Top Fiji Hikes: Explore Rainforests, Waterfalls, and Pristine Beaches | Go Travel Daily

Top Fiji Hikes: Explore Rainforests, Waterfalls, and Pristine Beaches

Best Hiking Trails in Fiji

Is Fiji good for hiking? In a word, yes. From strolling along a volcanic coastline to tiptoeing around tree roots up a cloud-topped mountain, this South Pacific island nation is a hiker’s heaven. Think waterfalls flowing into natural pools, empty beaches best reached on foot, vibrant birdlife, and views that stretch all the way to the horizon.

While you’ll need to watch where you step, hiking in Fiji is generally very safe. There are no dangerous snakes, spiders, or mammals on the trails; the only major pest is mosquitoes. As you prepare for a trek that might take place under full sun or during rain showers, packing both sun protection and a lightweight rain jacket is advisable.

Before you hit the trails, note that many of the most scenic hikes in Fiji are best done with a guide. If you do plan to trek on your own, ensure the trail doesn’t cut through a village. If it does, be sure to pack a gift (sevusevu) like kava before asking for permission to explore. Here’s a round-up of the best hikes in Fiji.

Lavena Coastal Walk

Best Coastal Hike

10km (6.2 miles) round trip; 4–5 hours; easy

A leisurely path that weaves along Taveuni’s volcanic coastline, the Lavena Coastal Walk is one of the most scenic and varied hikes in Fiji, with a totally different segment around every curve. Beaches change from sugar white to ash grey, while creek crossings and villages add excitement. Fragrant fruit trees, bright flowers, and large leaves line the trail.

Finally, the path leads to a freshwater pool fed by waterfalls. While the first chute is visible, a swim beyond a rock corridor reveals Lavena’s hidden waterfall. During high tide, it’s possible to take a boat ride back to the trailhead, halving the time and effort needed for the round trip.

A hike up Mount Batilamu offers bright flowers, beautiful birds and truly dramatic views © De Agostini / Getty Images

Mount Batilamu

Best Hike for Views

12km (7.5 miles) round trip; 5–6 hours; moderate

Mount Batilamu, a prominent peak in Viti Levu’s dramatic landscape, offers hikers a chance to ascend one of Fiji’s highest mountains. Hikers can trek up to the expansive limestone face, experiencing breathtaking views that expand to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands while spotting various bird species.

For stargazing without city light haze, consider spending the night in a basic lodge atop the mountain.

Viti Levu Cross-Island Hike

Best Multiday Hike

17+km (10+ miles); 3 days; moderate to hard

This immersive hiking adventure takes you across Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island. A guided trek through the villages of Naga and Nubutautau allows you to spend each night immersed in Fijian culture through food and hospitality. The trek leads through grasslands, lush forests, along streams, and to impressive waterfalls.

Tavoro Falls (Bouma Falls)

Best Hike for Waterfalls

7km (4.3 miles) round trip; 3–4 hours; easy to moderate

Located on Taveuni, the aptly nicknamed Garden Island, Bouma National Heritage Park features a trio of stunning waterfalls. The first and tallest, Tavoro Falls, is easily accessible and perfect for families looking to enjoy a refreshing swim.

Mount Tomanivi

Best Hike for Serious Heights

4.5km (2.8 miles) round trip; 5 hours; hard

To hike to the top of Fiji’s highest mountain at 1324m (4343ft) is an exhilarating challenge. Ensure you have a guide for this steep trail. The stunning views from the summit are well worth the effort.

A hike through the rainforest in Suva is stunning but should be done on a sunny day © EAGiven / Getty Images

Mount Korobaba

Best Hike Near Suva

5.6km (3.4 miles) round trip; 3 hours; hard

This popular hike for residents of Fiji’s capital city passes through tropical forests. The trailhead can be a bit challenging to find, but the views from the top are rewarding, provided the weather is clear.

Vuaqava Saltwater Lake

Best Remote Hike

5km (3 miles) round trip; 3 hours; easy

The remote island of Vuaqava, once abandoned during a cholera outbreak, is now only accessible by private boat. The trail leads from a sugar-sand beach through dense forest, ending at a mile-wide saltwater lake.

Vatalutu Trail

Best Hike for Remote Beaches

8.9km (5.5 miles) round trip; 4–5 hours; moderate

Trekking across Vatalutu Island offers an adventure through lush rainforest and untouched beaches. Snorkeling opportunities abound around Great Astrolabe Reef after the hike.

Suva Sea Wall

Best Walk for Culture

5km (3.1 miles) one way; 2 hours; easy

A self-guided walking tour of the Suva Sea Wall showcases historical sites and natural beauty. Ideal for evening strolls, this route is popular with locals and provides a glimpse of Fiji’s rich culture and history.

This article was first published Jan 29, 2022 and updated Oct 15, 2023.

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