Fiji Travel Guide
Fiji is a collection of islands spanning over 1,600 kilometers in the South Pacific Ocean. There are two main islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, and nearly 900 smaller islands and inlets.
Settled thousands of years ago by Austronesian peoples, Europeans made landfall in 1643 when Dutch explorer Abel Tasman “discovered” the islands. Over 100 years later, British explorer James Cook arrived and by 1874 the islands were annexed and made into a Crown colony by the British. This lasted until 1970 when Fiji regained its independence.
Though famous for expensive bottled water and fancy resorts, a vacation here doesn’t need to break the bank. Inexpensive accommodation and food, combined with the fact most Pacific flights include a stopover here, makes the islands an affordable place to visit (I found Fiji way more affordable than I thought it would be when I first visited).
This travel guide to Fiji can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in this tropical paradise!
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Fiji
1. Explore the Mamanucas
The Mamanucas are a group of around 20 islands, popular with watersport enthusiasts keen to try jet skiing, kayaking, kiteboarding, SUP, and surfing. Most people visit on a day trip via high speed catamarans from Port Denarau or via water taxis and traditional sailing boats from Vuda Marina. Once here, they enjoy stops at deserted islands, as well as diving and snorkeling trips, exploring incredible marine life, soft coral gardens, shipwrecks and clear lagoons. I recommend staying overnight as these islands are at their most peaceful once the daytrippers have left!
2. Visit Suva
Situated on the island of Viti Levu, Suva is the capital of Fiji. Head to the municipal market between Thursday and Saturday to pick up souvenirs and inexpensive food, which becomes even cheaper later in the day. Stop by the peaceful Thurston Gardens to see its historical fig trees and colonial-era plant life as well as native tropical plants. Named after Fiji’s fifth Governor, Sir John Bates Thurston, they occupy the site where the original town was built and burned down in the 1840s. If you’re here in July or August, visit the Mariamma Temple to witness the fire-walking festival, a Hindu ritual that takes place during the full moon and started on Beqa Island 500 years ago. Fijians spend hours preparing the firepits and the fire-walking itself is an amazing spectacle, if you can bear to watch!
3. See the Fiji Museum
This museum detailing South Pacific culture and Fiji’s history is one of Suva’s best attractions. You’ll find Indian art exhibits, HMS Bounty relics, and artifacts that showcase traditional Fijian life, such as cannibal forks, shell jewelry, and tribal weaponry. A new exhibition called Voyages: Stories of an Ocean People tells the story of Fiji’s rich maritime history. It’s part of a research project and offers insight into native people’s longstanding relationship with the ocean. Open daily. The museum isn’t that large and only takes a few hours to see. Admission is 10 FJD.
4. Explore the Yasawas Islands
The Yasawa Islands are a pretty archipelago of 20 volcanic islands. They’re also where the 1960s film ‘The Blue Lagoon’ was mostly filmed and were closed to tourists until the late 1980s. These days, people live on these gorgeous islands and they’re popular with budget travelers for their inexpensive accommodation, cheap transportation, and late-night parties.’ Most of the islands here just have one resort and you can book it on the way as you hop between islands. If you’re looking to party, the best island for that is Beachcomer. If you’re traveling between the islands, Id also highly recommend buying the Bula Pass when you get here. It’s a hop-on-hop-off boat pass that allows you to explore the islands in 5, 7, 9 11 or 13 days.
5. Go diving
I learned to dive in Fiji and it was one of the most incredible things I’ve ever done. The visibility is fantastic, with depths of up to 40 meters (131 feet) and even though I was nervous to swim beside sharks at first, it’s one of the best things you can ever do. You can dive pretty much anywhere in the country. Famous dive spots include Astrolabe Reef, Beqa Lagoon, and Rainbow Reef. Expect to pay from 295 FJD per trip.
Other Things to See and Do in Fiji
1. Explore Bouma National Heritage Park
This national park, located on the north of Taveuni Island, is among the top attractions in the country. Taveuni is often nicknamed the ‘Garden Island’ and much of that is thanks to this serene and beautiful park where you’ll find the country’s legendary national flower, the Tagimaucia. The park is home to the island’s highest peak known as Uluinggalau Mountain and is covered in waterfalls plunging into deep pools perfect for swimming, with coastal forest trails ideal for hiking. The picturesque Tavoro Waterfalls are near the visitor center but if you want to do more strenuous trekking, do the Vidawa Rainforest Trail. It’s a half-day guided hike (you must take a tour) that ends at the waterfalls. It’s led by shamans who share the natural history of the park. It’s around 130 FJD for the tour, but if you just want to visit the park, there’s an entrance fee of around 30-40 FJD and an extra 40 FJD to visit the Vidawa Rainforest and 8 FJD to enter the Tavoro Falls. The Lavena Coastal Walk is 8 FJD without a tour guide.
2. Visit Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
This is another ideal place for hiking. You can climb up Castle Rock for a bird’s eye view over the Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands (it’s a challenging four-hour hike one-way). There’s also a two-hour hike that takes you past a giant waterfall and to the Navuratu village. There are six eco-friendly villages inside the park and the locals maintain the trails and the landscape (you can visit the villages). The fittest hikers can also take a separate guided tour to Mount Batilamu, from Abaca village, for views over the Nadi valley. It takes around three hours one-way. Admission to the park is 25 FJD.
3. Go whitewater rafting
For an adrenaline-packed day, go white-water rafting on the Upper Navua River. It winds through the highlands of Viti Levu, offering waterfalls and all grades of rapids that are perfect for beginners and seasoned pros. Many people combine whitewater rafting with kayaking along the rivers and mangroves. This trip is expensive at around 480 FJD per person, but it makes for a fun day trip and offers the chance to see hidden grottoes, amazing canyons and unspoilt rainforest home to fruit bats and native birdlife.
4. Visit the old capital of Levuka
Fiji’s original capital, Levuka (founded in 1820), is on the island of Ovalau. The small town, home to just 1,100 people, has largely escaped the influx of tourism and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its preservation as a late colonial Pacific port town (by the 1870s, it was the region’s most important trading post). There’s a small community museum, but other than that, there’s not much to do other than enjoy the quiet atmosphere, the architecture, and the surrounding scenic mountains.
5. Go surfing
Fiji offers some of the world’s best surfing with countless famous sites like Lighthouse Rights and the six-metre-high Cloudbreak, dubbed one of the top five waves in the world. The breaks here aren’t ideal for beginners, but there are calmer waters at Sigatoka.
Head to the Mamanuca islands for top waves like Wilkes, Tavarua Rights and Namotu Lefts, or try out windsurfing and kitesurfing as a bonus. Namotu Island is home to a popular surf spot called Swimming Pools and offers kitesurfing hire for about 680 FJD while Malolo Island Resort offers free windsurfing for staying guests. Expect to pay about 95 FJD for a three-hour surf lesson.
6. Visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant
Originally the garden of actor Raymond Burr (he starred in the TV shows Perry Mason and Ironside in the 1950s-70s), the Sleeping Giant covers over 50 acres of land and is filled with exotic plants and tropical flowers, including up to 40 different varieties of orchids. A jungle walk takes you past a huge lily pond and through native forest. It’s located at the base of Nadi’s Sabeto Mountains where one of the peaks resembles, you guessed it, a sleeping man. Admission is 18 FJD.
7. Try kava
Kava, which is made from a root with the same name, is the drink of choice in Fiji. Some people call it yaqona, or just ‘grog’, and it causes a numbing sensation on the lips and mouth and relaxes you. Make sure you go “high tide” and get the big cup! One of the best ways to experience kava is to participate in a village ceremony (it involves sitting on the floor and following some rituals as you drink). Some tours include this, but they’re usually full-day tours starting from about 300 FJD. If you’re on a budget, it’s best to just find some locals and drink with them!
8. Hike Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
This rainforest park is small, but offers a quiet retreat from Suva’s busy streets. Plus, it’s really easy to get to: just take the Sawani bus from Suva city bus station. When you visit, you’ll notice it brims with tropical plants like the Masiratu flower (which appears on the Fijian $5 note) and native birds who fill the forest with their birdsong. Pick up a bird guide at the visitor centre and tick off native bird species like the scarlet robin, golden whistler, sulphur-breasted musk parrot and maybe even the Fiji warbler, which lives in the undergrowth. Look up to spot the Fiji Goshawk – a bird you won’t find in any other country and There are about 7 kilometers (4 miles) of hiking trails leading to several natural pools on Waisila Creek that make refreshing swimming holes and a 5-kilometre natural trail has been built with signs that tell you about the native plants. Admission is 10 FJD per person and it’s open daily from 8am to 4.30pm.
9. Visit Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple
This is the largest Hindu temple in the Pacific and can be found at the base of Main Street in Nadi. You’ll see traditional Dravidian architecture here, with wooden carvings of deities from India as well as incredibly colorful ceiling paintings. Be sure to cover your knees and shoulders and leave your shoes at the door. There’s the option for guided tours inside. Admission is 5 FJD.
6. Visit Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park
Located on Viti Levu, this was Fiji’s first national park. Many people refer to the sand dunes here as one of the country’s top natural wonders. They have historical importance too, as many artefacts such as pottery and primitive tools have been found here – some are now on display at the Fiji Museum. As 2,600-year-old human remains were excavated here, it’s also believed it was once part of a burial site. Entrance to the park is 10 FJD and if you’re feeling fit, pick up a map from the visitor center and take the one-hour or two-hour trek around the dunes. There’s also the option of taking a guide. Access to the dunes is sign-posted from Queens Road, just before you reach Sigatoka town.
7. Take a river safari
At nearly 75 miles (120km) long, the Sigatoka River is Fiji’s largest waterway and it wends its way from Mount Victoria to the Pacific Ocean, opposite Sigatoka’s dunes. Book a half day eco-excursion with Sigatoka River Safari and a high-speed jet boat will whisk you along its waters, past rainforest-covered peaks and traditional villages. Guides fill you in on the island’s culture, including its historical cannibal traditions and the boat stops by local communities. You can visit a traditional Chief’s bure (house), try local food and learn some traditional Fijian dancing. Prices start from 299 FJD so it’s not cheap but is one of the best ways to see Fiji’s rainforest-filled interior.
How to Stay Safe in Fiji
Fiji is relatively safe. This is a relaxed island nation with little to worry about while you’re here. Like any destination, your biggest concern is opportunistic and petty crime like pickpocketing. With that in mind, leave your valuables at home and keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while at the beach and in busy areas. Credit card fraud and ATM card skimming also occurs here, so be extra cautious when using ATMs and check your bank account regularly.
Occasionally there may be street rallies and protests which could turn violent so steer clear of these and keep up to date with local political news where possible.
Men are often approached by locals trying to sell sex workers or marijuana. Both are illegal, so politely decline and walk away.
Solo female travelers should feel safe here (I’ve met a lot while visiting here), though take the standard precautions while you’re here (don’t leave your drink unattended when out at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night if intoxicated, etc.) Check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web for more specific information.
Cyclone season in the Pacific runs from October to May, so keep an eye on the forecast and make alternative travel plans if necessary. Make sure you have travel insurance if you visit during this time.
Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams here.
If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.
Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:
Where to Stay in Fiji
There are lots of budget accommodations in Fiji. All the islands are different and there are so many islands that I can’t list everything here. As long as you don’t stay at the resorts, you’ll find something affordable! Here are my recommended places to stay in Fiji:
- The Beachouse (Coral Coast)
- Barefoot Manta Island (Yasawa Islands)
- Barefoot Kuata Island (Yasawa Islands)
- Smugglers Cove Beach Resort (Nadi)
- Bamboo Beach (Nadi)
Fiji Travel Costs
Activities – Most museums and attractions cost 10-20 FJD. Diving trips cost 295 FJD while white-water rafting is around 480 FJD for a day trip. Surf lessons cost around 200 FJD. Village tours (including kava ceremonies) cost around 370 FJD.
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – 35-55 FJD per night
- Hostel private rooms – 85-125 FJD per night
- Budget hotels – start at 135 FJD per night
- Homestays – start at 20 FJD per night
- Airbnb private rooms – 48-85 FJD per night
- Airbnb apartments – 170-290 FJD per night
Food
- Street food – 5-10 FJD
- Buffets – 65-85 FJD
- Sit-down restaurants – 40-55 FJD
- High-end dining – 65-80 FJD per person
- Four-course meal – 200-300 FJD
- Beer – 6.50 FJD
- Groceries for a week – 65-110 FJD
Fiji Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – 105 FJD Per Day
This budget covers a hostel dorm, using public transportation to get around, cooking your meals and eating some street food. You’ll need to limit your drinking and do mostly free and cheap activities like hiking and swimming.
Midrange – 220 FJD Per Day
A mid-range budget covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most meals, enjoying a few drinks, and taking the occasional taxi to get around. This leaves room to enjoy some paid activities (diving, museums visits).
Upscale – 470 FJD Per Day
On this budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, island-hop, rent a car, and do all the tours and activities you want.
Fiji Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
If you stick to free and cheap things to do in Fiji (like hiking and going to the beach), you can visit for very little money without missing out on much. For everything else, here are some ways to save money in Fiji:
- Use “share taxis” – As the name suggests, these taxis pick up as many passengers as possible and charge the same as a bus fare, which is a good option for longer journeys.
- Eat at snack stands – The cheapest food in Fiji is found on the snack stands dotting the roads. You can pick up curry or fish and chips for as little as 3 FJD.
- BYO Everything – If you are going to the outer islands, bring as much as possible. Things are about 50% cheaper on the main island so save money and buy water, snacks, and alcohol ahead of time.
- Book a driver – If you can round up a few people, hire a driver for a full day. It should cost about 100 FJD if you haggle, and it’s a LOT cheaper than taking taxis everywhere or getting a rental car (if you’re short on time and do not want to use public transportation everywhere).
- Pack a water bottle – The tap water on the main islands is generally safe to drink, though I would bring a waterbottle with a filter just in case. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw. It ensures your water is clean and safe while helping you avoid single-use plastic.
- Use public transport – Although taxis are pretty reasonable, consider taking a local bus on the main islands. There are two types: the local bus, which has open windows and will take you between major towns and cities, and the express bus, which is more like a coach (and normally has air-conditioning) and runs between Nadi and Suva. Make sure you have local cash for your fare – most people just buy their ticket when boarding.
How to Get Around in Fiji
Bus – Buses are efficient and inexpensive in Fiji, with bus services provided by Coral Sun, Sunbeam, and Pacific Transport. The 4-hour journey from Suva to Nadi on the main island costs between 7-20 FJD, depending on the date and time. A bus between Suva and Naviti costs about the same.
On the smaller islands, you can show up at a bus stop and flag down a bus. Any journey shouldn’t cost more than a few dollars. Mini-buses and converted trucks are abundant!
Ferry – Ferries run between the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, Ovalau and Kadavu, and Vanua Levu and Tavaeuni. Each island has many different routes, often with multiple journeys each day. Fares start from about 16 FJD.
Some of the main ferries are:
- Bligh Water Shipping
- Goundar Shipping
- Patterson Brothers Shipping
Not many services go to the Outer Islands, and the boats that do are slow and unreliable. Some islands only receive a ferry arrival once a month! Goundar Shipping visits Vanuabalavu, Cicia, and Rotuma, but you’ll have to call ahead to check the schedule.
Additionally, you can get an inter-island ferry pass (called a Bula Pass) for the Yasawa Islands that costs around 458 FJD for five days. Longer passes are also available:
- 7-8 days for 603 FJD
- 9-10 days for 696 FJD
- 11 days for 773 FJD
- 13 days for 824 FJD
- 15 days for 870 FJD
Note that the ferry pass company prices their passes in USD so these currency conversions will fluctuate.
Flying – To get between islands, the easiest way is to fly. Flights are surprisingly cheap too. A 30-minute flight between Nadi and Suva costs as little as 140 FJD. Suva to Koro Island is about 190 FJD and takes 35 minutes. Nadi to Cicia Island is about 325 FJD and takes nearly four hours.
Taxis – A taxi around Suva costs around 10 FJD. Outside of Suva, taxis tend to be unmetered, and you should negotiate your fare before you get in.
Car Rental – Renting a car is not cheap, costing around 120 FJD per day for a multi-day rental. Unless you are splitting it with friends, I’d skip the rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years of age.
Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking here is relatively easy and safe, though rides are only really common near the larger towns and cities. Expect long waits the further away from the capital you travel. For more tips and info, check out Hitchwiki.
When to Go to Fiji
Fiji has more than one peak season and is considered a year-round destination. Even though November to April is monsoon season here, December and January are very busy as Australians and Kiwis flock to the islands during their school holidays. July is another popular time to visit for great temperatures, but expect higher prices for accommodations. In December, the average daily high is 31°C (88°F), while it’s around 28°C (82°F) in July.
The low season is in November and then February-April. Both periods occur during Fiji’s wet season, with lots of rain and high humidity. It can be uncomfortable, but prices tend to be lower.
I recommend hitting up Fiji during the shoulder season, from May-June or August-October. The temperatures are still warm, there’s less rainfall, and there’s a low risk of cyclones (October-May is cyclone season in the Pacific). It’s still hot during this time, with the average daily temperature in May being 29°C (84°F)!
Fiji Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
- Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
- Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
- Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
Fiji Travel Guide: Related Articles
Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Fiji travel and continue planning your trip:
