Lelepa Island Tours Explore Paradise in Vanuatu

Discover Lelepa Island, a paradise of lush rainforest, palm fringed beaches, and vibrant culture. Just a short boat ride from Port Vila, our day tours take you beyond ordinary sightseeing, immerse yourself in island life and experience local traditions

A Natural
Paradise Awaits

Nestled off the coast of Efate Lelepa Island is a peaceful haven rich in history, culture, and untouched natural beauty.

Locally Run, Proudly
Ni-Vanuatu

Owned and operated by the local Lelepa Islanders, our team offers authentic Island experiences that celebrate tradition.

Unplug, Unwind, and Reconnect

Lelepa Island offers the perfect mix of serene landscapes, welcoming hospitality, and unforgettable memories.

Why Lelepa Island?

Lelepa Island, off the northwest coast of Efate, is a hidden gem cherished by locals as home. Nestled within 160 acres of undeveloped tropical rainforest and pristine beaches, it offers a peaceful yet exciting escape from Port Vila’s bustle.

As the only island day tour fully owned and operated by Lelepa Islanders, you’ll enjoy an authentic, supportive experience that gives back to the community.

Discover the Lelepa Island Sunken Plane Crash Story

Dive into history and adventure at Lelepa Island, where the tale of the Air Melanesiae Trislander YJ-RV3 unfolds beneath the crystal-clear waters. This extraordinary plane, which crashed in 1990 during a flight back from Tanna – home to an awe-inspiring active volcano -has been transformed into a stunning snorkeling attraction.

A Glimpse into History

On that fateful day, the skilled pilot, Keith Barlow, encountered a fuel problem that forced him to glide the Trislander from miles out to sea. With remarkable control, he landed it gently in a grassy paddock on east Efate, ensuring minimal damage and injuries. This incident not only showcased Barlow’s piloting prowess but also marked the beginning of the plane’s remarkable journey.

After its safe landing, the Trislander gained a new chapter in its life as a prop in the movie Till There Was You (1990), featuring stars like Jean Tripplehorn and Sarah Jessica Parker. Filmed on an old WWII US runway near Havanah Harbour, the plane was transformed into a simulated crash scene, towed through saplings in a creative display. Once the film wrapped, it was left on the beach at Havanah Harbour, waiting for its next adventure.

A New Home Under the Sea

The landowners, with a vision for preserving this piece of aviation history, made the decision to sink the Trislander at Lelepa Island. Now, it rests beneath the waves, providing an exciting snorkeling experience for visitors eager to explore this unique underwater attraction.

Why Visit Lelepa Island?

Snorkeling Adventure:

Our tour itinerary includes an unforgettable snorkeling experience around the sunken Trislander. Swim alongside vibrant marine life as you explore this historical relic.

Rich History:

Learn about the plane's incredible story, from its crash landing to its cinematic transformation, and how it became a part of Lelepa’s cultural tapestry.

Breathtaking Scenery:

Lelepa Island boasts stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches to lush landscapes, making it the perfect backdrop for your adventure.

Join us at Lelepa Island Tours for an exploration of the sunken Trislander. Immerse yourself in history, adventure, and the vibrant marine life of Vanuatu. Book your tour today and make your visit unforgettable!

Ready to dive into this historical adventure? Explore your options for snorkeling tours on Lelepa Island!

About Us

Lelepa Island Tours is a family-run, 100% Lelepa-owned business based in Port Vila. Our mission is to share our island’s natural beauty, culture, and traditions in a sustainable, respectful way. As recipients of multiple “Best Tour in Vanuatu” awards, our community-focused, authentic approach ensures you leave with lasting memories and new connections.

Our Commitment: The Nabanga Pledge

At Lelepa Island Day Tours, we proudly uphold the Nabanga Pledge – a promise to protect and respect Vanuatu’s culture, environment, and communities. As the only island day tour fully owned and operated by Lelepa Islanders, you’ll enjoy an authentic, supportive experience that gives back to the community.

Our tours are designed with care to ensure that every guest not only enjoys the natural beauty of Lelepa Island but also contributes to its preservation. From supporting locally owned businesses to minimising environmental impact, we aim to make tourism truly sustainable and meaningful.

What’s Included in the Tour

Our comprehensive Lelepa Island Day Tour packages include:

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Customer Feedback

      
   Lelepa Tours
   24 Google reviews 
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   A M 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a day! Hidden beaches, coral beauty and learning lots of local knowledge. Lunch was tasty and plentiful. Guides were fantastic, super friendly and up for a laugh. Shout out to Bradley and Jeffrey. Thank you for an amazing experience.
  
 
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   Ali 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. One of the best island tours we did. Perfect conditions for snorkeling and swimming. Brilliant guides and lunch as well. Got time to just chill out for a bit after lunch before heading around the back of the island to the marine reserve for more snorkeling and then to the village for a bush walk and meet the locals. Great crafts on offer as well. Highly recommend doing this if you have time. Thanks so much for creating a day that was truly memorable with the most stunning sunset on the way home.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Dobson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great day, amazing snorkelling, beautiful bbq lunch, great local tour guides, authentic village experience, highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Adelle Rose 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing day out at Lelepa island! Was so relaxing, amazing guides snorkelling sites. Highly recommend if you are looking an island / snorkelling trip
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tommy Gunz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Bradley and his team took me and my girlfriend on a tour we will never forget, the bus came and picked us up from our resort, took us to the boat ramp, first island stop was amazing the boys set up for lunch while we were out kayaking, snorkeling, swimming till it was time for lunch the food they put on was traditional and delicious, after that we went to the next spot wish was fish feeding and snorkeling, must say the 2nd spot was really a stunning, Bradley took us on a village walk to see Lelepa island and how they live some of the history we got told was very heartwarming, we met the kids as they prepared some singing for us and to see how happy they are with what they got that was truly amazing, really wish we could stay longer as time was against us, just wanted to say a massive Thankyou for the time today very genuine in every aspect the Bradley and Geoffrey would do anything for us as requested if they could it wasn’t even a question.. definitely must do tour with Lelepa island tour
  
 
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   Kevin Coleborn 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Im not the person that likes tours but what a fantastic day.... well looked after with plenty of great spots... I think Billy talks to much.... no he was a fantastic guide....
  
 
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   Virginia Garcia Eleisequi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend this company, it is run by locals. We had an amazing day and best snorkel we’ve had in port vila. The tour includes 2 snorkelling spots, kayak, lunch, afternoon coffee, walk around lelepa village, interaction with locals and transport back and forth to port vila. Really recommended, good value for money!
  
 
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   Sun Man 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wonderful experience in Vanuatu!! It was a last minute decision to go on this tour, and it turned out to be the best experience for us in Vanuatu. The tour is definitely worth the price. Pick up and drop off from the resort was included, and Billy and his companion was very friendly. In summary, it was a well organized tour which gave a wonderful experience of the reef (snorkelling, kayaking and reef fish feeding), village life and exposure to the culture and history of Vanuatu  - all in 6-8 hours!
  
 
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   Natascha Schultz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband and I went on this tour yesterday and had the most amazing day. The team took great care of us. Including cooking a delicious BBQ lunch for us while we snorkeled. The cave was amazing. We didn't know it existed and feel it was an amazing part of the tour. The second spot for snorkeling was stunning. So much to see. Could spend hours snorkeling. The village has beautiful souvenirs. Definitely recommend!
  
 
  
  
 
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