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SON destination photo
ZGU destination photo

SONZGU

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular approach to Gaua, featuring the massive Lake Letas and the active Mount Gharat volcano as you descend into the Banks Islands.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Coral Sea Deep Blue

Expansive views of the deep Pacific trenches between the Sanma and Torba provinces.

💧

Lake Letas

A breathtaking view of the largest freshwater lake in Vanuatu, located in the center of Gaua's caldera.

🌋

Mount Gharat

The active volcanic cone protruding from the lake, often seen venting steam or volcanic gases.

🌊

Siri Waterfall

If the flight path tracks east, look for the 120-meter drop where the lake overflows toward the sea.

The right side is essential for the iconic 'volcano-within-a-lake' view. Choose a window seat behind the wing for the widest perspective of the Gaua caldera. Flight paths often circle the island clockwise, making the right side the prime spot for photography of the crater.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏖️

Espiritu Santo Coastline

Aerial views of the white sands and turquoise waters of Shark Bay and Turtle Bay shortly after takeoff.

🏝️

Lathu and Thion Islands

Small, lush uninhabited islands surrounded by vibrant coral reef systems north of Santo.

🌋

Gaua Western Ridges

The rugged, jungle-clad western slopes of the Gaua volcanic massif as the plane maneuvers for landing.

Sit toward the front to avoid engine heat haze. This side is better for viewing the intricate reef patterns along the northern tip of Espiritu Santo during the first 10 minutes of flight. Morning flights provide excellent soft light on the coastal lagoons.

Top Activities in Gaua Island
Route Information

Distance: 148 km (92 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 15 min

Departure: SON (-15.505000114399998, 167.220001221)

Arrival: ZGU (-14.218099594099998, 167.587005615)

Route Type: Domestic

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