Passing through Tanna Airport? A layover in Tanna is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 45 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of TAH:
- Can you legally enter Vanuatu? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi/Minibus or Pre-arranged Hotel Transfer, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the VUV. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some VUV in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Tanna Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Minibus or Pre-arranged Hotel Transfer | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Minibus or Pre-arranged Hotel Transfer 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.
What to Budget for Your Tanna Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Tanna might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$16 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$34 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Exploring Tanna on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Tanna:
Start with White Grass Ocean Resort Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Lenakel Town Market Glimpse. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TAH, you can spend time at TAH Airport Waiting Area & Local Observation or try TAH Local Craft Display/Sales. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa Restaurant and Tanna Evergreen Resort Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tanna.
- At the airport: TAH Airport Snack Kiosk and TAH Local Produce Stand (informal) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at TAH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Tanna’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at TAH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Tanna or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TAH has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Tanna count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave TAH. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.