Fiji is a Melanesian country about one-third of the way from New Zealand to Hawaii and consists of an archipelago of 332 islands, a handful of which make up most of the land area, and approximately 110 of which are inhabited.
Fiji straddles the 180-degree longitude line (which crosses land on the remote tip of Vanua Levu and again near the centre of Taveuni). The international date line is configured to pass east of all of Fiji, placing it all in one time zone and “ahead” of most of the rest of the world.
Capital. Suva
Currency. Fijian Dollar (FJD)
Area. 18,270km²
Population. 905, 949
Language. English, Fijian, Hindustani
Religion. Christian 58% (Methodist 36%, Roman Catholic 9%), Hindu 33.7%, Muslim 7%, Sikh 0.4%
Country Code. +679
Time Zone. UTC+12h
REGIONS. Fiji can be divided into nine groups of islands:
Viti Levu. This is the largest and most important island of the country. It has most inhabitants, is the most economically developed and is home to the capital, Suva.
Nananu-i-Ra Island — off the northern coast of Viti Levu
Vanua Levu. The second largest island, surrounded by some smaller northern islands.
Taveuni. The third largest island, near Vanua Levu, with the 180th meridian cutting the island in half. It is the exclusive habitat of the Tagimoucia Flower.
Kadavu. This island is south of Viti Levu.
Yasawa Islands. Northwestern island group popular for island-hopping holidays.
Mamanuca Islands. A group of tiny islands west of Viti Levu.
Lomaiviti Islands. The central group of islands between Viti Levu and Lau Group. Ovalau — sixth largest island, part of the Lomaiviti group
Lau Islands. Group of many small islands in eastern Fiji.
Rotuma. Remote dependency of Fiji, home to a different Polynesian ethnic group.
Krishna Janmashtami. Annual Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It is observed according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar. It is an important festival, particularly in the Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduis. Dance-drama enactments of the life of Krishna, devotional singing, fasting, a night vigil (Ratri Jagaran), and a festival.
FIJI – NORTHERN Vanua Levu and Taveuni (Labasa, Savusavu)
VANUA LEVU. The second largest island, surrounded by some smaller northern islands.
TAVEUNI ISLAND. The third largest island, near Vanua Levu, with the 180th meridian cutting the island in half. It is the exclusive habitat of the Tagimoucia Flower.
Bouma National Heritage Park. Located on Taveuni Island, the third-largest island in Fiji, it has an area of 168 square miles, 80% of the island. There is a mountain ridge that runs through the heart of the island with the highest summit occurring at Uluinggalau with a height of 4,072 feet (1,241 m). There are several endemic flora species that are only found in Fiji and because of the abundant plant life on the island, it is affectionately known as the garden island of Fiji.
Tavoro Waterfalls. The three Tavoro Waterfalls can be explored with short hikes with the tallest only requiring a 10-minute hike. It reaches a height of 78 feet (24 m). Another 30 or 4o minute hike is needed to experience the next waterfall. Reach from Lavena.
Yaduataba Crested Iguana Sanctuary. Tentative WHS: (26/10/1999). It is a small volcanic islet at the south-west corner of the larger island of Yadua. A signboard made from dried wood stands on the beach, which reads ‘Wildlife Sanctuary No Entry’. The Crested Iguana is one of the rarest, and to some, one of the world’s most attractive lizards. The species is endemic to the Fiji Islands where it is now restricted to less than 10 of the 300 or so islands of the archipelago.
Yadua Taba is special for another reason in that it contains tropical dry forest vegetation, one of the most (if not the most) endangered vegetation types in the world! The island is also an important Hawksbill turtle nesting site. No one is allowed to visit the island, and landing here is strictly prohibited, unless approved by the National Trust.
Rotuma. Remote dependency of Fiji, home to a different Polynesian ethnic group.
Airports: Labasa (LBS), Savusavu (SVU)
Islands
Moala islands
Southern Lau islands (Kabara, Ogea Levu etc.)
Gau island
Kadavu
Koro island
Ogea Levu and Ogea DrikiNORTHERN – Vanna Levu and Taveuni (Lahasa, Savusavu)
Festivals. Bula Festival, Fara, Rotuma, Hibiscus Festival, South Indian Fire Walking Festival
Beaches
Beqa Island and Lagoon
Castaway island (Qalito)
Malolo island
Monuriki
Nacula: Blue Lagoon
Vomo island
The Dark Side: Hurricane Remnants (Shipwrecks etc.)
Conway Reef (Cevu-I-Ra) is a coral atoll, 2.5 km long. In the middle of the reef there is a small sand cay, 1.8 meters high, about 320 metres long, and 73 metres wide, with a land area of two hectares. Politically, it is in the Western Division and the Nadroga-Navosa province of the Republic of Fiji. However, geographically, it lies 450 km southwest of the main complex of the Fiji Islands. The closest land to Conway Reef is Hunter Island in the French territory of New Caledonia. It is also claimed by Vanuatu, 275 km to the west-southwest (WSW) of Conway Reef.
Access to the island should be attempted only at high tide m, and only in a shallow draft tender. Conway Reef is uninhabited, apart from some birds that appear to have almost no fear of humans. It offers the rare opportunity to experience diving and snorkeling in a virtually untouched underwater environment.
Nananu-i-Ra Island. ff the northern coast of Viti Levu
Kadavu. This island is south of Viti Levu.
UNDERSTAND. Fiji is the product of volcanic mountains and warm tropical waters. Its varied coral reefs today draw tourists from around the world, but were the nightmare of European mariners until well into the 19th century. As a result, Fijians have retained their land and often much of the noncommercial, sharing attitude of people who live in vast extended families with direct access to natural resources. When it came, European involvement and cession to Britain was marked by the conversion to Christianity, the cessation of brutal tribal warfare and cannibalism, and the immigration of a large number of indentured Indian labourers, who now represent nearly half of the population, as well as smaller numbers of Europeans and Asians. Today, Fiji is a land of tropical rainforests, coconut plantations, fine beaches, and fire-cleared hills. For the casual tourist it is blessedly free of evils such as malaria, landmines, or terrorism that attend many similarly lovely places in the world.
Climate. Tropical marine; only slight seasonal temperature variation. Tropical cyclonic storms can occur from November to April.
Terrain. Mostly mountains of volcanic origin.
In most of the interior of the main islands there are some roads and always trails, and an amazing number of remote villages. Buses and open or canvas topped “carriers” traverse the mountains of Vanua Levu several times a day and the interior mountains of Viti Levu many times weekly (The Tacirua Transport “hydromaster” bus which leaves from Nausori in the morning and runs past the hydroelectric reservoir and mount Tomanivi to arrive the same day in Vatoukola and Tavua is the best and the scenery is truly spectacular in good weather!)
PEOPLE. Fiji’s people are among the most varied of all South Pacific nations. With a population of over 900,000, the country is a mixture of Indians (38%), Fijians (56%), ‘part-Europeans’ (1.7%), Europeans (0.7%), Rotumans (1.4%), Chinese (0.9%) and other Pacific Islanders (1%). Fijians, the indigenous inhabitants of Fiji, are Melanesians who possess a mixture of Polynesian blood which is apparent in the eastern islands (such as the Lau group), but less so in the west and interiors of the main islands. Fiji’s Indians can be divided into two broad cultural categories reinforced by physical differences. Those from the north of India – the ‘Calcuttas’, or ‘Calcutta Wallahs’ – came from Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh through the immigration point of Calcutta and spoke ‘village’ Hindustani. The second group was the ‘Madrassis’, who generally had darker skin and lacked the sharp features of those from the north. The part-Europeans, also known as ‘kai loma’, are a distinctive cultural group with one foot in the Fijian world and the other in the Western world. Many are descendants of White Australians, Americans or Europeans who established themselves either in Levuka, on the isolated coconut plantations of Vanua Levu or on the outer islands of Fiji during the 19th century, and took Fijian wives. The Rotumans, a distinct Polynesian ethnic group, come from the island of Rotuma (465 km north-west of Fiji).The Chinese, of whom there are about 5,800, first came to Fiji in 1911. Many have intermarried with the local population.
HISTORY
Fiji became independent in 1970, after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community (descendants of contract labourers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century). The coups and a 1990 constitution that cemented native Melanesian control of Fiji, led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. A new constitution enacted in 1997 was more equitable. Free and peaceful elections in 1999 resulted in a government led by an Indo-Fijian, but a civilian-led coup in May 2000 ushered in a prolonged period of political turmoil. Parliamentary elections held in August 2001 provided Fiji with a democratically elected government led by Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase. There was a further military coup in 2006, led by Commodore Josaia Voreqe (Frank) Bainimarama
Tourism. Tourism is the backbone of the Fijian economy. For travellers, Fiji’s prices are mid-range to expensive because people usually stay in resorts. World-class luxury resorts on isolated islands attract the rich and famous. Fiji can also be done on a budget, but it is advisable to plan ahead. Cheaper resorts offer equally beautiful views compared to their wealthier cousins, and Fiji’s internet accessibility is improving which increasingly aids travellers.
Australians account for half of all visitors, followed by tourists from New Zealand and the U.S.. 75% of visitors to Fiji come for a holiday/vacation. The popular areas to visit are the Nadi region (due to Nadi International Airport), Mamanuca Islands, the Coral Coast, and Denarau Island.
Holidaying. Budget-minded travellers tend to head for the (relatively) cheap Mamanuca and Yasawa Island chains, although accommodation costs are still substantial here. Access to these islands is via Port Denarau on Denarau Island using a ferry service that stops on various islands as it loops its way around. Denarau Island is just 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport. Another option is the Coral Coast on the southern coast of the main island, Viti Levu. Transport can be sought when disembarking off the plane at Nadi International Airport.
GET IN
Visa. Most western countries are visitor permits (valid for 4 months) on arrival in Fiji and do not need to obtain a visa in advance.
By plane. Nadi International Airport (NAN) is Fiji’s main international airport. Suva airport also has some international flights. Fiji Airways (Formerly Air Pacific) is Fiji majority owned and flies to Fiji directly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Honolulu International Airport (HNL) in the USA, and from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), as well as many other locations. Korean Air has three flights weekly between Nadi and Seoul. Air New Zealand operates flights to Nadi from Auckland, Christchurch, and seasonally from Wellington. Virgin Australia offers flights direct to Nadi from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
Pacific Island Air have Fiji covered with Seaplane, Airplane and Helicopter transfers and scenic flights to all destinations including the Northern Islands. Based at Nadi Airport. reservations@pacificislandair.com or +(679) 672 5644
GET AROUND
Fiji has a variety of public transport options, including buses, “share taxis”, and private taxis. Rates are very cheap.
Road travel tends to be more dangerous than many people are used to, and many embassies advise their citizens to avoid pretty much any form of road travel. Potholes, washouts and dilapidated bridges are commonplace. Buses are the best unless you are truly comfortable and capable of renting and driving a car on your own. Another option is hop-on, hop-off bus passes which allow you to tour Fiji at your own pace for a fixed price. These are a more expensive way to travel but feature inclusions like tours and activities. However, some like Feejee Experience are limited to Viti Levu and trips to Beachcomber Island and don’t include the more remote islands.
Inter-island. South Sea Cruises operates daily inter-island ferry transfers throughout Fiji’s Mamanuca Island resorts, except Malolo Lailai (see Malolo Cat below). Awesome Adventures Fiji and the smaller Tavewa Seabus provide daily ferry transfers out to the remote Yasawa Islands. Inter-island ferries are reasonably priced and have a good safety record, though they may be busy at the beginning and end of school holiday periods. Ferries typically offer two or three classes (depending on the ship).
For fast boats to popular Malolo Lailai, the Malolo Cat service runs multiple daily departures from Denarau. A handy resource to compare and combine all ferry departures, timetables and connections to these island groups can be found on Fiji-bookings website. Do note that the furthest extremes of the Yasawa islands take most of the day to reach, depending on weather, up to 5 or 6 hours. The Mamanuca’s, while on average much closer to the mainland, can also take multiple hours to reach. It is compulsory to be booked at an island resort for at least 1 night if you wish to disembark at any of the islands serviced by the ferry routes.
Economy (FJD65 pp on Suva-Taveuni route) is the cheapest option, but requires you to sleep on chairs or on the floor. Suiliven, FJD95 pp on SOFE, Suva-Taveuni) is not necessarily the best option, as the space is very limited, cabin can be shared (4 beds) and can have hordes of bugs.
If you are looking to travel between islands as part of your holiday, it’s worth looking into cruises operating in the area. Captain Cook Cruises Fiji runs small ship discovery cruises around the Fiji islands ranging from day tours to 7 night cultural and adventure tours. If island hopping in the Yasawas, it is often sensible to get a multi-day pass (e.g. Bula Pass), even if visiting only two stops, given the cost of one-way tickets. More expensive plans include flexible accommodations and onward transfers.
Alternatively should you be short on time, travel by air is the way to go. Pacific Island Air offer seaplane, helicopter and light aircraft flights to all islands in the Mamanuca’s and Yasawa’s, Coral Coast and Northern Islands.
Bicycle. Vehicle traffic can be intimidating, lack of accommodation along secondary roads, must carry all your own spares and supplies and plenty of water. The main Road around the largest island, Viti Levu, is sealed except for a 40 km section on the eastern side. A sturdy road, touring or hybrid bike is suitable.
Bike rental can be quite expensive – with two persons the cost is similar to renting a car.
Motorbike. It is possible to rent a motorbike and get it delivered to the airport. Expect to pay c. FJD100 for a day. They will confirm that you have a motorbike licence. The roads are’nt as safe as they may be at home, but its not bad at all – comparable to riding in rural Thailand.
Money. Fiji is more expensive for tourists than most Southeast Asian countries, but comparable to some Western countries. Alcohol is expensive. Budget accommodation is limited. Expect prices for most items to be similar to those of Australia in tourist regions.
ACCOMMODATION
The bulk of accommodation in Fiji falls in the mid-range priced category.
Many smaller and simpler accommodations have “local rates” and can give discounts that are simply huge if you can book a room in person (or have a local do it for you) and give a legitimate local address and phone number.
Nadi is the hub of tourism for the Fiji Islands.
Lautoka is Fiji’s second largest city. The real charm of this dry western side of the island is the mountain ranges inland from Nadi and Lautoka.
Koroyanitu National Park offers hiker overnight adventure through the semi-rainforest, waterfalls and small villages. Tours to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant are also very popular for the different ornamental orchids together with forest walks through botanical wonders.
STAY SAFE. Most crime takes place in Suva and Nadi away from the resort areas. The best advice is to stick to hotel grounds after dark, and to use extreme caution in Suva, Nadi and other urbanised areas after nightfall.
Health. Urban tap water is treated and nearly always safe. Drownings are common, and automobile and other motor vehicle accidents (often involving animals or pedestrians) are very common.
Fiji, like most of the South Pacific, can have intense solar radiation that can cause severe skin-burns in a short amount of time.
RESPECT. Fiji, like many Pacific Island states, has a strong Christian moral society; having been colonised and converted to Christianity by missionaries during the 19th century. Do not be surprised if shops and other businesses are closed on Sunday. The Sabbath starts at 6PM the day before, and some businesses celebrate the Sabbath on a Saturday instead of a Sunday. Many Indians are Hindu or Muslim. Dress modestly and appropriately.
NOMAD MANIA Fiji – Western and Central – Viti Levu (Nadi, Suva), Yasawa
M@P: Conway Reef (Cevu-I-Ra)
Tentative WHS
Sigatoka Sand Dunes (26/10/1999)Sovi Basin (26/10/1999)
Islands
Lomaiviti Islands
Manamuca islands
Viti Levu
Yasawa islands
Borders: Fiji (sea border/port)
XL: Conway Reef
Cities of Asia and Oceania
LAUTOKA
Botanical Gardens: Lautoka Botanical Gardens
Markets: Lautoka Market
NADI
Airports: Nadi (NAN)
Religious Temples: Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple
Botanical Gardens: Garden of the Sleeping Giant
Theme Parks: Big Bula Waterpark
SUVA World City and Popular Town, World Capital
Airports: Suva (SUV)
Museums: Suva: Fiji Museum
Castles, Palaces, Forts: Suva: Bilo Battery
Religious Temples: Suva: Sacred Heart Cathedral
Botanical Gardens: Suva: Thurston Gardens
Hospitality Legends: Suva: Grand Pacific Hotel
Railway, Metro, Funiculars, Cable Cars: Coral Coast Scenic Railway
World of Nature
Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
Sigatoka Sand Dunes NP
Rivers
Rewa River
Sigatoka River
Festivals
Bula Festival
Fara, Rotuma
Hibiscus Festival
South Indian Fire Walking Festival
Experiences: Krishna Janmashtami
Beaches
Beqa Island and Lagoon
Castaway island (Qalito)
Malolo island
Monuriki
Nacula: Blue Lagoon
Vomo island
Yasawa Beaches
Caves: Yasawa: Sawa-i-Lau Caves
The Dark Side: Hurricane Remnants (Shipwrecks etc.)
Fiji – Eastern – Lau Archipelago (Lakeba, Tarakua)
M@P
Moala islands
Southern Lau islands (Kabara, Ogea Levu etc.)
World Heritage Sites: Levuka Historical Port Town
Islands
Gau island
Kadavu
Koro island
Moala Islands
Northern Lau Islands
Ovalau
Southern Lau Islands
Borders: Fiji (sea border/port)
XL
Moala island
Ogea Levu and Ogea Driki
Religious Temples: Levuka: Sacred Heart Church
Experiences: Krishna Janmashtami
Beaches: Northern Lau: Vanua Balavu
Fiji – Northern – Vanua Levu and Taveuni (Labasa, Savusavu)
M@P: Fiji – Rotuma
Islands: Vanua Levu
Tentative WHS: Yaduataba Crested Iguana Sanctuary (26/10/1999)
XL: Rotuma
Airports
Labasa (LBS)
Savusavu (SVU)
World of Nature: Bouma National Heritage Park
Festivals: Friendly North Festival, Labasa
Experiences: Krishna Janmashtami
Waterfalls: Tavoro Waterfalls