The Epule Linda Tour combines a canoe ride with a cultural welcome, a shared meal and the opportunity to swim in the river. The tour takes guests from the sea to Epule village, giving the journey a distinct local focus.
By Canoe to Epule Village
The Epule Linda Tour is collectively owned by the village of Epule. Guests travel by canoe from the sea up the river to the village. The visit therefore begins on the water and then continues into the village; the journey is part of the tour.
On arrival, local warriors welcome guests with a traditional dance. For the welcome, they wear traditional clothing and carry spears. After the dance, guests are led to a small hut. There, the experience includes a shared feast and entertainment by a local stringband.
Guests on the tour can also swim in the river. The itinerary therefore includes both a welcome and a shared meal, as well as an activity in the water. If you are planning to take the tour, check in advance whether it is offered on your chosen date.
Shefa as a Wider Travel Destination
The wider travel destination of Shefa includes the main island of Efate. Efate is accessible via Bauerfield International Airport and is connected to the surrounding islands by domestic flights and maritime links. As travel and flight schedules can change, check the latest connections for your trip.
Efate’s landscape ranges from rugged coastline and gently rolling green hinterland to fast-flowing rivers, waterfalls, secluded sandy coves and lagoons. At Eton Beach, the area protected by the reef has calm, relatively shallow water. The beach is suitable for children and adults who are new to snorkelling. The wider travel destination of Shefa is also home to Mele Cascades, a waterfall surrounded by lush tropical forest.
Shefa also offers distinct destinations for culture and history. Chief Roi Mata’s Domain comprises three sites dating from the early 17th century on Efate, Lelepa and Artok. The site bears witness to the connection between oral tradition and archaeology, as well as the enduring legacy of Roi Mata’s social reforms and conflict resolution.
In Port Vila, the National Museum of Vanuatu displays traditional objects such as masks, sculptures and ancient tools, as well as exhibitions on Vanuatu’s colonial and post-colonial history. Exhibitions may change. Visitors can try kava in many bars in Port Vila.
Accommodation options in the wider travel destination of Shefa also vary by island. Emae and Tongoa in the Shepherd Islands have village homestays and individual island bungalows. If you include these islands in your search, check availability for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: SounaĂŻ, Mele Maat, Eton, Port Vila, Mele, Port Havannah
Back to the wider travel overview: Shefa.
