Shefa Province, Vanuatu Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Nestled in the heart of Vanuatu, Shefa Province beckons with its stunning collection of 15 islands. Shefa Province offers travelers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities unlike anywhere else in the South Pacific. The name “Shefa” cleverly combines the first letters of Shepherd Islands, which form part of this gorgeous region.

From the main island of Efate to the smaller gems like Nguna, Pele, and Epi, you’ll discover pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and friendly villages at every turn. The province sits about 1,750 km east of Australia and 540 km northeast of New Caledonia, making it a truly remote paradise waiting to be explored.

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As you island-hop through Shefa, each destination reveals its own personality – whether you’re seeking underwater adventures, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, or connecting with locals who’ll welcome you with warm smiles and fascinating stories about their island home.

How To Get To Shefa Province

Shefa Province is located in the central part of Vanuatu and includes the main island of Efate, Epi, and the beautiful Shepherd Islands. Getting there is part of the adventure!

If you’re heading to Efate (where Port Vila, the capital city, is located), you’ll likely arrive by international flight at Bauerfield International Airport. From Port Vila, you can explore the rest of Efate island.

Local Transportation in Port Vila:

Local buses cost 150 VT per trip within Port Vila
Bus fares start from 200 VT to villages outside the city
Buses are an interesting way to see the town and interact with locals

Traveling to Other Islands in Shefa:

To reach the Shepherd Islands from Port Vila, you have two main options:

Travel with locals for 500 vatu each way
Charter a boat for around 5000 vatu

The journey from Port Vila to Emua wharf or Takara landing (jumping-off points for the Shepherd Islands) takes about 1 hour and costs about 500 vatu per person.

When planning your trip, remember that boat schedules can be irregular. It’s best to check current departure times and book in advance when possible.

Don’t forget to bring a map of the province to help navigate between islands. The extra preparation will make your journey through this stunning province much smoother!

Shefa Province Vanuatu 1 — Shefa Province Vanuatu

What To See In Shefa Province

The Blue Lagoon is a must-visit spot in Shefa Province. Located just 30 minutes from Port Vila, this stunning swimming hole features crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Eton Beach on the eastern side of the island offers pristine sugar-white sands. You can easily reach it within a 30-minute drive from Port Vila, making it an ideal day trip destination.

Don’t miss the bubbling volcanoes scattered throughout the archipelago. These natural wonders provide an exciting glimpse into the earth’s powerful forces at work.

The coral reefs surrounding Shefa Province are teeming with vibrant marine life. Pack your snorkeling gear to explore these underwater gardens up close.

Port Vila Highlights:

National Museum (featuring ancient artifacts and cultural exhibits)
Local markets (perfect for finding authentic crafts)
Waterfront restaurants (serving fresh seafood)

Remote waterfalls hidden throughout the province offer peaceful retreats from the tropical heat. Ask locals for directions to these less-visited natural gems.

For an authentic cultural experience, join a Vanuatu Cultural Tour. You’ll witness living traditions and learn about the rich heritage of the islands from knowledgeable guides.

The sweeping landscapes provide endless photo opportunities. From lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines, you’ll want to keep your camera ready at all times.

Read our articles on the best things to do in Shefa Province, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Shefa Province, Vanuatu for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Shefa Province

Read our article on hotels near Shefa Province, Vanuatu for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Shefa Province, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

Things To Do In Shefa Vanuatu — Shefa Vanuatu

History Of Shefa Province

Shefa Province has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Before Europeans arrived, Melanesian people inhabited the islands that now make up this central Vanuatu province.

The area’s recorded history began when European explorers reached these shores. A Spanish expedition led by Portuguese navigator Fernandes de Queirós was among the first Europeans to visit what is now Vanuatu in the early 1600s.

During the colonial era, Shefa’s islands were part of the New Hebrides, jointly ruled by Britain and France in an unusual arrangement called a condominium. This dual governance lasted until Vanuatu gained independence in 1980.

The province takes its name from the initial letters of its main island groups: Shepherd Islands, Epi, and Efate (fa). This clever naming convention gives you a glimpse into how the modern province was formed.

When Vanuatu reorganized its administrative divisions in 1994, Shefa became one of the nation’s six provinces. The provincial capital is Port Vila, which also serves as Vanuatu’s national capital.

Today, Shefa Province is home to over 78,000 people spread across its beautiful islands. When you visit, you’ll find communities that maintain strong connections to their traditional cultural practices while embracing modern developments.

The province’s history has shaped its unique blend of Melanesian traditions, colonial influences, and contemporary island life that makes it such a fascinating destination for you to explore.

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Shefa Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs