Fiji Travel Tips

Planning a Fiji holiday?
Helpful Fiji travel information for a trouble-free vacation.

The Fiji Islands are unique. You can discover yourself and get back in touch with Nature’s wonderland. Renowned for their friendliness and warm hospitality, after a holiday among her people, Fiji will remain with you for a lifetime. With 333 islands, each region of Fiji offers visitors something a little different.

Quick Links

• Weather »
• Money »
• Health »
• Language and Culture »
• Shopping and Duty Free »
• Food »
• Flights, Transfers and Driving »

Fiji Weather

What is the weather and temperature in Fiji?

There are two seasons in Fiji – warm and even warmer with temperatures ranging between 26°C – 31°C. Depending upon what you are seeking from your Fiji holiday will determine what time of year best suits your requirements.

April – Early October

The sun isn’t quite as hot nor the humidity as high. The days are warm but the nights cooler.

November – May

It can get very hot and humid. As with all tropical climates, sudden rain showers are frequently followed by strong burst of cloudless, sunny skies.

Rainfall

Annual rainfall on the main islands is between 2000mm and 3000mm on the coast and low lying areas, and up to 6000mm in the mountains.  The smaller islands typically receive less rainfall and range between 1500mm – 3500mm. Cyclones can occur in Fiji and are normally confined to the wet season.

Fiji Money

What is Fiji money called?

The Fijian dollar is the basic unit of currency, available in denominations of $2, $5, $10, $20, $50. Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c and $1. There is no limit to the amount of money to be brought in. Visitors are allowed to take out currency up to the amount imported. Approximately 2 Fiji dollars equals 1 US Dollar. Australian dollars can be exchanged for Fijian Dollars at most hotels and bank and major credit cards are generally accepted.

Should you tip staff in Fiji?

Tipping is not encouraged in Fiji and it is left to the individual to determine whether to make a gratuity. In lieu of daily tipping, some resorts operate a staff Christmas fund where “tips” are shared.

Fiji Health Information

Fiji is free from malaria, yellow fever and major tropical diseases that are endemic to most tropical countries. It has an effective medical system in place although local people still believe in the efficacy of age-old herbal remedies.

Do I need to get any vaccinations before travelling to Fiji?

Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are only required if coming from an infected area as designated by the World Health Organisation. Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over I year of age coming from an infected area.

Can you drink the water in Fiji?

Fresh water reticulated in Suva, Lautoka and the other major towns has been treated and is safe to drink from the tap. This also applies to hotels and resorts.

Some resorts use artesian water for bathing, but provide drinking water separately. If this is the case, visitors will be advised.

Fiji Language & Culture

Do they speak English in Fiji?

Almost everyone in Fiji speaks English – as it is the official language, but the Fijian language is preserved and widely spoken in many different dialects. Almost everyone is bilingual and many Fijian terms are included in everyday English usage. Bula! This is the common Fijian greeting. It goes beyond the simple hello, to incorporate spirit and literally means ‘life’.

Helpful Fijian words

Ni Sa Bula / Bula Vinaka   –   A warm Hello
Yadra Vinaka  –  Good Morning
Vathava tiko  –  How are you?
Vinaka  –  Thank you
Ni Sa Mothe  –  Goodbye
Kerekere – Please

What is Fijian life like?

Village life is central to the Fijian culture.  Taking a tour of a traditional Fijian village can be somewhat of a trip back in time where customs have remained in place for hundreds of years. Many villagers still live in traditional thatched roof bures and rely mostly upon nature to sustain their daily needs.

A Fiji village tour is a lovely way to spend a morning, afternoon or even the entire day. We recommend taking part in a guided tour, rather than fronting up unannounced.

Are there rules when visiting a Fijian village?

When visiting a Fijian village, it is customary to present a gift of kava (approximately $15-$25 / half kilo) which is presented to the traditional head of the village and usually at their home. During your visit, the kava may be served and shared.

It is important to dress modestly when away from your hotel, and especially when visiting a traditional village. It is a good idea to carry a sulu (sarong) with you so you can cover your bathing suit, shorts, dresses or halter tops. It is considered an insult to wear a hat in a Fijian village (it’s considered an insult to the chief) and please remove your shoes if invited to enter their home. It is also an insult to touch someone on the head.

Fiji Shopping

Is there shopping in Fiji?

Whether shopping or just browsing, here’s your opportunity to become acquainted with some of the savviest Fijians as well the best barterers around.

In Fiji, you’ll discover unique cultural and historical artifacts, stylish international boutique fashions as well as budget gift and souvenir shops. Most stores are open 8am to 5pm or 6pm, sometimes later at hotels and resorts. Most stores are closed on Sundays. All of your major credit cards are widely accepted.

Are there markets in Fiji?

YES!  The markets in Fiji are an overload on the senses – the smell different herbs and spices, the sound of several languages being spoken, the sight of vibrant flowers and the freshest seafood straight from the ocean, and the taste of the fresh fruit and vegetables grown locally.

The markets also provide visitors with an insight into the Fijian people at work. Farmers bring their crops of seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit to sell not only to the locals but also the resort kitchens.

At the markets, you’ll delight in purchasing locally made handicrafts, all of which varies from region to region. Some districts are famous for their pottery and tapa cloth, whilst others specialise in timber carvings.

Most resorts offer weekly excursions to the local markets. You may prefer to hire a driver or self-drive.

What is the duty free allowance in Fiji?

2.25 litres of alcohol (liquor, wine and champagne). 50 grams of cigarettes OR 50 grams of tobacco/cigars.

Fiji Food

What is the food in Fiji?

Dining in Fiji offers a multiethnic culinary experience. Whether dining at your hotel, island resort or “in town”, you’ll find a palate painted by flavours from India, China, Korea, Japan, Italy and the best of Europe as well as Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific waters.

Restaurants run the gamut from five star international to 24-hour air-conditioned coffee shops. Steaks and local seafood can be found in most restaurants as can the specialties of our own Fijian cooking heritage. Most hotels and resorts also offer specific culinary themed nights, Magiti (Fijian feasts), beach or poolside BBQ’s, as well as Fiji’s best known and pervasive outdoor cooking experience-the lovo, an underground oven of heated rocks cooking a variety of foods wrapped in banana leaves. covered with earth and coming out after several hours of cooking with a faintly smoky flavour, lovos, produce succulent, tender meats, chicken, seafood, and given the proper occasion, a whole suckling pig!

Fiji Flights, Transfers and Driving

Do I need a visa to travel from New Zealand to Fiji?

For stays not exceeding 30 days, visas are not required by nationals of Commonwealth countries, EU countries, USA or Japan. However you must have a valid, ongoing or return airline ticket and your Passport must be valid for six months beyond your intended stay in Fiji.

Flying from New Zealand to Fiji (and return)

Fiji’s International Airline, Fiji Airways (previously Air Pacific) has been connecting the world to Fiji and the South Pacific for over 60 years. With a route network that spans 15 destinations in 10 countries, Fiji’s national airline provides unequalled access to the Pacific and beyond through their hub in Nadi.

Domestic flights in Fiji

Fiji’s domestic carrier, Fiji Link, offers services that are reliable, comfortable and competitively priced, with a comprehensive range of schedules to connect to and from international arrivals.

From its base at Nadi Airport, Fiji Link has domestic routes to Suva, Kadavu in the south, Savusavu and Labasa on Vanua Levu Island in the north, and Tavenui, also in the north.

Island transfers

Helicopter Transfers

Maximise your ‘Island Time’ by avoiding unnecessary delays or an over-night wait for other forms of transfers.  Island Hoppers offer express transfers from Nadi Airport or Denarau to Mamanuca Island Resorts, the Coral Coast and beyond.

Seaplane Transfers

Seaplant transfers operate daily from Nadi and Denarau to any resort in Fiji. Our representative will meet you at Nadi Airport or at your resort to ensure an efficient and friendly transfer.

Water Taxi

A 24 hour water taxi service connects Port Denarau Marina and all resorts located in the Mamanuca Islands and lower Yasawa Islands. It’s the perfect way to connect directly to your island resort and ensure you connect directly with flight arrivals and/or departures.

Boat or Launch

Mananuca Island Transfers: South Sea Cruises has fast, modern vessels providing resort connections to all resorts in the Mamanucas. All vessels have air-conditioned lounges, viewing decks, full bar services and commentary. Complimentary coach transfers are available from most Nadi and Denarau accommodation to Denarau Marina.

Yaswawa Island Transfers: Awesome Adventures Fiji operates a daily service to the Yasawa Islands and travel as far north as Nacula Island. The 27-metre fast catamaran features to air-conditioned lounges, viewing decks and fully licensed bar with snacks. Upgrade to the Captain’s Lounge and receive complimentary refreshments while onboard and a dedicated hostess to look after you throughout your trip.