Loading map...

HIR destination photo
VLI destination photo

HIRVLI

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the largest islands in Vanuatu and a spectacular descent over Mele Bay before landing at Bauerfield.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Makira Island

One of the largest islands in the Solomons, featuring rugged, densely forested terrain and deep valleys.

🏝️

Espiritu Santo

Vanuatu's largest landmass, known for its high peaks and expansive coconut plantations.

🌋

Lopevi Volcano

A stunning, isolated volcanic cone that juts sharply out of the Coral Sea.

🌊

Mele Bay

Vibrant turquoise waters and coral reefs during the final approach into Port Vila.

🏘️

Port Vila Cityscape

A panoramic view of the capital city, the harbor, and Iririki Island as the plane lines up for the runway.

The right side is ideal for capturing the iconic conical shape of Lopevi. During the descent into VLI, planes typically approach from the north and turn over the bay, making the right side the best for coastal photography.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌴

Guadalcanal Shores

Aerial views of the eastern tip of Guadalcanal and its surrounding coral reefs upon departure.

🌋

Gaua Volcano

View the massive caldera and Lake Letas on this volcanic island in the Banks group.

🏝️

Maewo and Pentecost

Long, narrow islands with dramatic cliffs and steep green ridges.

🔥

Ambrym Caldera

Look for smoke and volcanic activity from the Marum and Benbow craters.

🏖️

Epi Island

Crystal clear lagoons and small offshore islets visible as you head south.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun over the Pacific. Keep an eye out for the smoke plumes from Ambrym's active volcanoes mid-flight which are often visible even from high altitudes.

Top Activities in Port-vila
Route Information

Distance: 1,282 km (797 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min

Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)

Arrival: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.