Getting from Bauerfield International Airport to Port Vila is a short ride of about 6 km, but what you pay depends entirely on what type of transport you choose and where exactly your accommodation is.
Taxi fares from VLI
Taxis at Bauerfield do not use meters. The fare is agreed upon before you get in. For a ride to central Port Vila, expect to pay between 2,000 and 3,500 VUV (roughly $16-28 USD). If your hotel is further out along the coast, toward Mele Beach or Erakor Lagoon, the fare can reach 4,000-5,000 VUV. These prices are for the vehicle, not per person, though some drivers may try to charge per head during busy periods.
There is no official taxi tariff posted at the airport. Having a sense of what the ride should cost before you arrive gives you a reasonable starting point for the conversation with your driver.
Minibus prices
Public minibuses running along the main road charge a flat 150-200 VUV per person. This is by far the cheapest option, but minibuses do not enter resort areas or go off the main route. If your hotel is not on the main road, you will need to walk or arrange something else for the last stretch. With luggage, this becomes impractical quickly.
Resort shuttle costs
Some Port Vila hotels and resorts offer airport transfers as part of your booking, or for a separate fee. Prices range from free to around 4,000 VUV per person each way. It is worth asking your accommodation directly, as this can sometimes be the simplest option if included.
Pre-booked private transfer
A private airport transfer typically costs between 2,500 and 4,500 VUV depending on the destination. The price is fixed at booking, so there are no surprises. You get a named driver waiting for you at arrivals, help with luggage, and a direct ride to your door. For families or anyone arriving after a long series of flights, the certainty and comfort are worth the small premium over a negotiated taxi fare.
What affects the price
The main factors are distance (central Port Vila vs. coastal resorts), time of day (late arrivals may face higher taxi quotes), vehicle size (if you need a van for a group), and whether you pre-book or negotiate on arrival. Currency also matters: paying in Vatu gives you the best rate. Paying in foreign currency at the airport will almost always cost you more.
Bottom line
For most travelers heading to central Port Vila, the real cost difference between a taxi and a pre-booked transfer is small. The transfer gives you fixed pricing and someone waiting for you. The taxi gives you flexibility but requires negotiation. Either way, budget around 2,500-4,000 VUV and you will be in the right range.