Espiritu Santo Tourism Association, Vanuatu

Espiritu Santo Tourism Association, Vanuatu Destination promotion and marketing of Espiritu Santo Island and Sanma islands of the Republic of Vanuatu. It is in the Sanma Province of Vanuatu.

~ About Espiritu Santo ~
(from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Espiritu_Santo)

Espiritu Santo is the largest island in the nation of Vanuatu, with an area of 3,955.5 km2 (1,527.2 sq mi). It belongs to the archipelago of the New Hebrides in the Pacific region of Melanesia. The town of Luganville, on Espiritu Santo's southeast coast, is Vanuatu's second-largest settlement and the provincial capit

al. Roads run north and west from Luganville but most of the island is far from the limited road network. Vanuatu's highest peak is the 1879 metre (6165 foot) Mount Tabwemasana in west-central Espiritu Santo.

~ History ~

The Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós, working for Spain, established a settlement in 1606 at Big Bay on the north side of the island. Espiritu Santo takes its name from Queirós, who named the entire island group "La Austrialia del Espíritu Santo" in acknowledgment of the Spanish king's descent from the royal House of Austria, and believing he had arrived in the Great Southern Continent, Terra Australis. During the time of the British–French Condominium, Hog Harbour, on the northeast coast, was the site of the British district administration, while Segond, near Luganville was the French district administration. During World War II, particularly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the island was used by Allied forces as a military supply and support base, naval harbor, and airfield. In highly fictionalized form, it is the locale of James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific and the subsequent Rogers and Hammerstein musical, South Pacific. The presence of the Allies later contributed to the island's diving tourism, as the United States dumped most of their equipment and refuse at what is now known as 'Million Dollar Point'. Another wreck off Espiritu Santo, the SS President Coolidge, is also a popular diving spot. The SS President Coolidge was a converted luxury liner that hit a mine during the war. Between May and August 1980 the island was the site of a rebellion during the transfer of power over the colonial New Hebrides from the condominium to independent Vanuatu. Jimmy Stevens' Nagriamel movement, in alliance with private French interests and backed by the Phoenix Foundation and American libertarians hoping to establish a tax-free haven, declared the island of Espiritu Santo independent of the new government. A Republic of Vemerana was proclaimed on May 28. France recognized the independence on June 3. On June 5 the tribal chiefs of Santo named the French Ambassador Philippe Allonneau "King of Vemerana", Jimmy Stevens became Prime Minister. Luganville is renamed Allonneaupolis. But negotiations with Port-Vila failled and from July 27 to August 18, British Royal Marines and a unit of the French Garde Mobile were deployed to the Vanuatu's capital island but did not invade Espiritu Santo as the soon-to-be government had hoped. The troops were recalled shortly before independence. Following independence, Vanuatu, now governed by Father Walter Lini, requested assistance from Papua New Guinea, whose forces invaded and conquered Espiritu Santo.

~ Culture ~

Santo, with many wrecks and reefs to be explored, is a very popular tourist destination for divers. Champagne Beach draws tourists with its white sand and clear waters. The "Western Side" of the island contains many caves which may be explored. The local people make their living by supporting the tourist trade, by cash-crop farming, mostly copra but some cacao and kava as well as peanuts, or by subsistence farming and fishing. Customary beliefs of a more modern sort are found among followers of the Nagriamel movement based in Fanafo. For almost all Santo's people custom plays a large part in their lives, regardless of their religion. The chief system continues strongly in most areas.

~ Economy and Infrastructure ~

These villages are mostly self-sufficient with their own vegetable gardens, chickens and pigs. The airport is about five km from town. From Luganville, three ‘main’ roads emerged. One road runs along the south coast for about 40 km to end at the village of Tasiriki. Luganville is the only town on the island, the rest of the island is dotted with small villages. Santo is home to a number of cattle farms and exports much of its beef to Japan, Australia and other Pacific Island countries. Besides beef, tin fish and rice, bought in town, Santo has many foods that locals take for granted and that tourists enjoy as delicacies. Among these are sweet pineapples, mangoes, island cabbage, flying fox and coconut crab, as well as local nuts such as natapoa and the sweet fleshy-fruit nouse. There is a market in Luganville where local food such as manioc,taro,yam,cabbage and other freshly grown island food are being sold by happy smiling mothers. For groceries and many packaged goods,several small supermarkets exists where one can do his/her shopping. Many local people still rely on subsistence farming for their food. Most villages have a garden that is tended by men and women alike. Taro and yam are commonly grown in these gardens, and are mainstays of the local diet.

~ Biodiversity ~

The island of Espiritu Santo is home to all of Vanuatu's endemic birds, including the Santo Mountain Starling, a species restricted entirely to Santo. Two protected areas have been established to safeguard the island's biodiversity; the Loru Conservation Area on the east coast and the Vatthe Conservation area in the north. Vathe conservation area: Situated in Big Bay, on the North side of the island, you will walk through the rain forest as your guide tells you about the local plants, trees and birds. A great tour for bird watchers and nature lovers. It is an easy but long walk. There are many mosquitoes, you will need good walking shoes and mosquito repellent. The Loru Rainforest Protected Area: It is situated in the lowland rainforests of Santo. Established in 1993 by Chief Caleb Ser, the 220 hectare reserve supports a rich variety of Vanuatu's bird, bat and plant life as well as a diverse range of marine species in the two-kilometre stretch of fringing reef. Espiritu Santo Tourism Association members - updated 8th April 2017

::: Accommodations :::

~ Island resort ~

Aore Island Resort
www.aoreresort.com

Bokissa Island Resort
www.bokissa.vu

Oyster island Resort
www.oysterisland.com

Ratua Private Island
www.ratua.com

~ Resort/Hotel ~

Beachfront resort
www.thebeachfrontresort.com

Coral Quays Resort
www.coralquays.com

Hotel Santo
www.hotelsanto.com.vu

The Espiritu & Car rental
www.the-espiritu.com

~ Lodge ~

Deco Stop Lodge
www.decostop.com.vu

Turtle Bay Lodge
www.turtlebaylodge.vu

~ Boutique Accommodation ~

Barrier Beach House
www.barrierbeachhouse.com.au

Hidden Cove Eco Retreat
www.hiddencoveecoretreat.com

Moyyan House by the sea
www.moyyan.com

Sunrise Beach Cabanas Eco Resort
www.sunrisebeachcabanas.com

Village de Santo
www.villagedesanto.com

~ Rental House ~

Aoredise
www.aoredise.com

Aore Point Private Retreat
www.privateretreat.holiday

Mahimahi Beach Villa
[email protected]

Malvanua island
www.malvanuaisland.com

SAILS
www.sailsbeachhouse.com

Santo Vista Cottage
www.santovistacottage.com

Turtle Bay Beach House
www.turtlebaybeachhouse.com

~ Budget ~

Hibiscus Attraction Center Motel
[email protected]

Unity Park Motel
www.unityparkmotel.com

::: Scuba diving Operators :::

Allan Power Dive Tours
www.allan-power-santo.com

Aore Adventure Sports & Lodge
www.aoreadventures.com/


::: Land Tour operators :::

Freshwater Plantatopn
www.freshwater.vu

Millennium Cave Tour
www.millenniumcavetour.weebly.com

Paradise Tours
www.paradisetourssanto.net

Santo Dual Eco Attraction
www.santobluehole.com

Santo Heritage Tours
www.heritagetours.com.vu

Tam Tam Garden Tour
www.tamtamgardentour.com

::: Fishing charter operators :::

Fiesta Charters
www.santogamefishing.com

::: Horse Riding Operator::::

Santo Horse Adventures
www.facebook.com/SantoHorseAdventures

::: Sailing boat/ Boat operators:::

Cruising Safari Vanuatu
www.vanuatuparadise.com

Paradise Lodge & Sailing Adventures
www.sailingvanuatu.com

::: Inbound Tour Operator :::

Wrecks to Rainforest
www.wreckstorainforest.com

::: Cafe & Restaurants :::

Aore Art Cafe
www.aoreartcafe.com

Aore Island Cafe
www.aroeislandcoffee.com

::::: Property Management ::::

Pacific Fist Development
[email protected]

Lungna Investment
[email protected]

:::::: Association member :::::::

First National Santo
www.firstnationalsanto.com

01/01/2025

🎆✨ Happy New Year from Espiritu Santo! ✨🎆

As we welcome 2025, we extend our warmest wishes to everyone near and far. May this year bring you less drama, fewer frustrations, and an abundance of happiness, sparkles in your eyes, and moments to cherish!

🌴 To our visitors:
We are deeply grateful to all the travelers who chose to visit Santo this past year. And we invite the future ones to explore the beauty of Vanuatu and discover the unique charm of Santo. From the crystal-clear blue holes to breathtaking beaches like Champagne Beach and world famous dovong sites, from thrilling hikes to Waterfalls to kayaking adventures and cultural experiences, our island is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

🌟 To our tourism operators:
You’ve shown resilience and heart since the reopening of borders, and we wish you a thriving year filled with success, growth, and the joy of welcoming travelers from around the world. Your hard work in sharing Santo’s beauty doesn’t go unnoticed!

Let’s make 2025 a year of connection, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Come visit us in Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu – where nature, culture, and smiles are always waiting for you!

Happy New Year! 🥂
▪︎ Espiritu Santo Tourism Association

✈️🏝☀️ How to Get to Santo: Your Travel GuideSolomon Airlines offers International flights from Honiara, Brisbane, and Au...
30/12/2024

✈️🏝☀️ How to Get to Santo: Your Travel Guide

Solomon Airlines offers International flights from Honiara, Brisbane, and Auckland, making it easier than ever to reach our tropical paradise.

𝗙𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲:
Monday: IE722 (Honiara - Santo)
Tuesday: IE711 (Auckland - Port Vila - Santo)
Thursday: IE726 (Brisbane - Santo)

Make sure to check their latest schedules and book your tickets in advance at : https://www.flysolomons.com/

For domestic flights from Port-Vila to Santo, you can check with Air Vanuatu. ☎️ Bookings only by email at [email protected] or by phone +67823838

Enjoy your adventure in Santo!🌴

Imagine yourself sitting on a soft, powdery beach, almost all to yourself. The sea breeze gently caresses your face, and...
27/12/2024

Imagine yourself sitting on a soft, powdery beach, almost all to yourself. The sea breeze gently caresses your face, and the endless turquoise horizon stretches before you.

This dream can come true, only in Santo, Vanuatu!

Book your flight with Solomon Airlines (from Brisbane or Auckland) and experience Island Life at its finest 🌴✨️

📷 IG Gaellia

25/12/2024

🎄 The Espiritu Santo Tourism Association wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season!

May this special time bring peace, happiness, and cherished moments with loved ones. Here’s to a brighter 2025, filled with hope and free from disasters. ✨️

We look forward to welcoming you to Santo, your tropical paradise. 🌴

A big thank you to the last 3 Cruise Ships who visited Santo this weekend: Pacific Encounter, Carnival Luminosa & Pacifi...
23/12/2024

A big thank you to the last 3 Cruise Ships who visited Santo this weekend: Pacific Encounter, Carnival Luminosa & Pacific Adventure. 🚢🏝

And can't wait to welcome Queen Elisabeth and NG Orion this coming week. 🌺 We know our visitors will have an amazing time exploring the natural and beautiful beaches, blue holes and scenery that Santo has to offer. ☀️🌴🏞

Commercial Domestic and International flights have started to fly again in Vila yesterday Sunday 22!Right on time for yo...
23/12/2024

Commercial Domestic and International flights have started to fly again in Vila yesterday Sunday 22!
Right on time for your Xmas holidays 🎄

Our heart and thoughts are still with the families grieving during this time 🤍

Commercial domestic air services operational post earthquake disaster

📣 Port Vila International Airport will reopen to commercial airline operations tomorrow, Sunday, 22 December 2024.✅ Runw...
21/12/2024

📣 Port Vila International Airport will reopen to commercial airline operations tomorrow, Sunday, 22 December 2024.

✅ Runway infrastructure has been inspected and certified safe.
✅ Aviation fuel is confirmed uncontaminated by specialists.

Following close consultations with all our airport agencies, we are pleased to announce that we will be reopening Port Vila International Airport to commercial airline operations tomorrow (Sunday 22 December, 2024).

All air operators/airlines have been notified via published 'Notice to Airmen' (NOTAMS) as of this morning.

We encourage stranded passengers both within Vanuatu and abroad to contact your relevant airlines to confirm details of your travel plans.

Airports Vanuatu would like to address rumours circulating via social media regarding damages to our runway infrastructure and aviation fuel contamination. These rumours are untrue. Our certified aviation infrastructure engineers have completed a thorough inspection of all our airport pavements and have certified them as safe for operations having sustained no damage from the recent earthquake. Our aviation fuel supplier has also confirmed that aviation fuel supplied at Port Vila Airport is not contaminated based on assessments conducted by their fuel specialists. We encourage the general public to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated information that is not based on facts.

Please be advised that Port Vila is still recovering from the devastating earthquake experienced only a few days ago, with intermittent disruptions to utilities, communications, and various services ongoing. Extended processing times at our passenger terminals are to be expected over the next few days as Vanuatu continues its recovery efforts.
We ask for your patience and understanding as we do our best to facilitate your travel plans under these challenging circumstances and look forward to enabling the return of stranded passengers to their respective homes and families in time for Christmas.

✈️ ⚠️ UPDATE from Solomon Airlines  ⚠️✈️Solomon Airlines wishes to provide an update on its services to and from Vanuatu...
18/12/2024

✈️ ⚠️ UPDATE from Solomon Airlines ⚠️✈️

Solomon Airlines wishes to provide an update on its services to and from Vanuatu, following earthquake that struck Vanuatu yesterday.

𝙁𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙𝙪𝙡𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙨:
• IE722 (scheduled today WED) will be cancelled. Passengers will be rebooked on IE722, Friday 20 December

• IE710 (scheduled today WED) will be cancelled. Passengers will be rebooked on IE710, Friday 20 December

IE711 (scheduled tomorrow THU) will be cancelled. Passengers will be rebooked on IE711, Saturday 21 December

• IE723 (scheduled tomorrow THu) will be cancelled. Passengers will be rebooked on IE723, Saturday 21 December

• IE726 Brisbane to Santo to Port Vila and IE718 Port Vila to Brisbane (scheduled tomorrow THU) will operate as a Brisbane to Santo to Brisbane service only and will not include Port Vila

𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙋𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙖 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙡:
For passengers booked to or from Port Vila for travel until 5 January 2025, Solomon Airlines is offering options for refund, date change, or to cancel and use tickets in credit for 12 months from the date of ticket issue.

Passengers with existing bookings are encouraged to contact their reservations team for assistance [email protected] or visit their website at www.flysolomons.com for more information.

18/12/2024

📧 From Espiritu Santo Tourism Association to the people of Port-Vila

We are deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of lives in Port Vila following yesterday’s earthquake. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families affected. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone grieving during this difficult time. 🤍

Communication across the country has been significantly impacted, and assessments are still ongoing. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as updates become available.

We want to reassure everyone that Santo has not experienced any damage from the earthquake that struck Efate Island.

However our hearts are with the people of Port Vila as they navigate this challenging time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

🌺🤍

🌏 Update from Espiritu Santo Tourism AssociationWe want to reassure everyone that Santo has been spared any damage from ...
17/12/2024

🌏 Update from Espiritu Santo Tourism Association

We want to reassure everyone that Santo has been spared any damage from the earthquake that struck Vanuatu today. Our entire community is safe and well.

However, our thoughts are with those in Port Vila, where reports indicate significant damage, including collapsed buildings. 🤍 Please keep them in your prayers during this challenging time.

Communication across the country has been severely affected, and assessments are still ongoing. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as updates come in.

On a brighter note, yesterday, we hosted a wonderful Christmas gathering with our members. It was a joyous occasion to celebrate the season, strengthen connections, and reflect on the year ahead. ✨️

During the event, we had the honor of recognizing Mayumi Green from Wrecks to Rainforest for her long-standing dedication to the tourism industry and her invaluable contributions to our Association. Her passion and commitment have left a lasting impact on our community, and we are deeply grateful for her efforts.

Thank you for your continued support, and if you have any questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us. 🌺

14/12/2024
🌋 When Tanna Meets Santo 🌴A brand-new cultural tour has opened in Santo, bringing the vibrant traditions of Tanna Island...
13/12/2024

🌋 When Tanna Meets Santo 🌴

A brand-new cultural tour has opened in Santo, bringing the vibrant traditions of Tanna Island right to our shores! This exciting experience celebrates the unique beauty of Vanuatu’s cultural diversity, giving you a chance to discover the rich heritage of another island without leaving Santo.

The tour is a feast for the senses, featuring:
✨ Spectacular custom dances from Tanna
🎨 A fascinating sand-drawing demonstration and a mind-bending magic trick leaf from Ambrym Island.

This new tour is a must-see for cruise ship guests and anyone curious about the traditions of Tanna Island. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the culture, colors, and stories of our islands.

Don’t miss out! Reach out to Nabanga Cultural Tour directly for details and bookings, and enjoy this unforgettable journey into Tanna culture 🌋

11/12/2024

Local Delicacies 🍈🍴🥑

When in Luganville, make a stop by the main market to savor Vanuatu’s traditional dishes! Here’s what to try:

• Laplap – A dish made from grated root vegetables or banana mixed with coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves, and baked underground. It's a hearty, earthy treat!

• Simboro – Soft rolls of grated root vegetables like yam or taro, wrapped in island cabbage and simmered in coconut milk, giving it a flavorful taste.

• Nalot – A rich, creamy pudding of mashed taro or banana cooked with coconut cream. A favourite is made wirb breadfruit when it's the season!

• Tuluk – Ground meat, usually pork, encased in a layer of grated root vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked until tender. It’s savory!

And don’t miss a stroll through the stalls overflowing with fresh tropical fruits and veggies from the island! 🍍🍉🥭🍌

📣✨️ At ESTA, we are committed to fostering connections and providing resources that can help businesses like yours thriv...
09/12/2024

📣✨️ At ESTA, we are committed to fostering connections and providing resources that can help businesses like yours thrive. By becoming a member, you would gain access to a wide range of exclusive benefits, including industry events, networking opportunities, promotional support, and valuable insights tailored to the needs of hospitality businesses.

The Espiritu Santo Tourism Association is open to all Tourism Operators in Santo and joining us is very simple.
Just gather up these docs and send an email to the address below.
1. Business License
2. Business Name
3. Tourism permit
4. 5000vt annual membership fee.

Email this through to Gaëlle: [email protected]

Or come and have a chat with Marie-Louise at the Tu in town.

Let's all work together to create unforgettable experiences for visitors to our beautiful island of Santo 🏝

🌊🎶 Discover the Unique Water Music of Santo, Vanuatu 🎶🌊Experience the magic of Water Music, a one-of-a-kind tradition fr...
06/12/2024

🌊🎶 Discover the Unique Water Music of Santo, Vanuatu 🎶🌊

Experience the magic of Water Music, a one-of-a-kind tradition from the Banks Islands, now performed here in Santo. Women stand in the shallow waters, creating beautiful rhythms by splashing and tapping the water, telling stories passed down through generations.

Don’t miss this unforgettable cultural experience, in Santo, Vanuatu!

📷 IG Gaellia

✈️🏝☀️ How to Get to Santo: Your Travel GuideSolomon Airlines offers International flights from Honiara, Brisbane, and Au...
04/12/2024

✈️🏝☀️ How to Get to Santo: Your Travel Guide

Solomon Airlines offers International flights from Honiara, Brisbane, and Auckland, making it easier than ever to reach our tropical paradise.

𝗙𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲:
Monday: IE722 (Honiara - Santo)
Tuesday: IE711 (Auckland - Port Vila - Santo)
Thursday: IE726 (Brisbane - Santo)

Make sure to check their latest schedules and book your tickets in advance at : https://www.flysolomons.com/

For domestic flights from Port-Vila to Santo, you can check with Air Vanuatu. ☎️ Bookings only by email at [email protected] or by phone +67823838

Enjoy your adventure in Santo!🌴

ESTA was pleased to meet with both the New-Zealand and Australian High Comissioners while they were visiting Santo 👏🏼🌴✨️
01/12/2024

ESTA was pleased to meet with both the New-Zealand and Australian High Comissioners while they were visiting Santo 👏🏼🌴✨️

📣JUST LAUNCHED - JETSTAR BLACK FRIDAY RETURN FOR FREE Cheapest fares Vanuatu has ever seen. Return for FREE sale with Je...
29/11/2024

📣JUST LAUNCHED - JETSTAR BLACK FRIDAY RETURN FOR FREE

Cheapest fares Vanuatu has ever seen.
Return for FREE sale with Jetstar has just been released.
Prices from as low as $219 per person return SYD/VLI/SYD if you can snag a deal.
Then you can just jump in a Domestic flight to explore the beauty of Espiritu Santo 🏝

Available for booking until 11.59pm - 1 December. Travel Dates - 10 February to 10 April

www.jetstar.com/au/en/deals/return-for-free?dealsorig=*&flight-type=2&adults=1&origin=SYD&destination=VLI

Can't wait to see you! ✨️🌺

Return for FREE^ on now 👉 https://bit.ly/4hYM71n

Address

Luganville

Telephone

+6787386522

Website

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