A long layover in Ablow is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Mota Lava Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Ablow, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Vanuatu vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Ablow is roughly 60 minutes from MTV via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Ablow from MTV
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How to Spend Your Time in Ablow
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ablow, two standouts are:
- City Center Walk — Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
- Local Market — The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MTV, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near MTV
In Ablow
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside MTV
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Ablow might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at MTV aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Ablow itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MTV is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Ablow and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MTV.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Ablow genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.