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Nanda Blue Hole
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Nanda Blue Hole, also known as Jackie's Blue Hole, is one of the most spectacular freshwater phenomena on the island of Espiritu Santo. This deep blue spring is created by groundwater that is filtered through the limestone mountains in the island's interior, emerging at the surface in a deep depression. The exceptional clarity and intense sapphire colour of the water are the result of the basin's depth and high mineral content. Geographically, Nanda is located near the east coast of Santo and is surrounded by dense jungle and ferns. The basin reaches depths of over 15 metres, with the bottom often remaining visible in minute detail. The local family managing the area has constructed wooden walkways and platforms to minimize the ecological footprint of visitors. Special aquatic plants thrive in the margins of the blue hole, providing shelter for small fish. Nanda is considered one of the best-preserved blue holes in Vanuatu and is a prime example of protecting local water resources through sustainable management.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Nanda Blue Hole · Thar Secret Blue Hole · Blue hole
- Nearby: Big Nambas Territory (89 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 272 | 274 | 271 | 272 | 183 | 162 | 116 | 105 | 109 | 151 | 175 | 170 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Nanda Blue Hole is located on the east coast of Espiritu Santo and is easily accessible via the paved East Coast Road. From Luganville, the trip by taxi or rental car takes about 45 minutes.
Best season
A visit is worthwhile in any weather, but on sunny days the blue water shines particularly intensely. The dry season from May to October usually guarantees clear conditions without turbidity caused by rainwater.
Terrain & paths
The terrain around the water hole is well-developed, with wooden walkways and platforms facilitating access to the water. The paths are flat and completely problem-free even for less experienced hikers.
What to bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, and snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world in the clear spring water. Insect repellent can be useful for the surrounding vegetation near the water.
Parking
There is a small, easily accessible parking lot right at the entrance of the private grounds. Most visitors arrive with organized tours or get dropped off by taxi and picked up later.
Safety
The water is very deep in places, so non-swimmers should be cautious or use swimming aids. The wooden walkways can become slippery when wet, so careful footing on the platforms is advised.
Time needed
A stay of 2 to 4 hours is usually sufficient for plenty of swimming and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere at the on-site café. Many combine this with a visit to other nearby blue holes.
Geography
Facts
- Nanda is regarded as one of the deepest blue holes on Espiritu Santo.
- The water is filtered through kilometres of underground limestone caves.
- Underwater visibility often exceeds 30 metres due to the water's purity.
- The site has been owned and managed by a local family for generations.
- A small café structure on-site was built entirely from local sustainable materials.
- The water temperature remains a constant 24 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Nanda Blue Hole (3)
Blue hole
Freshwater-filled sinkhole, turquoise in color.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Nanda Blue Hole?
A crystal-clear, deep blue natural spring pool.
Can I swim there?
Yes, swimming in the clear water is the highlight.
Is the water cold?
It is refreshingly cool and pleasant.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, paid on-site to the landowners.
How do I get there?
Best by rental car or taxi on Espiritu Santo.
Nanda Blue Hole: where is it located?
Nanda Blue Hole is located in Vanuatu.
Nanda Blue Hole: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nanda Blue Hole, Thar Secret Blue Hole, Blue hole.
Nanda Blue Hole: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Nanda Blue Hole: why is it worth visiting?
Nanda Blue Hole, also known as Jackie's Blue Hole, is one of the most spectacular freshwater phenomena on the island of Espiritu Santo.
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Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Shark Bay
Shark Bay is a tranquil bay on Espiritu Santo known for its clear waters and extensive seagrass meadows.
Lonnoc Beach Coral Garden
Lonnoc offers a sheltered reef system with an exceptionally high density of soft corals and reef fish.
Champagne Beach
Champagne Beach is famous for its white sand and bubbling waters at low tide, caused by volcanic gases leaking through the seafloor.
Champagne Beach Reefs
Famous for volcanic gases bubbling up in shallow water, creating a unique marine environment.
Bomber No. 2 Wreck
The well-preserved wreck of a US bomber from World War II, located near Luganville.
Unity Park Luganville
Unity Park is the central public green space and event venue in the city of Luganville.
Luganville Quonset Huts
These distinctive corrugated iron huts are remnants of the massive US military presence in Luganville during the Pacific War.
Nature
Oyster Island Mangroves
This small island near Santo hosts an important ecosystem for oysters and other shellfish within its mangroves.
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Circe Blue Hole
A lesser-known blue hole distinguished by its deep sapphire color and surrounding undisturbed wilderness.
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Matevulu Blue Hole
Matevulu is one of the largest blue holes on Santo, known for its lush mangroves lining the banks.
🗺️
Riri Blue Hole
Riri Blue Hole is accessible via a shallow river creek rich in mangroves and riparian vegetation.
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Loru Conservation Area
Loru protects one of the last coastal rainforests on Espiritu Santo, serving as a haven for rare bat species.
Aore Island Reefs
The coastal waters of Aore are rich in brain corals and provide habitats for diverse marine invertebrates.
More places
🗺️
Shark Bay Coconut Oil Factory
A processing plant on Espiritu Santo producing high-quality coconut oil from copra for export and local use.
🗺️
Sarakata Hydroelectric Power Station
This facility provides most of the electricity for Luganville, reducing reliance on expensive imported diesel fuel.
Pekoa Airport Terminal
The Pekoa Airport terminal serves Luganville and the island of Espiritu Santo.
Santo War Memorial
This memorial in Luganville honors those who served on Espiritu Santo during World War II.
Santo Meat Packers
The primary meat processing facility in Luganville, packing premium beef for export to markets like Japan.
Pekoa Cargo Center
The logistics facility at Pekoa Airport on Espiritu Santo supports the export of northern agricultural products.
Luganville Wharf
The country's second-largest port on Espiritu Santo, serving as a hub for exporting copra, beef, and cocoa.
Million Dollar Point Reef
US military equipment dumped after WWII has created a unique artificial reef with high marine biodiversity.