There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Tongoa Island into a quick city adventure. From TGH, the local transport can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside TGH
Three things to verify before you walk out of TGH:
- 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 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the VUV. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
What to See and Do in Tongoa Island
For a layover visit to Tongoa Island, we’d suggest Bongabonga Village Visit and Tongoa Coastal Walk & Beach Discovery. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at TGH, check out Tongoa Airstrip Observation or Tropical Scenery Viewing to keep yourself occupied.
Getting to Tongoa Island from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Tongoa Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Tongoa Island, local travelers recommend Island Guesthouse Meal Experience. If you have time for a second stop, Local Nakamal (Kava Bar) Snacks is another popular pick.
Back at TGH, TGH Basic Refreshment Stand is the go-to. Local Fruit & Produce Seller rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Tongoa Island:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at TGH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Tongoa Island 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.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at TGH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tongoa Island itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TGH 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 Tongoa Island count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave TGH. 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.