Car Rental in Vanuatu - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Vanuatu is recommended for tourists wanting to explore beyond Port Vila, particularly on the main island of Efate where roads connect key attractions like blue holes, beaches, and traditional villages. Car rental offers excellent flexibility for countryside exploration and discovering remote locations at your own pace. Vanuatu drives on the **right-hand side** of the road, which is convenient for visitors from the Americas and continental Europe. However, skip the rental in central Port Vila where walking and taxis are more practical for short distances. Road conditions vary significantly – main routes around Efate are generally sealed and well-maintained, but rural roads can be rough, unpaved, and challenging during wet weather. Four-wheel drive vehicles are advisable for venturing off main routes. Be prepared for limited road signage, free-roaming livestock, and local driving styles that may differ from your home country. On outer islands like Tanna or Espiritu Santo, assess road conditions carefully as infrastructure is more basic. International driving permits are typically required alongside your home license – verify current requirements when booking.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Vanuatu's specific IDP requirements. Check with local authorities or your rental agency before travel.

Minimum Age

Minimum age requirements vary by rental agency in Vanuatu. Typically ranges from 21-25 years - verify with your chosen provider.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. Specific acceptance rules for Vanuatu should be confirmed with rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included with rentals, but comprehensive coverage is recommended. Check policy details with your rental provider.

Credit Card for Deposit

Most rental agencies require a credit card for security deposits. Debit cards may not be accepted - verify payment requirements in advance.

Local Driving Permit

Information not available on whether Vanuatu requires a local temporary permit in addition to international documents. Confirm current requirements with rental agencies.

Rent from established agencies at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila for convenience, though verify insurance coverage carefully as road conditions in Vanuatu can be challenging with unpaved roads common outside main towns.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage and ensure you have a spare tire and jack - road assistance may be limited outside Port Vila and Luganville.

GPS coverage can be unreliable outside main centers - download offline maps beforehand and ask your rental agency for a physical map, as road signage may be minimal in rural areas.

Fuel stations are primarily located in Port Vila and Luganville - plan refueling carefully for longer trips as stations can be sparse on outer islands, and note that some rental agencies require you to return the car with a full tank.

Allow extra time for vehicle return inspection and confirm the drop-off location and hours in advance, especially if returning outside business hours at the airport - check current procedures with your rental agency.

Roads outside Port Vila and Luganville are often unpaved, poorly maintained, and lack proper signage or lighting - drive slowly and avoid rural routes after dark when hazards like potholes, livestock, and pedestrians are difficult to see.

During the wet season (November to April), heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding, landslides, and severely deteriorated road conditions - check weather forecasts and local advisories before traveling between towns.

Local driving customs include frequent stops for pedestrians and informal roadside markets, plus many drivers use the road center on narrow routes - stay alert and be prepared to yield even when you have right of way.

Speed limits and traffic enforcement are minimal outside main towns, but police checkpoints do occur - ensure you have your international driving permit, local license, and vehicle documentation readily available.