Vanuatu is located in Melanesia, and its capital is Port Vila. It has a population of approximately 327,777 and covers an area of about 12,190 km². Its official currency is the Vanuatu vatu (VUV).
What stands out
People & place
26.9 /km² across 12,190 km²
Vanuatu has a recorded population of 327,777 and a reported surface area of 12,190 km².
Economic snapshot
$1.12 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $1.12 billion and GDP per capita at $3,411 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Vanuatu is a sovereign island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, known for its volcanic landscapes and vibrant indigenous cultures.
The country consists of 83 islands, of which 65 are inhabited, spread over a chain of volcanic peaks and coral reefs. Its total area is approximately 12,200 km².
Vanuatu is rich in Melanesian traditions, featuring dozens of distinct tribes, each with unique customs, music, and ceremonies. The famous Landship Festival celebrates this heritage.
Formerly the New Hebrides, Vanuatu gained independence from joint British and French colonial administration in 1980. The nation has since maintained a stable democratic system.
Key facts
Vanuatu comprises 83 islands in the South Pacific.
Its capital city is Port Vila on the island of Efate.
Official languages include Bislama, English, and French.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Melanesia