable rain jacket - afternoon storms dump 20-30mm (0.8-1.2 inches) in 30 minutes

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, reapply after swimming

Moisture-wicking cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which traps heat in 70% humidity

Waterproof phone case and dry bags - protect electronics during sudden downpours and water activities

Closed-toe water shoes with good grip - volcanic rocks and coral are sharp, wet surfaces slippery

Anti-chafe balm - humid conditions cause rubbing during walks and water activities

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitoes peak after rainfall, especially dawn and dusk

Lightweight long pants and long sleeves - for evening mosquito protection and cultural site visits

Small towel that dries quickly - you'll get wet multiple times daily from rain and activities

Electrolyte tablets or powder - sweating and heat require constant hydration replacement

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations with air conditioning or strong fans - locals use AC during January humidity, budget places without cooling are uncomfortable for sleeping

Carry small denominations of Vanuatu Vatu (VUV) - many village tourism experiences don't accept cards and ATMs are limited outside Port Vila

Plan outdoor activities for 7-11am daily - locals adjust their work schedules around afternoon storms and peak heat

Learn basic Bislama phrases like 'tangkyu tumas' (thank you very much) - effort is deeply appreciated and opens genuine cultural conversations

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling tight island-hopping itineraries - domestic flights cancel 20-30% more often in January due to weather, always have backup days

Bringing only lightweight clothing - evenings can feel cool at 24°C (75°F) after hot humid days, pack a light layer

Expecting constant sunshine - January is wet season with daily afternoon storms, embrace the dramatic weather as part of the experience