Fiji
Fiji is a beautiful island country consisting of an archipelago of 300 islands located in the Melanesia subregion of Oceania. This jewel of the South Pacific Ocean lies about 1770 Km north of New Zealand and 4450 Km southwest of Honolulu.
The clustered islets and islands of Fiji are filled with dense rainforest, exotic waterfalls, picturesque coral reefs, and shaggy volcano peaks. The endless coastline of the Fiji islands features a serene atmosphere with seagulls cooing, the waves crashing against the glistening sand, instilling a sense of calm in every visitor.
With more than 300 islands, this South Pacific paradise holds endless attractions for a visitor. The capital city of Suva lies on Viti Levu, the largest of the Fijian islands, and is known for its colonial architecture, lush green parks, museums, and centres of learning. The main international gateway to this county is the town of Nadi, close to which you can find relaxing hot springs, mud pools, and fascinating archaeological sites just waiting to be explored.
Each island in Fiji has something special to offer, and island-hopping is an activity through which you can experience them. The pristine waters surrounding the Fiji coastline are perfect for scuba diving, kayaking and other aquatic activities. On land, you can explore the uncharted wilderness by taking one of the many hiking trails and observe the native flora and fauna.
A perfect beachside holiday destination, Fiji has a warm tropical climate throughout the year. The temperature mostly lies between 26 and 31 degrees Celsius. The dry season occurs between May and October, and from November to April, the islands see heavy rain.
Fiji FAQ's
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Travel Advice
- If you are visiting a local village, dress conservatively and ensure to cover your back and shoulders.
- Carry along with your mosquito repellent, sunscreen, shades, resort wear, cameras, and light clothes.
- Do not offer candy to the children of the locals or provide them with any of the school supplies.
- People of Fiji are warm and friendly. Always smile when you greet someone.
- Reefs are great for snorkeling and diving. You can take an underwater camera to capture these delights.
- Make sure you visit even remote islands than the ones which are listed on most of the popular sites.
- Watch the village events of songs, dance, and storytelling performance.
- Dress modestly. Do not wear shorts, halter tops, or bare your shoulders when visiting this island.
- Wearing hats on this island is marked as a sign of disrespect, so avoid wearing it.
- Remove your shoes when entering homes or buildings.
- It is a custom of the people in Fiji to invite you to their homes and eat what they offer.
- Speak in a soft voice. In Fiji, a raised voice is considered a sign of expressing anger.
- Do not praise anything too much, as the locals of Fijis will give it to you as a gift even if they cannot afford it. Show respect but be cautious about praising anything too much.
- Always give the host a gift, if you plan to spend the night in the village.
- Most of the locals in Fiji are traditional. Make sure you respect their customs when you visit them.
Drinking Law
The legal drinking age in Fiji islands is 18 year and above. Unlike U.S, they will not check your documents to see if you are 18 years old or not unless and until you visit clubs or bars.
When is the best time to visit Fiji?
Fiji is a great place to visit throughout the year and the best time to visit this place depends on what you plan to do and what kind of holiday you want. Fiji is not a cheap place to travel to and the prices are high during peak season which lies between July and August.
So if you wish to get some good deals in terms of lodging, you can visit in February, March, October, June, and November. During these times, the islands are not that crowded and you can enjoy a romantic and peaceful holiday.
How to reach Fiji?
The cheapest way to reach Fiji is via air. You can catch a flight from any of the major Indian cities to Nadi International Airport in Fiji. But since it is a faraway country, there are no direct flights and most of them will take you to the island country via Singapore or Australia.
If you want to travel to Fiji via sea, it can cost you a huge sum of money, as you need to travel by yacht or a cruise ship. Not all the ports allow entry to foreigners and you need to know about the designated ports beforehand.
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What is the best public transport to commute around Fiji?
- Bus: If you wish to commute around the main islands in Fiji, buses are the best option as they operate on a routine basis around cities and towns.
- Minivan: If you need to get around a town, the 10-seater minivans are a good option as they are cheaper than the buses.
- Taxi: Taxis are a good transport option in cities like Suva and Nadi. They are usually cheap and the prices are government-regulated.
- Boats and Ferries: Cargo boats and ferries are the popular choice for tourists to travel from one island to the other. Ferries operate daily to and from the main tourist attractions.
What are the different activities one can do in Fiji?
2. Witness a fire walking festival: In the Mariamma temple in the city of Suva, you can see this spectacular festival where men walk barefoot over the fire. The devotees take a bath in the sea and slather turmeric on their face before the activity.
3. Surfing: The period between May and October is a perfect time for surfers to test their skills. Cloudbreak is the most famous surfing spot in Fiji and is known for its challenging waves.
4. Skydiving: Skydiving at Fiji offers you stunning views of sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, an experience that you won't likely forget too soon. While it's a costly activity, the thrill experienced its worth it.
5. Attend the Kava Ceremony: Navala is a picturesque village surrounded by grassy, rugged mountains. The locals welcome you with the kava ceremony when you enter the place, after which you get a detailed tour of the village.
6. Snorkelling: Mantaray and Castaway are the Fiji islands most famous for their snorkelling activities which let you witness the diverse marine life.
What are the famous tourist attractions in Fiji?
2. Tavoro Waterfall: Nestled in a thick forest, this waterfall in Bouma consists of three cascades. The main cascade is 24m long and you need to climb for about 30 minutes to reach the second one, and 20 further minutes to reach the third.
3. Snake God Cave: This old cave is located close to Korovou and is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Fiji, owing to the six stalactites that resemble the heads of snakes.
4. Navilawa: This is a quaint town surrounded by majestic mountains and timberland with several cascades presenting endless opportunities for swimming. You can also climb a rainforest trail to reach a beautiful streaming spring.
5. Tavuni Hill Fort: This is the most famous among all the forts in Fiji and is a historical site that was used abundantly during the ancestral war. The view from the fort is breathtaking and is ideal for capturing some great photographs.
6. Sigatoka Sand Dunes: At the mouth of the Sigatoka river, you will find these majestic sand dunes stretching on for 5 km and reaching a height of 20 m.
Which are some best beaches to visit in Fiji?
2. Namale Private Beach: This is a private beach where you get to enjoy the cool shade of coconut palm trees and enjoy a waterside cocktail. There are hiking and scuba diving activities available here.
3. Natadola Beach: Located close to the town of Nadi is the picturesque Natadola Beach, known for being perfectly swimmable all throughout the year. The turquoise blue waters are also perfect for snorkelling activities.
4. Seagrass Bay: Living in one of the villas in Laucala Island lets you access this private beach with its long stretches of white sand. Here, you can have a section of the beach just to yourself.
5. Honeymoon Beach: This crescent-shaped beach on Turtle Island is characterised by lackadaisical leaning palm trees, rocky headlands, and white sands. It is an ideal place for getting some tan.
Which water activities can be done in Fiji?
2. Reef Diving: The 100 km long Great Astrolabe Reef is an ideal reef diving spot. Dive into the depths of the deep blue sea and witness marine creatures like sharks and manta rays.
3. Surfing: Tavarua Island is a famous surfing spot where surfers from all around the world come to test their skills. If you are new to the activity, you can find instructors who will help you out.
4. Water Slide: Near Taveuni Island, you will find the thrilling Waitavala Water Slide which cascades through a few small waterfalls. Sliding up and down the waterfalls can be an enjoyable activity for thrill-seekers.
How to enjoy nightlife in Fiji?
2. Ice Bar: One of the most happening clubs in Fiji, this place has a lively atmosphere with loud music, cocktails, and dancing. It has a large open space where you can dance and an area for relaxation as well.
3. Traps Bar: This bar in Suva is a great place to meet new people in Fiji. It has two sections, and while the front area is laid back, the rear part is filled with young people dancing. So you get the best of both worlds here.
4. Cloud 9: This bar cum restaurant in Ro Ro Reef is famous for its Italian pizzeria. It is frequented by guest DJs who keep the visitors entertained.
Where can I go for hiking in Fiji?
2. Mount Batilamu: Mount Batilamu is located inside the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park near Viti Levu. The long hiking trail from Nase Lodge to Mount Batilamu takes you through forests, secluded swimming holes, and waterfalls.
3. Tavoro Falls: To hike to the top of Tavoro falls would take you around three hours or so. There are three waterfalls here and to reach the last one would be the most difficult. The second and third waterfalls are peaceful and secluded and from there you can see the islands of Qamea, Laucala, and Matangi.
4. Mount Tomanivi: Standing at 4341 feet, Mount Tomanivi is the highest mountain in Fiji, piercing the Viti Levu skyline. From the top, you get a stunning view of the Yasawa Island group.
Which are the famous cruises in Fiji?
2. Yasawa Explorer Cruise: This takes you to the magnificent Yasawa Islands where you can enjoy 3 days of undisturbed peace and quiet. Visit Modriki Island and enjoy cocktails on the deck before exploring Soso village and interacting with the locals.
3. Colonial Cruise: Depart from Port Denarau and set sail to port Levuka on Ovalay island which features colonial architecture from the 19th century.
Which are some of the romantic experiences for couples in Fiji?
2. Get a joint spa treatment: The Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa offers a couple's massage that improves blood flow and releases stress. It can be a great way to spend some time together with your partner without any distractions.
3. Explore the reefs together: The coral reefs of Fiji are magical and teeming with aquatic life. Join hands with your partner and dive into the depths of the turquoise ocean.
4. Enjoy a fancy dinner: In Fiji, you can find not only a variety of international cuisine as well as local delicacies. In Suva, the restaurants of Grand Pacific Hotel offer you the opportunity of enjoying a dinner with your partner beside an infinity pool.
5. Witness a Fijian Sunset together: There are few things more romantic than watching the sun set in the horizon, bathing the sandy beach and the ocean in a majestic golden glow. Natadola Bay is a great place to experience this wonderful natural phenomenon.
Is Fiji worth visiting for a honeymoon?
Here, you can visit several resorts, hotels and villas that cater to couples and give them the privacy and seclusion they wish for.
Which are the most beautiful waterfalls in Fiji?
1. Savusavu Waterfall: This waterfall near Savusavu village is located in a secluded spot, so you need a guide to get there. It features clean water perfect for a bath. Because the water is very clear, you can see the bedrock.
2. Biausevu Waterfall: This is a 20 m tall waterfall that draws tourists from all over the world, as well as the locals. The place is always crowded and you have to take a 3.3 km long hike in order to reach it.
3. Waitavala Waterfall: This is a private waterfall and you need to take permission to visit it. The path leading to this place is quite rough and requires you to wear hiking shoes.
4. Nakawaga Waterfalls: Located in a desolate spot within a rainforest, Nakawaga Waterfalls requires you to hike through a forest trail in order to reach it. There is a pool here where you can take a cool dip.
5. Wainibau Falls: This waterfall is located inside the Bouma National Heritage Park, amidst rainforest ravines. It features a clear waterbed, where you often get to see black bugs and fishes. This is also a spot where the beautiful Silktail bird, native to Fiji, is often spotted.
What is the currency of Fiji and where can I get my money exchanged?
The currency of Fiji is the Fijian Dollar which is equal to 35.22 Indian Rupee. You can get your money exchanged at the airports, tourist areas, hotels, and ferry ports. It is advisable that you wait until you're inside Fiji before exchanging your money as the exchange rates are more favourable there.
The exchange rates are generally quite high in hotels and airports, so alternatively you can visit an exchange booth in town or a bank to get your currency exchanged. You can also carry a traveller’s cheque or travel money cards for payment, but not every place accepts them.
What is the local food of Fiji? Which are the best places to taste this food?
Local Fijian foods include seafood cooked in coconut cream, baked or boiled fish, dalo roots, and cassava. Fried meat is popular, especially when served with rourou and dalo.
1. Nadina Fijian Restaurant: There is no better place to try authentic Fijian food than the Nadina Fijian Restaurant in Levu. You can try out the seafood delicacies here, as well as the kokoda, which is a dish consisting of fish cooked in a sauce made of tomatoes, chilli, onion, and coconut cream.
2. The Rhum-Ba: This restaurant in Port Denarau specializes in seafood and steak, and many surfers frequent this place looking for some delicious food. You can also try a cocktail from the bar and a rib-eye steak.
3. Tu’s Place: Tu's Place is Viti Levu is a restaurant where you can taste authentic Fijian cuisine made using local ingredients. Featuring a large menu, it is a great place to hang out with your friends and family.
What is the local language in Fiji and which are the most commonly used greetings?
Fiji has three official languages, English, Fijian, and Hindi. The indigenous Fijians mostly speak the Fijian language, although most of them speak either or both of the two other official languages. While there are several English-speakers in Fiji, the locals would love it if you know a few words and phrases in their language.
“Bula'' is the most common greeting you will hear in Fiji and it is a way to say hello. “Ni sa bula” is a greeting used in formal occasions to wish the other person happiness and good health. “Yadra” is another greeting which is commonly used during the morning.
Which are the best shopping places in Fiji and what are they famous for?
1. Municipal Handicraft Centre: At this shopping centre you can find local artefacts including handicrafts items. You can find cultural items at bargain prices here.
2. Maui Bay Shopping Centre: This shopping centre has several outlets featuring the top international clothes brands. If you're on a tight budget, you can get yourself local clothes items.
3. Savusavu Farmer’s Market: Both tourists and locals favour this local market famous for its collection of seafood and fruits. You can also find varieties of sweets, coconut oils, and coconut drinks at this market.
4. Lawai Pottery Village: If you’d rather visit a local place than a shopping mall, head to Lawai Pottery Village where you can see how pottery items are made. You can also buy some pottery items at bargain prices.
5. 21K Gallery: If you wish to buy some contemporary Fijian artwork, the 21K Gallery in Suva is a place that would meet your needs.
Which are the best islands to visit in Fiji?
1. The Mamanuca Islands: A short distance away from Denarau Island and Nadi, Mamanuca islands is a popular tourist spot boasting striking blue water and sublime white sand. This place gets a fair amount of sunshine and presents endless opportunities for water activities like snorkelling.
2. The Yasawa Islands: With steep peaks plunging into white-sand beaches, the Yasawa Islands are stunning indeed. You will find several small villages here, where you can live in a rustic fashion.
3. Viti Levu: This is the largest island in Fiji and also its main international gateway. Here you will find posh resorts with golf courses and private beaches, as well as Indian restaurants and souvenir shops along the streets.
4. Vanua Levu: If you are visiting Fiji purely for its natural attractions, you can head straight to Vanua Levu. Here, you will find the Wasali Nature Reserve, consisting of panoramic lookouts, hot springs, challenging hiking trails, and lush hillsides.
5. Taveuni: Taveuni is a paradise for bird watchers, with the Bouma National Park being home to silktails, kula lorikeets, and other species of birds. Another attraction is the Lavena Coastal Walk which is a 5 Km scenic hiking trail spanning the coastline.
6. Wakaya Island: This 2200 acre island holds luxury resorts with private beaches where you can reside in luxury villas and enjoy water sports like kayaking, fishing, and snorkelling.
Which are the major tourist attractions in Fiji?
The major tourist attractions in Fiji include:
- The expansive Mamanuca Islands
- The Kula Eco Park
- Bouma National Heritage Park, Taveuni Island
- Beqa Lagoon, Viti Levu
- Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple
- Navua River, Viti Levu
- Garden of The Sleeping Giant and Sabeto Hot Springs, Viti Levu
- Great Astrolabe Reef, Kadavu
- Sawa-i-Lau Caves, Yasawa Islands
- Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, Viti Levu
- Fiji Museum, Viti Levu
- The Levuka UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Thurston Gardens, Viti Levu
What are the things to do in Fiji?
The Fiji islands are replete with tourist activities and the country is brimming with travel adventures. Some of ‘’the’’ things to do here are:
- Jet-skiing and tow-boarding the precarious waves of Cloudbreak, which lies in a cloistered reef at the Mamanuca Islands.
- Taking the plush Blue Lagoon Cruise which offers a glimpse at the various islands here. Activities include swimming, diving, snorkelling, languid island picnics.
- Exploring the Sawa-i-Lau caves, Yasawa Islands, famous from the Brooke Shields’ starrer Blue Lagoon. The caves are believed to be the final resting place of the Yasawas and the inner cave is accessible by a secret underwater tunnel.
- Visiting the sand dune conservation site of Sigatoka National Park. Salient features of a tour here comprise an archaeological expedition to see ancient Lapita artefacts, stoneware, pottery.
- Sigatoka National Park is also a famous site for birding and birdwatching.
- Learning about Fiji’s indigenous flora and fauna at the Iguana-inhabited Kula Eco-Park, home to a diversity of tropical fish, sea turtles, lizards, snakes and birds.
- Idyllic swinging and listless-resting in a hammock at the beautiful orchid garden of The Sleeping Giant.
- Enjoying a therapeutic mud bath at the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool.
- Kayaking, canoeing, white-water rafting and boating along the length of River Navua and admiring the surrounding wildlife and tropical forests.
- Marvelling at the lush Tavoro Waterfalls at the Bouma National Heritage Park, watching the rare Tagimaucia flower in bloom near Lake Tagimaucia and rejoicing at the sweeping views from De Voeux Peak, a summit 1195 mts above sea-level, all located in this nature park.
Do I need to have any vaccinations before the trip to Fiji?
It is always best to be up to date on your routine vaccinations before travelling abroad. However, for Fiji, you will need shots for:
-Hepatitis A
-Typhoid
Furthermore, pregnant women are advised not to visit as Zika (neonatal virus) is rampant in Fiji.
Alternatively, some travellers may require vaccination against Hepatitis B and Yellow virus, only if the country you are travelling from is at risk for Yellow Virus, which is not the case in India.
Which are some famous beaches in Fiji?
The famous beaches are listed below:
- The sublime beaches of Yasawa Island are among the finest anywhere in Fiji. There’s a small island resort too which caters to about 17 couples at a time delivering a relaxed and private holiday experience.
- The Liku beach that can be found on the western end of Tokoriki Island is a long pearl white sandy beach. It has divine coral gardens and also known as Sunset Beach.
- Pacific Harbour has resort facilities there that are ideal for a spot of surfing, shark watching and swimming.
- Honeymoon Beach is one of the most picturesque in the country and is quite secluded. Couples often have the entire beach to themselves.
- For a luxurious stay and stunning coral colonies, Vatulele Beach is a must-visit.
- Matana Beach is known for being a beautiful secret. Its clean waters, scenic surroundings and pretty resorts make it bucket-list worthy.
- Natadola Beach, Viti Levu has some splendid spots for water-sports. It’s also stunning and possibly the best beach on Viti Levu.
How is the nightlife of Fiji? Where do all the parties happen?
Fijians enjoy a vivacious nightlife, partying at island bars and clubs across the country.
- Cloud 9, Ro Ro Reef, Mamanuca Islands, is known for its open-aired, cabana-like interiors.
- Beachcomber Island Resorts, Vuca Rd, is a popular spot for hen parties, stag parties and in house fests.
- Ed’s Bar and Ice-Bar are known for their tub thumping music.
- Trap’s Bar attracts students and is famous for its laid back, indie spirit.
What are best places to for scuba diving and snorkelling in Fiji?
Fiji is brimming with a diverse variety of sites for water-sports.
Beqa Shark Dive
Located in the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, this is quite a precarious adventure but a thrill for adventure tourists. You might encounter sea predators on your dive!
Bligh Passage
The deep waters here are teeming with a rich marine life and boasts an excellent coral preservation.
Great Astrolabe Reef, near Kadavu Island
Known for its labyrinth of underground tunnels and caves, this is one of the world’s longest barrier reef. Popular dive sites include Eagle Rock and Broken Stone.
Vatu-i-Ra Channel
The waters are best accessed via a liveaboard dive boat. The glorious E6 diving site is located at the centre of this channel. There’s a massive swim-through here called the Cathedral, passing through which is an enchanting experience.
Other snorkelling and scuba-diving spots include Manta Ray Island and Namena Marine Reserve.
What are the famous cruising destinations in Fiji? Which are the best cruising options available?
The Yasawa Islands cruise is the most famous cruising destination in Fiji. A reasonable three night Yasawa cruise will include a trip to a traditional Fijian Village and a visit to the Modriki Island. All meals and cruise activities are a lot of fun as you get to enjoy some of the delicious local dishes while there are Fijian songs played as the crew entertains the passengers.
Which are the best things to do for couples in Fiji?
Fiji, the beautiful archipelago, splashed with white lands, dotted by blue skies and embellished with emerald forests, spells romance with a clandestine charm. Some of the best things for couples to do on these islands are:
Exploring The Waters
There’s nothing more poetic than the abyssal waters. Enjoy a snorkelling trip together, diving through the turquoise pools into a magically vibrant world of fish, sea turtles, barracudas and what not. A picture right out of The Little Mermaid!
A Romantic Escape
Fiji is a collection of many islands, many of which remain undiscovered. Hop over to an untainted Fijian island and tell no one about your whereabouts. One such place is the Honeymoon Beach. A great way of spending some quality alone time with your sweetie.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
According to legend, a young Fijian chief fell in love with a girl from a different village. She had already been spoken for. The chief whisked her away and hid her in the caves but visited her daily, bringing her food, water, treasures from the sea and his company. Unearthing these caves hand in hand with your beloved, with such a fable playing through your head, is sure to make for an experience written straight out of a romance novel.
On A (Low) High
Take a low-flying tour of the islands and watch the beauty of Fiji from a comfortable height. Turtle Airways offers a thoroughly picturesque tour above the Yasawa Islands.
La Vie Douce
Taste the good life on the luxe Blue Lagoon Cruise with your significant other.
Where is the Bouma National Heritage park? What is so special about it?
The Bouma National Heritage Park is located on Taveuni Island.
It’s known for its self-sustaining ecosystem, rich in thick rainforests and a phenomenal variety of animal species. The park is a world by itself, offering tourist activities on a platter. It is home to Tavoro Waterfalls, with three sets of the falls maintained by the nearby Korovou Village. You can swim in the cool streams at the end of the cascades, with the water gushing down rocks. Bouma also boasts the Tagimaucia Lake, where the Tagimaucia flower blooms! Additionally, the de Voeux Peak here is known for its panoramic views. You can hike through the rainforest here and snorkel in the marine park at Waitabu.
Which are the best surfing beaches in Fiji?
- Cloudbreak, Mamanuca Islands, known for its angry waters curving at every end.
- Namotu Lefts, Namotu Island, a more forgiving surfing competitor and
- Desperations, beyond the Wilkes Pass are some of the best surfing experiences in Fiji.
Where can I do white water rafting and mangrove kayaking in Fiji?
River Navua presents an excellent stream for white-water rafting. Additionally, it is known as a kayaking destination, with swaying mangroves lining its surroundings.
Kadavu Island is known for kayaking. Kayaking here includes a host of other activities especially a trip to nearby villages.
How far is Bora Bora island from Fiji?
Bora Bora island is 3200 Km away from Fiji. It takes a 4 hour 30 minute flight to reach Bora Bora from here.
Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to Fiji.
- Fiji time is a casual way of referencing Fiji’s laidback attitude towards punctuality. Expect delays and postponements while you’re here.
- Fiji is postcard perfect and it is advisable to carry an SLR to capture its exotic beauty.
- The temperatures are usually high and it’s a warm country. Fiji doesn’t know the concept of winter and we suggest you carry clothes appropriate to the sultry weather.
- It’s sensible to book tickets well in advance because flights from India to Fiji are often unavailable and rather expensive.
- Tipping restaurant staff is not encouraged in Fiji.
- Do your research on the islands here. There are many that are off the beaten path that you might like to visit.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation to Fiji! The people here are very friendly and most of them seem to adore children!
