The Vanuatu Cultural Centre, Efate, Vanuatu

4.0 (224 reviews) Spent Ranking #11 in Port Vila Speciality Museums

A great introduction to Vanuatu and Melanesian culture

A small cultural centre, it nonetheless has an interesting collection of items to give an introduction to the local culture, and Melanesia in general. The museum staff are knowledgeable and always willing to share more. Southeast Asians might recognise some similarities, but there are still notable differences that are very interesting distinctions between the two sub-regions. Definitely make sure to witness a sandroing demonstration at least once, it is a UNESCO intangible heritage of Vanuatu. Well worth visiting.

Address

Saralana Park, Vanuatu.

Mobile

+678 22129

Current local date and time now

Sunday, May 12, 2024, 19:22

User Ratings

4.0 based on (224 reviews)

Excellent
39%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
4%
Terrible
1%

Reviews

  • 4MMR1316 5:00 PM Mar 24, 2013
    Definitely worth a visit
    Every trip we've said we would visit the Cultural Centre, we finally got around to it on our last trip and I'm so glad we did! As far as 'museums' go it's quite small and may not have many displays but don't let that deter you. The highlight of the visit was the guide, Edgar, who demonstrates traditional Vanuatu sand drawing, plays the bamboo flute and bamboo pipe piano. Edgar was so informative and had a captive audience as he told stories and illustrated them using sand drawing (sandroing) as he spoke. The artifacts on display are really interesting as is the history, cost is 1000 vatu (roughly $10 AUD) many may feel this is overpriced but we were more than happy to pay and enjoyed every minute of it....the history and customs were part of the reason we fell in love with Vanuatu so we encourage everyone to delve a bit deeper than the beautiful blue water & amazing sea life and find out about this amazing place and it's traditions and culture.
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  • 5Honest Traveller 2022 5:00 PM Jan 25, 2013
    Great culture
    Starting to tell a true picture of the culture. A lot missing from the slave trade years though when many were blackbirded to come to Australia etc. But still very informative and interesting.

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