Fiji Travel Guide

Fiji Guide: A List of Must Do Things in Fiji!

Exquisite beaches, enthralling culture, and opulent interiors – Fiji is undoubtedly a paradise on earth. You shouldn’t rush when you visit Fiji.

The appeal of this island country lures visitors from all over the globe. The endless stretches of coloured reefs and the captivating underwater world make it a mecca for snorkelers and seasoned divers.

It is a haven for birdwatchers, forest fanciers and hikers too. The nightlife scene is pretty amazing too.

Get a taste of Fijian life and experience the warmth of their hospitality in this handy Fiji guide where we’ve covered everything you possibly need.

You would be amazed to learn there is so much to explore on this tiny paradise on earth!

When we went to Fiji on our Honeymoon in addition to New Zealand, it was kind of last minute.
We dropped all the other places from the North Island of New Zealand, apart from Rotorua, and dedicated these days to Fiji. 

How to reach Fiji? 

Fiji is an ideal vacation destination. The lovely weather, world-class resorts, and beaches attract travellers from all across the world to this tiny island of the South Pacific. It can be a tad bit difficult to reach because of its geographical location.
You can take a direct flight if airlines are operating from your country to Fiji. 

The main Fijian airport is called the Nadi International Airport. Qantas Airways, Air Pacific and Air New Zealand operate regular flights to the Fiji airport.

You can reach Fiji in 3hours if you take a flight from New Zealand. Virgin Australia and Fiji Airways operate affordable and easy flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Singapore.

Fiji also has direct flights to other Oceanian countries like Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, Tonga and a daily direct flight from Los Angeles (LAX).

Shuttle transfers and taxis are available from the airport to the resorts.  

Best Season to visit Fiji 

Fiji is a wonderful place to visit all year round. The best time to visit this place is based on your personal preference. If you hate crowded places, then you can try visiting in the off-peak season. The region is usually crowded during July and August months.

This is when families from New Zealand and Australia choose to come here on vacation with their children. The resorts are filled with families during the holiday season. The islands are quieter during the off-peak season, and you can grab some amazing deals as well during the period. If you are looking forward to a relaxing and peaceful holiday, then it is best to visit in the offseason. 

Looking for a guide for a more luxurious visit to Fiji? 

As Fiji is a tropical destination, the weather remains mild and pleasant throughout the year. However, you may encounter dry and wet seasonal variations. High temperatures increase humidity levels.

The island nation remains warm from May to September. This is when you can enjoy activities such as sunbathing and swimming in the pristine waters.
Late October to early November is also a great time as the place is less crowded.   

Also Read: Amazing Facts about New Zealand, Fiji’s neighbouring country.

About Fiji Geography & Culture 

Fiji is a delight to nature lovers. The islands in the country promise a tranquil environment that is unspoiled and unique. It comprises of 333 islands that seem to be in a horseshoe configuration.

Viti Levu is the largest island in Fiji, which is also the home to Suva, the capital city. Most of the islands in Fiji are volcanic, but none of them are currently active. The islands are mainly mountainous and covered with tropical forests. 

There are also numerous waterfalls and streams in the country. The most famous is the Tavoro Waterfalls (also called Bouma Falls) where the movie ‘Return to the Blue Lagoon’ was actually filmed!

The archipelago is surrounded by shallow lagoons and by a coral reef. The rich cultural heritage of this island country comprises of diverse elements that represent the life of the indigenous people. 

The population of the country mainly comprises of South Pacific Islanders, Europeans, Chinese, Indians, and Fijians. The place still remains untouched by the outside world. The traditional culture still remains intact, and Fijians have managed to preserve their customs and old lifestyle.
Many people still dress in traditional garb and Fijians are famous for their friendliness.    

The Fijian culture is based on indigenous traditions with some European and Indian influences. There is a strong cultural link with India as 38 percent of the population in this island country is of Indian descent. Indo Fijians settled on the island from the 1920s to the 1930s.
The community has built many temples, and they celebrate major Hindu festivals. The influence reflects the architectural style of various buildings. It will be evident once you explore this tiny group of islands.  

Best Scuba Dive Sites in Fiji

Scuba diving is on the bucket list of various divers visiting Fiji. There is a multitude of islands to explore all promising varied diving sites, great visibility, and warm water to enjoy. The many diving sites in the country are simply perfect for divers of any experience level and age.
The major diving season in Fiji is from April to October. However, it is possible to scuba dive year-round. The visibility is the best during the winter. 

Here are some top scuba dive sites in Fiji –

• Rainbow Reef 

If you ask the visitors their best diving site in Fiji, you will find the Rainbow Reef site in the top three recommendations. This site is situated between the Vanua Levu and Taveuni Island group.
It hasn’t been named rainbow reef for no reason. This reef comprises of coloured layers of plated, hard, and soft corals which lead to an explosion of mind-bending colours!

This reef is a true south pacific paradise for divers. Do not miss exploring the species of tuna, barracuda, manta rays, and reef shark in the rainbow reef.    

• Shark Reef Marine Reserve 

This is one of the top shark dives in the world. You can spot tiger sharks, tawny nurse sharks, blacktip reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and bull sharks in this marine reserve.  

• Barefoot Manta Island 

The Yasawa Islands have fewer dive boats and tourists in comparison to other regions in Fiji. This is the reason why the coral garden and the reefs are pristine here.

Although there are plenty of dive sites in Barefoot, the prime attraction is the Barefoot Manta Island. The Manta Rays frequent this channel to feed. Snorkelling Safaris are also available at this dive site.  

• Bligh water

What makes Bligh Water special is that it is home to numerous reefs and offers over 25 dive sites. The divers can spot grey reef sharks and hammerheads in the region along with schools of manta rays, eagle rays, and trevally.
There is a multitude of reef fish species, including the fusiliers and leaf scorpionfish.   

• Bega Lagoon

This is one of the most popular dive sites in Fiji. The Bega Lagoon dive site is not for the faint-hearted as you can spot up to seven shark species here including the tiger, bull, black and white-tipped sharks. This lagoon is a shark haven.

It is the ending of several rivers flowing from the main Viti Levu island collection. It is no wonder why Bega Island is referred to as the “Mecca of Pacific Diving”.   

 

Top 5 Hikes To Do in Fiji

Although Fiji is associated with beaches, you would be amazed to learn that it is home to some incredible hiking routes. You need to get high up if you want to relish picturesque views of the islands. Here are 5 popular hiking sites in Fiji. 

• Mount Tomanivi

Known originally as Mount Victoria, Mount Tomanivi is the highest mountain in Fiji. It stands tall at 1,232 meters. On a clear day, it would take six hours on an average to climb to the summit.

As you reach the top, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of the Yasawa Island group. The hike route has been categorized as difficult owing to the steep terrain.

The best time to hike here is during the cooler and drier months.   

• Mount Batilamu 

Popular as the Sleeping Giant, Mount Batilamu is a part of the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park near Viti Levu. It would take you five hours to reach the top and return.

There are shorter hikes through the park. You can expect some wind through the forests, swimming holes, and waterfalls while hiking in the region.

The mountain offers majestic views of the Yasawa Island group and the Mamanuca. If you want to get a taste of local culture, then you can consider staying with a family in the Abaca village.      

• Sigatoka Sand Dunes 

The Sigatoka Sand Dunes are considered to be the most important archaeological sites in Fiji. It is at this place, excavations revealed potsherds from the early Lapita people.

Human remains have also been found on the site. Most of the items uncovered from the region can be found at the Fiji Museum in Suva. The dunes are 60 meters tall and span over 600 hectares! You can be a part of a one-hour to two-hour hike through the dunes.    

• Tavoro/Bouma Falls 

The Bouma National Heritage Park is situated on Taveuni which is the third-largest island of Fiji. This allows you to take jungle hikes and guides you through some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country.

The hike takes three hours. You can encounter the first waterfall within 10 minutes of hiking. The hike then gets a little difficult from there onward; however, the views are worth the effort.
You can enjoy pristine views of Qamea, Laucala, and Matangi islands. Other waterfalls encountered during the hike are smaller in size but are more peaceful and secluded.      

• Lavena Coastal Walk 

This hike is part of Bouma National Heritage Park in Taveuni. This hike takes you through the stunning coastal line of the nation. There are a few spots where you can rest and swim.
You will explore white to black sand beaches and will also cross beautiful rainforests. You will have to spend half a day to cover this hike.    

Recommendations for Accommodation in Fiji.

Fiji is home to some luxury resorts that offer unrivalled hospitality and experiences. Here are some popular and luxurious stays in the island country that you can consider for your next adventure. 

• Fiji Marriott

The Fiji Marriott Resort is an international luxury hotel situated in Momi Bay. It offers mesmerizing views of the ocean and the lagoon. The guest rooms are overwater villas offering a serene setting.

This resort includes private white-sand beach access, 3 large swimming pools, and 4 dining options. This luxury resort is located 36 km from Nadi Airport.  

• Paradise Cove Resort, Taveuni

The Paradise Cove Resort boasts of a waterfront location and features a private beach spanning 200m. The entire resort is surrounded by a beautiful garden landscape.

This property is located on Naukacuvu Island in the Yasawa Island group. You can reach this resort either in a seaplane or through boat service. The villas are spacious and feature warm colours.

The décor reflects the idyllic lifestyle of the region. The guests can use kayaks for free. The tour desk assists the guests with booking day tours, fishing trips, and diving cruises. The on-site restaurants serve both international and local cuisines.       

• Treasure Island Resort, Mamanuca

This resort is located on a private island and rents out renovated traditional bungalow. Each bungalow comes with a hammock and a private balcony. It includes a bar and six dining outlets.

The guests can spend their time relaxing at the day spa or swim at the 3-tiered swimming pool. The resort is located to the west of Nadi within the Mamanuca Island group.

You can reach this place by either taking a boat from Denarau or by taking a helicopter from Nadi International Airport. The rooms are surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offer panoramic views of the ocean. The guests can use snorkelling equipment, tennis court and games room for free.  

• Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa

The Hilton Fiji Beach Resort boasts of a private beach that stretches to 2.5km. This resort offers spacious rooms and features 9 swimming pools and a day spay.

This beach resort can be reached in 12 minutes’ drive from Nadi city. The complex includes beachfront restaurants offering all-day dining, a deck, and a bar. All the rooms are luxurious and offer gorgeous ocean views.  

• Six Senses Fiji 

This resort offers a private beach area, a garden, and shared lounge access. You can rent free bikes from the resort to explore the surroundings.

The rooms are spacious, and the accommodation offers a terrace. You can indulge in activities such as canoeing, cycling, and snorkelling in the surroundings.   

I hope you liked these recommendations. Feel free to ask more questions in the comments below.