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Best hikes in Fiji

GVI

Posted: January 25, 2023

Are you ready to explore some of the most breathtaking trails in the Pacific? Fiji is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and lush rainforests, but did you know that it also has some of the best hiking trails in the region? In this guide, I’ll be sharing with you the best time to visit, budget tips, a wide variety of hikes, what to bring and some itinerary options to help you make the most of your time in Fiji. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on all that this country has to offer. So, let’s lace up those hiking boots and start planning your trip of a lifetime!

Best time to hike

The best time to hike in Fiji is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is also peak tourist season and prices for accommodations and flights tend to be higher. But, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the shoulder season (November to April) is a great time to visit. The weather is still warm, and there are fewer crowds, which means you can explore the trails without the crowds and lower prices for accommodations and flights.

The Mount Batilamu hike is a moderate hike that takes about 4-5 hours to complete and offers a great workout as well as breathtaking views of the Mamanuca and Yasawa island groups. The trailhead is located in the village of Navala, and the hike is best done with a guide who can give you insight into the local culture and history.

Top hikes in Fiji

Dawasamu Rainforest Hike

One of the best hikes in Fiji is located in the Dawasamu region. This hike is moderate in difficulty, with a distance of 6km and an estimated hiking time of 3-4 hours. The hike takes you through the lush rainforest, where you will see an abundance of flora and fauna, including a variety of bird species and even a chance to spot the Fijian Crested Iguana, which is only found in this area. There are no permits or fees required for this hike.

Navilawa Village Trek

This hike is located in the Nausori Highlands and offers a challenging climb to the summit of Navilawa Mountain. The hike takes hikers through traditional Fijian villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a 10km hike with an estimated hiking time of 6–8 hours.

Taveuni Waterfall Hike

The Taveuni Waterfall Hike is an easy hike located on the island of Taveuni, which takes hikers to the beautiful Tavoro Waterfalls. The hike is 2km long and takes about 2 hours to complete. This hike is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the island and see the waterfall up close.

Mount Tomanivi Summit Hike

The Mount Tomanivi Summit hike is a challenging and strenuous hike, located in the heart of Viti Levu, the main island of Fiji. The summit stands at 1,323m, and provides an incredible panoramic view of the island. The hike is 8km long and takes an estimated 6-8 hours to complete. This hike is perfect for those who are looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. The summit provides an amazing view and a great sense of accomplishment.

Colo-i-Suva Forest Park Hike

The Colo-i-Suva Forest Park hike is a moderate hike located in the Viti Levu. This hike offers the chance to explore the lush rainforest and see a variety of bird species and tropical plants. The hike is 4km long and takes about 2 hours to complete. This hike is perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the rainforest and learn about the different bird species and plants that live there.

Bouma National Heritage Park Hike

The Bouma National Heritage Park hike is a great option for those who want to immerse themselves in the lush rainforests of Fiji. The park is home to three waterfalls, with the Tavoro Waterfalls being the most popular. The trail is well-maintained, but can be steep in some sections. The hike takes about 2–3 hours to complete, and the reward is a refreshing swim in the pools below the falls.

Packing list

Hiking shoes or boots: A good pair of hiking shoes or boots with good traction and support is essential for any hike. It’s also important to break in your hiking shoes or boots before your trip to avoid blisters.
Water: Fiji is a tropical country, so it’s important to stay hydrated while hiking. Bring at least 2 litres of water per person, and consider bringing a water filter or purification tablets in case you need to refill your water bottle on the trail.
Sun protection: The sun can be intense in Fiji, so it’s important to bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sun exposure.
Insect repellent: Mosquitos and other insects can be an issue in Fiji, so bring insect repellent to keep them at bay.
First aid kit: Accidents can happen, so it’s always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any other personal medications you may need.
Rain jacket: Fiji is known for its sudden rainfalls, so bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to protect yourself from the rain.
Headlamp or flashlight: Many of the hikes in Fiji take place in remote areas, and it’s always a good idea to bring a headlamp or flashlight for any unexpected delays or emergencies.
Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery of Fiji.
Cash and credit card: Some of the hikes in Fiji may require a permit or park fee, and it’s always a good idea to have cash and a credit card on hand for emergencies or unexpected expenses.
Packable daypack: A lightweight, packable daypack is essential to carry all of your essentials on the hike.

It’s also important to note that it’s best to wear clothing that’s comfortable, lightweight, and breathable, and that covers the body to protect from the sun and insects. Avoid cotton clothing, as it takes a long time to dry if it gets wet. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast and adjust your packing list accordingly.

Suggested 3-day hiking itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Nadi International Airport
Check-in at accommodation in Nadi
In the afternoon, take a short hike at the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. This hike is located just a short drive from Nadi and offers a moderate hike through the lush rainforest, with a chance to see a variety of bird species and tropical plants. The hike is 4km and takes about 2 hours.
After the hike, visit the Nadi Market for an authentic Fijian experience. The market is known for its fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Day 2

Early morning departure to Taveuni Island. There are several ways to get to Taveuni Island from Nadi, including taking a domestic flight to Matei Airport, or taking a ferry from the Port Denarau Marina.
Arrival on Taveuni Island and check-in at accommodation
Take the Taveuni Waterfall Hike. This easy hike is located on the island of Taveuni and takes hikers to the beautiful Tavoro Waterfalls. The hike is 2km and takes about 2 hours.
Return to accommodation and rest
In the afternoon, visit the Taveuni Island Cultural Centre to learn more about Fijian culture and customs.

Day 3

Early morning departure to Dawasamu. To get to Dawasamu, there are a few options, depending on your preferences. You can either take a domestic flight to Savusavu Airport, or take a bus or car from Taveuni Island.
Arrival in Dawasamu and check-in at accommodation
Take the Dawasamu Rainforest Hike. This moderate hike is located in the Dawasamu region and takes hikers through the lush rainforest, offering the chance to spot a variety of bird species and the Fijian Crested Iguana. It’s a 6km hike with an estimated hiking time of 3-4 hours.
After the hike, visit the Dawasamu Market for an authentic Fijian experience. The market is known for its fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

It’s always recommended to check for any updates on transportation schedules and prices ahead of time, and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

You should now have a good idea of the best hikes in Fiji and how to plan for your trip. Remember that the best time to hike is during the dry season, but the shoulder season is also a great option for budget-friendly travellers. And, after all that hiking, why not consider volunteering with GVI in Fiji to immerse yourself in the local culture, make new friends to join on your next hiking adventure and get involved with conserving the beautiful scenery for future hikers to enjoy.

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