FIJI

Fiji, an archipelago in the heart of the South Pacific, is renowned for its idyllic islands, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. With a rich blend of indigenous Fijian and Indo-Fijian cultures, it offers warm hospitality, diverse marine life, and lush tropical landscapes for an unforgettable island escape.

Region: Oceania (Melanesia)

Capital: Suva

Official Languages: English, Fijian, Fiji Hindi

Level of Travel Safety: Take normal security precautions. Petty crime, such as theft, is common. Be vigilant at night in urban areas and avoid showing signs of affluence. Be aware of natural hazards like tropical cyclones, especially during the wet season.

A map of Oceania, with Fiji highlighted.

Why Visit Fiji?

Pristine Beaches & Coral Reefs: Explore Fiji’s world-famous white-sand beaches, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Traditional Fijian Culture: Experience authentic Fijian culture through ceremonies, dances, and local villages.

Island Hopping: With over 330 islands, Fiji is perfect for exploring remote and stunning tropical islands.

An aerial view of a tropical island with lush green vegetation, white sandbars, and clear turquoise water.

Adventure & Nature: Hike through lush rainforests, visit stunning waterfalls, or go white-water rafting in the Sigatoka River.

Friendly Locals: Fijians are famous for their hospitality. “Bula!” is a warm greeting you’ll hear everywhere.

Underwater Wonders: Dive at the Great Sea Reef or one of the many famous dive sites like the Coral Coast.

Sharks and other fish swim around in clear blue water, possibly during a feeding.

Essential Trip Information

Fiji has strict entry requirements. Check your visa requirements on the official Fiji Immigration website.

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.

Visa on arrival: Citizens from most countries, including the U.S., can obtain a visa on arrival for stays of up to 4 months.

ESTA or other visa waivers are not applicable for Fiji; you must check if you need a visa before departure.

The official currency of Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD).

1 FJD = 0.47 USD (approximate).

Bills: $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.

Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, and $1.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount of money at your local bank or an exchange bureau. ATMs are available in most cities and offer better rates.
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks like ANZ, Westpac, or BSP. Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at most tourist locations, but carry FJD 20–50 for small vendors and markets.
  • What to Avoid: Currency exchange kiosks at airports, which charge high fees.

English is widely spoken and is one of the official languages of Fiji.

Fijian and Hindustani are also spoken by local populations.

Helpful phrases: “Bula” (hello), “Vinaka” (thank you), “Sega” (no), “Eda sai or’na?” (How much is this?)

Fiji is generally very safe for tourists. However, exercise caution in more remote areas or when hiking.

Watch for pickpockets in crowded places, especially in markets or at large tourist spots.

Emergency number: 911 for police, 911 for medical emergencies.

No mandatory vaccinations for entry into Fiji.

Travel insurance is highly recommended as healthcare can be expensive for foreigners.

Tap water is safe to drink in major cities, but it’s safer to drink bottled water in remote areas.

Public buses: A reliable mode of transport within towns and cities.

Taxis: Available in larger towns. Always negotiate the price before you start the ride.

Biking: Rental shops available in major cities.

Ferries/Boats: Regular services to islands (book in advance during peak season).

Fiji tends to be moderately priced for most international travelers, with some luxury options available.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels and budget hotels ($50–100 USD/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels ($120–200 USD/night)

  • Luxury: 4-5 star hotels and resorts ($300+/night)

Food

  • Quick eats: Local food stalls ($5–10 USD), takeaway (small meals like curry or noodles)

  • Casual dining: Restaurants ($15–35 USD/person)

  • Fine dining: Resorts or high-end restaurants ($50+/person)

Drinks

  • Beer: $4–7 USD (bars), $1–3 USD (supermarkets)

  • Cocktails: $10–15 USD

Transportation

  • Public Buses: $1–2 USD/ride

  • Taxis/Uber: $5–15 USD for short trips

  • Car Rentals: $40–70 USD/day

  • Boat Transfers (inter-island): $10–30 USD, depending on the distance.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Stay at guesthouses or budget hotels outside main tourist areas to save on accommodation costs.

  • Dine in local restaurants for cheaper meals than in tourist resorts.

  • Use public transportation for short trips instead of taxis.

Explore Fiji

A popular archipelago of stunning islands west of Viti Levu. These islands are renowned for their white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and luxury resorts, perfect for relaxation and water sports.

A chain of volcanic islands further northwest of Viti Levu. Offering a more authentic Fijian experience with traditional villages and incredible snorkeling and diving spots, it’s a picturesque escape from the main island.

A man-made island connected to Viti Levu near Nadi. It is a hub of upscale resorts, an international golf course, and a marina, serving as a convenient base for island hopping and luxury stays.

Located a short drive north of Nadi on Viti Levu. This lush valley is home to beautiful orchid gardens and natural hot springs and mud pools, offering a relaxing and scenic natural attraction.

Winding through the largest Fijian island of Viti Levu. An exploration of this river allows visitors to journey through dense tropical forests, past waterfalls, and visit traditional Fijian villages for cultural experiences.

Fiji’s first national park, located on the southwest coast of Viti Levu. These impressive, ancient sand dunes are a unique natural wonder and an important archaeological site, revealing Fiji’s ancient history.

Fiji’s third-largest island, known for its lush tropical rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant coral reefs. Located northeast of Viti Levu, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and divers.

A vibrant and colorful Hindu temple located in Nadi on Viti Levu. It’s the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture and cultural significance.

A serene rainforest park located just outside Suva on Viti Levu. It offers walking trails, natural swimming holes, and abundant birdlife, providing a refreshing escape into nature close to the capital.

Located on the Coral Coast of Viti Levu, this ecological park is a captive breeding facility and rehabilitation center for Fiji’s indigenous wildlife. Visitors can interact with native animals and learn about conservation efforts.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Lush, Green Landscapes
  • Dramatic Waterfalls (due to rain)
  • Authentic Local Vibe (more interaction with locals)

Main Drawbacks:

  • High Temperatures & Humidity (frequently 80-90ºF / 27-32ºC)
  • Frequent, but often brief, Tropical Downpours
  • Risk of Tropical Cyclones
  • Reduced Visibility for Diving/Snorkeling (due to runoff)

Key Regions:

  • Viti Levu (Eastern side around Suva): Experience the capital’s indoor attractions and lush rainforests, which are even more vibrant with rain.
  • Vanua Levu: A less-visited main island, it offers a more authentic experience with fewer tourists, even during the wet season.
  • Inland Viti Levu: Waterfalls and rivers are at their most spectacular, offering opportunities for river safaris and jungle treks.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (warm, less humid than wet season)
  • Manageable Crowds (fewer than peak, more than low)
  • Reasonable Prices (better than peak season)
  • Good Visibility for Diving/Snorkeling (improving or still good)
  • Seasonal Activities (e.g., manta ray sightings in May/October)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Can still experience occasional rain showers, especially in October.
  • Temperatures can be quite warm, especially in October (75-85ºF / 24-29ºC).
  • Prices begin to creep up towards peak season rates.

Key Regions:

  • Mamanuca Islands: Enjoy beautiful resorts and water activities with excellent weather and fewer crowds than mid-dry season.
  • Yasawa Islands: Perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving in pleasant conditions before or after the busiest periods.
  • Coral Coast (Viti Levu): Experience beautiful beaches and cultural villages with comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.
  • Dry Season (June – September)
  • Australian and New Zealand school holidays (especially July/August)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

Planning Your Trip

Fiji is known for its welcoming people and relaxed lifestyle, but respecting local traditions is important.

Greetings: The traditional greeting is the “bula” (hello) with a handshake. For more formal occasions, a traditional “sevusevu” ceremony might occur, involving the presentation of a kava root to elders.

Tipping: Tipping is not customary, though appreciated. Round up restaurant bills or leave a small tip for excellent service.

Dress Code: Casual, lightweight clothing is ideal. In the evenings or in villages, modest attire is expected—avoid swimwear outside of the beach or pool area.

Respect for Elders: Fijian culture holds elders in high regard, so show respect during cultural ceremonies and in conversations.

Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas or during cultural ceremonies.

Tip: When in villages, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain buildings.

Fiji offers a wide range of options depending on your budget.

Accommodation: Hostels ($25–50 per night), budget hotels ($80–150 per night), luxury resorts ($250–500+ per night).

Food: Street food ($5–10), casual meals ($15–30), fine dining ($50+).

Transport: Domestic flights ($50–150 depending on the route), buses ($5–10), taxis ($15–40 for short rides).

Activities: Many beaches and cultural sites are free to visit. Paid activities like diving or island tours range from $50–150.

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: $50–80 (hostels, street food, local transport).

  • Mid-range: $150–250 (3-star hotels, restaurants, boat trips).

  • Luxury: $350+ (luxury resorts, premium tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Available at many hotels, cafes, and public areas in larger towns like Nadi and Suva.

SIM Cards: Available at the Nadi International Airport or local shops. Prepaid plans start around FJ$20 ($10 USD) for 1GB.

eSIMs: Available through local providers like Vodafone and Digicel.

Tip: Consider getting a local SIM card for better coverage, especially if you’re traveling to more remote islands.

Recommended for: Medical coverage, trip delays (common due to weather), and adventure activities (diving, surfing, etc.).

Healthcare: Medical services are basic in more remote areas. It’s advisable to travel with medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation.

Adventure Activities: Ensure your insurance covers activities like diving and hiking, as some policies may exclude high-risk activities.

Fiji offers a variety of accommodation types ranging from luxury resorts to affordable hostels.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: Likuliku Lagoon Resort (Mamanuca Islands), InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa (Natadola Bay).
  • Mid-range: The Pearl Resort (Pacific Harbour), Novotel Suva Lami Bay.
  • Budget: Smugglers Cove Beach Resort (Nadi), Bamboo Backpackers (Nadi).

Hostels:

  • Mantis Resort (Coral Coast) or Fiji Beachouse (Coral Coast) for a relaxed and budget-friendly vibe.

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Look for homes on the main islands (Viti Levu and Vanua Levu) or remote, tranquil properties in the outer islands for more privacy.

Boutique Stays:

  • Nanuku Auberge Resort (Pacific Harbour) – a wellness-focused retreat.
  • Tavarua Island Resort (Mamanuca Islands) – a perfect escape for surfers.

Tip: Choose an accommodation near a beach or with easy access to boat transfers to make the most of Fiji’s natural beauty.

Fiji is spread across a collection of islands, and transportation options vary depending on your location.

Domestic Flights:

  • Air Fiji offers flights between main islands, including Nadi, Suva, and the Mamanuca Islands.
  • Flight duration is typically under 1 hour between main islands.

Ferries/Boats:

  • Ferries run frequently between the main islands and smaller ones, such as the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands.
  • Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons.

Buses:

  • Limited to the main islands, buses are an inexpensive way to explore larger islands like Viti Levu.
  • Routes generally cover popular tourist destinations and towns.

Taxis/Rideshares:

  • Taxis are available, but rideshare services (like Uber) are not widely used in Fiji.

Car Rental:

  • Renting a car is a great way to explore Viti Levu and other large islands.
  • Driving is on the left side of the road.

Walking:

  • Many resorts and towns are walkable, especially in Nadi and Suva.

Tip: Use ferries and domestic flights for island hopping, and consider renting a car for exploring larger islands.

Handy Tips

Fiji uses the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Bills come in F$2, F$5, F$10, F$20, F$50, and F$100 denominations; coins include 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, and 50c.

  • Exchanging Currency: Currency exchange rates are best at banks or authorized currency exchange shops. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels due to high rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but small vendors may only accept cash. Carry cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10–15% (check if gratuity is already included).

    • Taxis/Rideshares: Round up the fare or tip F$1–2.

    • Hotel Staff: F$1–2 per bag for porters; F$2–5 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: F$5–10 per person for group tours.

English is widely spoken and is the official language. However, Fijian and Hindi are also commonly used in daily life. Helpful phrases:

  • “Bula!” (Hello)

  • “Vinaka!” (Thank you)

  • “Where is the nearest bus stop?”

  • “How much is this?”
    Pro Tip: Fijians are incredibly friendly, and it’s appreciated when visitors greet with a warm “Bula!”

Fiji is generally safe, but always stay alert in crowded places like markets or tourist hotspots. Avoid isolated areas after dark.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 911: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).
  • 911 for international travelers (the emergency service number works for both local and tourists).
  • Your Embassy: Keep the contact details of your embassy handy for emergencies.

Fiji uses 240V/50Hz with Type I plugs (two flat pins in a V-shape, with an earth pin). International visitors will need a plug adapter.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities and tourist areas. However, in rural or remote regions, it’s advisable to drink bottled water. Restaurants typically provide free tap water when requested.

Fiji observes several public holidays where businesses and services may close:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 2nd Mon in Jan: National Holiday

  • 4th Mon in Feb: National Day

  • Easter Weekend: Good Friday, Easter Monday

  • 10 Oct: Fiji Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Stores: Typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, with extended hours in major tourist areas.

Pharmacies: Many are open from 8:00 AM–8:00 PM, with some 24/7 options in larger cities.

Markets: Local markets like Suva Municipal Market are open daily, from early morning until late afternoon.

Kokoda: Fiji’s take on ceviche—fresh fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream.

Lovo: Earth-oven feast with chicken, fish, taro, and root vegetables—cooked underground.

Palusami: Taro leaves baked in coconut cream—silky, rich, and often filled with fish or meat.

Fish Suruwa: A mild Indo-Fijian fish curry made with coconut milk and spices.

Rourou: Creamy stewed taro leaves, often eaten with cassava or rice.

Crab Curry: Fresh mud crabs simmered in Indian-style curry sauce—flavor-packed and spicy.

Chilli Chicken: Chinese-Fijian stir-fry favorite—bold and sweet-spicy.

Cassava Chips: Thicker than potato chips—crispy and addictive.

Roti and Curry: Simple but comforting—soft flatbread with lentil or meat curry.

Vakalolo: Sticky dessert made of grated cassava, coconut, and brown sugar—wrapped in banana leaves.

Fijian Pancakes: Deep-fried dough puffs filled with coconut or jam.

Boiled Bananas with Coconut Milk: Simple island treat served warm.

Tavioka Cake: Dense cassava cake often spiced and sweetened with coconut or molasses.

Alcoholic:

  • Fiji Bitter: The nation’s go-to lager—crisp and lightly hopped.

  • Fiji Gold: Light beer alternative with a smoother finish.

  • Bounty Rum: Locally distilled—available in white, dark, and overproof varieties.

  • Ratu Rum: Premium aged rum with notes of vanilla and spice—try it neat.

  • South Pacific Punch: Fruity rum-based punch with tropical juice blends.

  • Vono Wine: Locally made tropical fruit wines—pineapple and mango versions are fun to try.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Kava: Traditional drink made from the pounded root of the yaqona plant—earthy, numbing, ceremonial.

  • Bu (Young Coconut Water): Refreshing and hydrating—sold fresh at roadside stands.

  • Lemon Leaf Tea: Herbal infusion made from fresh citrus leaves.

  • Soursop Juice: Tart, tropical fruit drink—popular island remedy.

  • Fiji Water: Yes, it’s local—bottled from an artesian aquifer on Viti Levu.

Kava Ceremonies: Sit cross-legged, clap once, drink the earthy mix—it’s the heart of village hospitality.

Firewalking Rituals: Sacred Beqa Island tradition—walk across hot stones untouched.

Traditional Meke: Fijian dance showcasing warrior chants and storytelling.

Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple: Bright Hindu temple in Nadi—ornate Dravidian architecture.

Fijian Village Visits: Step into rural life—modesty and respect essential.

National Museum of Fiji: Explore cannibal artifacts, colonial history, and Fijian culture.

Suva Municipal Market: Buzzing with tropical produce and local life.

Colonial Buildings in Levuka: A UNESCO-listed town frozen in 19th-century charm.

Fijian Handicrafts: Buy woven mats, tapa cloths, and wood carvings made by artisans.

Indo-Fijian Festivals: Celebrate Holi or Diwali with sweets, saris, and fireworks.

Snorkeling/Diving: Great Astrolabe Reef (Kadavu) or Soft Coral Capital (Taveuni).

Island Hopping: Mamanuca/Yasawa Islands (day trips or overnight stays).

Sigatoka Sand Dunes: UNESCO-listed archaeological site.

Fijian Firewalking: Sacred ritual (Beqa Island).

Zip-lining: Over rainforests (Pacific Harbour).

Sabeto Hot Springs: Mud pools near Nadi.

Local Village Visits: Experience meke (traditional dance).

Sunset Cruises: From Denarau Marina.

Pearl Farm Tours: In Savusavu.

Surfing: Cloudbreak (for experts) or Natadola Beach (beginners).