Fiji is paradise. It is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world with spectacular islands, pristine beaches and very friendly and welcoming people.
There is though a lot more to Fiji than white sandy beaches and palm trees. It’s also a thrill-seekers paradise with jet-boating, white-water rafting, trekking and much, much more available!
I went to Fiji on a wing and a prayer! I booked it a couple of days before and all I was expecting were desert islands, excellent snorkeling and blue skies. And even though I was right about all of these things, if I’d have known what else was on offer I would have been more prepared, and I may have had a more exciting experience.
View my tips for going travelling and backpacking and plan an amazing trip to Fiji today.
Fiji Travel Booking Resources
These are my favourite companies to use when I travel:
• Search cheap flights with Skyscanner.
• Find the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
• Get reliable travel insurance through World Nomads.
• Book sightseeing tours & attraction tickets on GetYourGuide or Viator.
• Browse small group adventure tours with G Adventures or Contiki.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Fiji
It’s Fiji. Any time is the best time! Want more? Fine. April/May and October/November mean cooler nights and pleasant water temperatures. Cyclone season is November through to April but it can rain at any time, just like anywhere. If you’re heading to Fiji for diving or surfing you want the winter months – they have the biggest breaks and the best visibility. Diving is incredible throughout the year but the water is clearer in the winter (June to September). Summer is ideal for those who want warmer water and less surf. If you’re heading to Fiji to see the manta rays, May to October is your best bet.
Getting to Fiji
As the hub of the South Pacific, Nadi International Airport is the focal point of flights from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Pacific Islands, United States, Great Britain and Europe via eastern or western routes. Airlines that service Fiji include Air Pacific, Air New Zealand, Qantas and Korean Air. Around Fiji, buses run virtually everywhere.
Getting Around Fiji
Driving
Tourists can drive if in possession of a valid home country driving license for the same class of vehicle. The maximum speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h (30 m.p.h.) and on the highways it is 80 km/h (50 m.p.h.). Driving is on the left side of the road. Rental cars are available at international airports and major resorts, and are easily arranged from all hotels and motels. Rental cars are also available in Vanua Levu and some outer islands by arrangement.
Ferry
There are regular ferry services scheduled between the major island. If you have the time and a taste for adventure, you’ll find voyaging scenic and exciting, a taste of true island travel. While Fiji has many luxurious cruise ships, inter-island vessels carry freight as well as passengers. Deck passage is the usual way to go, with a few cabins available on some of the ships on a first-come, first-served basis.
Buses and Public Transportation
BusThere are numerous modern, air-conditioned coaches serving resorts and major towns. However, many visitors like the adventure of using the local open-windowed buses so they can take in the sights and sounds of the passing scene. Canvas flaps are unfurled in the event of a rain shower. Local buses also allow the visitor a chance to mingle with the people of Fiji, who by choice and tradition, treat strangers with gracious hospitality. Every town and village has a bus stop, since this is still the most common form of transportation in the islands. You can also hail any public bus from the road side merely by waving to the driver.
Carriers
Carriers are usually multi-passenger vans and small trucks which service remote villages and less-travelled areas. Rates are lower then those of taxis, in many areas matching bus fares, but this form of travel is only for those who don’t mind roughing it.
Taxi
Most people in Fiji do not own a car, so taxis are plentiful and fares are reasonable. For instance, FJ$3 will take you just about anywhere in the average town or city. Urban taxis have meters, with a flag at $1.00 and $1.50 after 10.00pm. But you will find smaller towns and rural area taxis use a fixed price system and almost everyone can tell you the price to local destinations. For long trips, bargain with the driver. Often he’ll reduce the fare if you allow him to pick up other passengers going the same way. Some taxis can also be hired by the day or half day for a fixed price, often the equivalent of a rental car.
Best Islands to Visit in Fiji
It really depends what you’re after! Here’s a quick run down:
Very close to Vitu Levu
Lots of water sports and party islands (Beachcomber is here), so head over if you’re after good weather, great beaches and not a lot of cultural experiences.
The Yasawas
Quieter than the Mamanucas and great for diving and snorkeling. Your quintessential Fijian islands.
Vanua Levu
Home to high waterfall strewn peaks with a mix of resorts and traditional villages. If you’re a keen diver head to Namena Marine Reserve.
Taveuni
Full of tropical flowers and waterfalls. The ideal location for a hike.
Non-Touristy Islands to Visit in Fiji
If you really want to head far away into the middle of nowhere, the Lau and Moala groups are pretty much untouched by tourists.
What Can I Expect When On The Smaller Islands?
There aren’t any cash points the small islands so you need to take your money out in Nadi before you get to them. It’s recommended to buy your alcohol either at the airport when you arrive or in Nadi as the island alcohol can be over-priced (check that the place you’re staying doesn’t mind you bringing your own).
When you arrive at the small islands the water is often too shallow for the Island Hopper to pull up, so your bags and you will be transferred to a smaller boat and motored ashore. You’ll usually be greeted by the locals playing traditional Fijian music, be given a welcome drink and told about important timings and information about the Island. And then? Left to do your own thing.
The locals are so friendly it’s almost impossible for you to have bad experience – as long as you fully understand Fiji time and let yourself go with the flow.
Best Things to Do in Fiji
Fiji has a wide variety of activities, both on land and sea to interest and excite backpackers. Check out my top amazing experiences in Fiji:
Chill Out on the Beach
Island life, beautiful beaches, warm water and a slow pace of life (if you so choose!). With no-one to tell you otherwise relax to the max with only the sun, sea and soulmates for company. And with all our amazing accommodation options you’ll be spoilt for choice. Decisions decisions!
Party on Beachcomber Island
So you’re in Fijian paradise & you’re with a whole load of fun folk. So what do you do? PARTY! Drink cocktails all night long, dance to music under the stars and make life long friends with your fellow travelling buddies. Your accommodation will be in staggering distance of the beach bar – perfect!
Sail the Fijian Islands
Board a boat and sail into happy oblivion around the epic Yasawas and Mamucas islands. Hop sun-kissed islands, bask on remote beaches, cruise, sail, kayak, party & relax in bustling resorts or secluded hideaways.
Lap Up the Local Fijian Fun
Get involved with the local community and take part in a kava ceremony. Learn how to weave and visit a friendly mountain village. Fijians are very welcoming people – as displayed by their continual warm hospitality and smiling faces. Don a traditional sexy sulu (skirt) – yes even the boys!
Swim and Snorkel
With some of the best snorkelling around you’d be a fool not to embrace the warm waters, hunt out some amazing coral, swim with manta rays (when in season) and marvel at the beautiful colours of the underwater world. Dive down deeper and discover a whole hidden universe.
Scuba Diving
Numerous professional accredited Dive Operations providing courses, instruction, training and supervised great diving.
Hiking and Trekking
Available on all the high Islands. Most important hikes are the two-day Sigatoka River trek, all day climb to Lake Tagimacia on Taveuni and near Nadi the famous Mount Batilamu trek. For outer island hiking you can walk around Nananu-I-RA in one day, picturesque and beautiful experience.
Surfing
A number of surfing camps are off southern and western Viti Levu. Thirty minutes by speed boat from Nadi are great reef surfing spots. Other surfing areas are at Waidroka Bay, Coral Coast, Yanuca and Kadavu Islands. There is surf throughout the year with the best waves from March to October.
Cultural River Cruises
Daytime excursion cruising from Sigatoka jetty upriver visiting a traditional Fijian village, kava welcoming ceremony and pottery making demonstration, then head downriver to Sigatoka Sand Dunes to a historic village of original Fijian ancestors, love feast and shopping for Fijian crafts.
Coral Coast Railway Co
Evening sugar train ride with cocktails and Fijian serenades. At Sigatoka meet Fijian warriors who will escort you to Nayawa Village for yaqona (kava) welcoming ceremony, village tour. lovo feast, meke dancer and demonstrations in herbal medicine.
Garden of the Sleeping Giant
Picnic or stroll through the private orchid collections of late American actor, Raymond Burr. Experience acres of magnificent flora at the base of Sabeto Mountains with a guide or on your own. Then head for the legendary Viseisei Village, where original Fijian are said to have landed 3,500 years ago.
Island Cruises
Day of half day cruises available from Nadi area to Mana, Plantation, Beachcomber, Castaway Island or a combination of these islands in the Mamanuca group. Choose our mood of transport – Catamaran, Schooner, motor-sailor or Ketch! Once you’ve landed, each island offers water sports, entertainment and dining.
Fiji Museum at Thurston Gardens (Suva)
World’s largest collection of Fijian artifacts as well as actual relics from H.M.S Bounty!
Rainforests
Fiji’s rainforests are unique in that they have no harmful animals or insects. Here one can enjoy serene contemplation of nature in complete safety. Because of the mountainous nature of the islands, there are numerous streams and waterfalls, often with a cool pond in a rocky basin beneath the falls. One of the most famous is sacred Bouma Falls on the Islands of Taveuni, seen by the world in the motion picture “Return to the Blue Lagoon”. Here you will also find a natural waterslide. Also a must to visit is the Raintree forest at Colo-I-Suva twenty minutes from Suva, Fiji’s capital. Specially prepared for tourists – it is a fabulous experience. Fiji has no leeches or crocodiles, and wild streams and brooks are crystal clear and unpolluted.
Skydiving
Skydive over Fiji’s spectacular islands and reefs. A beautiful scenic flight over the islands, the exhiliarating freefall for up to 60 seconds followed by about six minutes of serene flying under the parachute where your instructor will show you how to steer your parachute before landing on or beside the beach. There are options to land on pristine coral islands and for having your ultimate experience filmed. Local companies offer tandem skydives or intergrated ‘Accelerated Freefall’ courses with highly experienced international instructors.
Eat Fresh Fish Everyday!
The beauty of Fiji and its islands is that most of its products are all home grown or fished. That to you my friend means coconuts on the beach, fresh lobster (if you’re feeling flashy) in the evening and as many bananas as you can shake a stick at. Healthy and delicious – it can’t be wrong!
Fiji Travel Tips
Check out my top tips for visiting Fiji and start getting prepared for a really amazing trip.
Tourist Visas
When you arrive in Fiji, you are given a visitors card to fill out on the airplane which validates a four month stay for citizens of most countries (Tourist VISA). This visa can be extended for up to two months for a fee of around $60 FJD through the Immigration Department in Suva. For more information check out this link to the Fiji Customs web site www.customs.gov.fj/site/arrivals_guide.html
Money
The Fijian Dollar is worth 100 cents and coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 along with a $1 coin. The bills are in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $20, $50. Use the currency converter to change your local currency into Fijian dollars. There are bank machines in Suva, Nadi and Sigatoka however some debit cards do not work at selected banks. Try a few such as the Westpac and ANZ. Traveller’s Cheques are always a good bet when travelling and credit cards are widely accepted on the mainland. Be aware that some islands and remote resorts do not have credit card capabilities and require cash transactions only. Check with your hostel receptions.
Travel Insurance
It is recommended you purchase adequate travel insurance prior to departing. Consult with your travel agency or local insurance company for the best options for you. Basic healthcare is inexpensive and prescription drugs such as antibiotics are readily available and reasonably priced. Alert* Many travel insurance policies have a section of exclusions that may includes scuba diving or other “extreme sports”, read the fine print!
Language
English is the official language, but most local people still speak Fijian which is preserved and widely spoken in many different dialects. I recommend trying to learn some basic words and phrases, the locals will be happy to see you picked up some of their language.
What to Expect When You Arrive In Nadi
When you arrive at the airport you’ll probably have booked a transfer, but remember, Fiji time means that it may not be super prompt! If not, buy some drink, get your money out and it’ll be there soon(ish). The ride through Nadi to your hotel/hostel will be bumpy, uncertain and unexpected. You’ll see a side to Fiji you may not have expected but it’s a good eye opener. You’ll arrive at your hostel to friendly staff, camp fires and freshly cooked food – exactly what you want when you’ve just got off a plane.
What Is There To Do On Vitu Levu?
Nadi is on the western side of the biggest island in Fiji, Vitu Levu. Though some see it as no more than a stop off before boarding the Island Hopper boat, there’s actually a whole load of activities and sites here. If you have the time, check out a hop on hop off bus around the island and explore a side of Fji rarely seen by tourists.
What Are The Best Island Hopping Routes?
If you’re not in Fiji for long, choose two or three islands so you can still see some sites but have time to relax. A popular route for those who only have five days or so is the Beachcomber to Mantaray Island route. Beachcomber is the tropical party island (best on weekends), where everyone heads to bury their feet in the sand at the beach bar, whereas Mantaray has some of the best diving and snorkeling out there. If you have a bit more time you can do as many or as few of the islands as you wish! Grab a Bula Pass and you’ve got a return journey to Port Denarau and an island hop a day.
What’s The Food Like?
The food you can expect is nothing short of amazing. Fresh fruit, meat and fish is just the beginning. Fijians typically eat lots of carbs such as rice, sweet potatoes, taro and cassava, so expect a lot of this. You’ll see some underground cooking methods (convenient and delicious) and enjoy lots of fresh fish dishes such as Kokoda ( a bit like Ceviche).
Can I Drink the Water?
Generally water is safe to drink in most resorts and towns. Again check with your accommodation. Some travellers have had problems in the past so if you are the least bit skeptical, boil your water first or buy it.
Kava Not Cava
The Fijians love it, it’s their national drink, so the chances are you’ll be invited to sample it at some point during your stay. Kava is a native plant known for its ‘relaxation effect’ (try it and you’ll understand). The drink itself is made from the crushed root mixed with water which results in a muddy looking liquid with a slightly bitter taste (sounds appealing doesn’t it!). If you’re drinking Kava you’ll most likely also experience the Kava Ceremony, where you’ll sit cross legged in a circle in front of the chief/head of ceremonies. The drink is passed around in half a coconut and you can ask for high tide (full to the brim) or low tide (just a sip).
Cover Shoulders, Arms and Legs
If you’re heading to Fiji, you might automatically think beach attire, but shorts, bikinis, strappy tops and mini-skirts should all be strictly reserved for the sand. Fijians have strong conservative values and Christian morals play an important role in everyday life. Women will be forbidden from entering local villages for a craft fairs or cava drinking ceremonies unless their arms, legs and shoulders are covered and men too must make sure they cover their knees.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in Fiji and even if you offer a tip many people will not except. It is humbling to know that at present Fijian minimum wage is $12.00 FJD per day!!!
Taxi Tips
When taking a taxi always bargain the price prior to leaving and make sure that you sort out whether this is a return or one way affair. There have been a few cases where taxi drivers will indicate the one way fare and then demand more money to pay for his expenses in getting back to his origin. A simple solution is to insure that the taxi driver puts his taxi meter on. Often taxis will pick people up for a reduced rate on the way back to their home base after dropping off a client. Most taxis will initially offer tourist prices. It is best to ask the resort/hostel as to the local fare structure.
Laundry
Laundry service is offered at most accommodation for a resonable charge. Be aware that not all people do the laundry as you like and speciality items should be done yourself. Many places line dry and your laundry make come back a little stiff. In Suva city, laundry is quite expensive. Sometimes, local Fijians who are keen to make some money will do it for you in their village.
Do’s and Don’ts when Travelling in Fiji
In Fiji, there are many codes and rituals that are sill practised on a day to day basis. In visiting Fiji, it is helpful to be aware of some of these traditions in order to be respectful to the locals particularly when visiting a village or being introduced to a chief.
Here is a list of some things to keep on the top of your mind when experiencing Fijian culture.
Do’s and Don’ts in and out of the village:
Do not show up to a village uninvited
Do bring a sevusevu (yaqona or waka root offering) to present to the chief upon arrival as this is the traditional way of saying thank-you
Do accept invitations to dine with villagers
Do leave your shoes outside when entering the bures
Do not question the chiefs authority or push Fijians to discuss politics
Do not wear hats or caps in the village (wear sunscreen!)
Do take your sunglasses off when being introduced to others
Do not camp outside a bure if you have been offered a place to sleep as it can embarrass your hosts
Do contribute to food costs if staying in a village
Do respect that Sundays are a day of rest in Fiji
Do ask permission before taking photos of people and DO consider sending the person you took the photo of a copy
Do not be too free in you PDA’s (Public Displays of Affection) as this could offend the locals
Do not sunbathe topless or in skimpy attire when outside of the tourist zones
Do wear long skirts, pants and shirts that cover your shoulders when integrating into the Fijian lifestyle
Do not walk into the village with something slung over your shoulders, always carry items in your hands
Do not touch a Fijians head or hair, it is the most sacred part of the body
Do not purposeful eat turtle meat as it is illegal
Do not eat meat the same day you visit a religious Indian Hindi temple
Do support local Fijian economy and chose tours, resorts and services that are culturally and environmentally sensitive
What to Pack
The weather is quite stable so pack for the tropics which means LIGHT! Most forgotten items can be purchased in Fiji from major town centres but it may be an alternative brand that you haven’t heard of. So if you have a favourite hair product that you are low on, buy one prior to leaving home.
Here are some suggestions:
• Mosquito repellant containing deet as its active ingredient
• Sunscreen 30 + (the Fijian sun is always hotter than you think…)
• Pad-Lock with two keys
• Flipflops and comfortable trainers if you are planning on trekking
• First aid kit
• Sunglasses
• Light cotton clothing is most comfortable in the tropics, easy to wash and dries quickly
• One warm shirt for cool nights in the highlands
• Long pants to avoid mosquito bits
• Sun hat
• Raincoat
• Respectable clothing (long skirt or shorts, pants, short sleeve top) when in non touristy areas and village visits
• Spare contact lenses or prescription
• Small towel
• Small day pack
• Toiletry items
• Zip lock bags
• Online backups of your passport & other VIP documents
• Waterproof luggage as small interisland boat journeys can be a little damp
These are a few of the basic items that you will require. Activity specific items include a mask and snorkel if you are diving or snorkelling, some sollarrez if you are surfing the reef breaks to fix dings you will likely fall upon and fishing lures and poles for fishing as most Fijians use hand lines.
As for camping, a light sleeping bag is sufficient for beach stays and a water proof lightweight tent is absolutely necessary for those intending to camp. A stove that burns kerosene is handy as kerosene is widely available throughout Fiji and not all backpackers accommodation have cooking facilities.
Health and Safety
Fiji is malaria free and there are no poisonous snakes or animals. There are though a broad array of animal life in the country ranging from the mongoose to wild pigs. One of the amazing things about Fiji is that there are no venemous spiders or snakes inhabiting the islands, thus camping or any other outdoor activity is safe with respect to wildlife.
The sea life is diverse due to the reefs and deep sea water. The most common snake in Fiji is the banded sea snake (black and white striped) and it is likely that you will encounter it while snorkelling or diving, whilst potentially venomous, to date there have been no recorded cases of people been bitten.
Fiji is a relatively peaceful place for travellers to visit. Like any country in the world, there is some degree of crime but this can easy to avoid most times by adhering to safety suggestions such as these below.
• Avoid travelling alone at night
• Always let someone know where you are going or staying
• Avoid hitchhiking alone
• Keep your valuables in a safe place
• Do not show off your expensive valuables as you make yourself a target for robbery or harassment
• Do not carry large amounts of cash if possible
• Do not buy or seek marijuana, there is a new mandatory 3 month prison term if caught with even a • small amount of the drug, locals and traveller’s alike
• If someone you don’t know is asking you ‘Where you are staying?’, say you are but a humble backpacker or camper … even if you are not.
• As always – common sense prevails.
Fiji really is the archetypal paradise, with stress-free friendly people who work on ‘Fiji time’, it can be a fun party place, or simply a relaxing beach escape. The word ‘paradise’ gets banded about too often, but if anywhere in the world was deserving of this description it’s definitely Fiji.
This country is a really special destination and it really win your heart. The beautiful islands, people, culture and laidback lifestyle will make you want to stay. Plan a trip to Fiji today.