Welcome to Fiji

Bula! Welcome to Fiji. This tropical paradise is made up of more than 300 island and islets, all of which look like they’ve been designed as a movie set. These stunning islands are the stuff of daydreams, from their white-sand beaches to their crystal-clear bays.

Snorkel over kaleidoscopic coral reefs, glimpsing some of the 1,500 species of fish that make this underwater world their home. Go deeper and dive into world-renowned sites like Grand Central Station. Go beyond the beach and meet friendly Fijians who will invite you into their homes and churches, into gardens and onto rugby fields to immerse you in their vibrant culture.

Dance the night away in Suva or raise a glass with the locals in Savusavu’s taverns. Venture to seldom-visited island of Taveuni and take the Lavena Coastal Walk along white sand, then black sand, to a natural swimming pool below Wainibau Falls. Feel worlds away, just an easy nonstop flight away from the west coast.

Unique Facts

• You won’t run out of places to snorkel. Fiji boasts more than 4,000 square miles of coral reef, including the Great Astrolabe Reef.
• Say yes to kava, also known by its Fijian name, If you’re invited to a kava-drinking demonstration, sit cross-legged in a circle on the floor or ground as the head of ceremony mixes up the beverage, known for its relaxation-inducing properties. When you are passed your portion, clap once, accept the bowl, drink it in one go, then clap again and say, “Bula!”
• Fiji’s main commercial export is water. It is bottled from a natural aquifer and sold globally.
• There are nearly 800 species of plants found in Fiji that are found nowhere else in the world. The most famous is the tagimoucia flower, which is found only on one mountain ridge on the island of Taveuni.
• Cannibalism was practiced for a long time here in Fiji, starting around 400 BC. Of course, it’s no longer happening, but modern Fijian stores have capitalized on this gruesome history and sell many humorous cannibal-themed souvenirs.

Language

Fiji’s official language is English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Fiji is July through September. Keep in mind that this is peak (expensive) season. The shoulder seasons of May to June and the month of October are also grea times to visit. If you visit from November to April, you will have nice weather, but have to deal with the threat of tropical storms from time to time.

Airports

Nadi International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months past arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None required for stays of four months or less

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Fiji: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type I. Standard voltage: 240V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Fijian Dollar

Getting Around

Traffic moves on the left in Fiji. Roads in urban areas are paved, but they are poorly maintained. Roads outside the city are usually not paved. In the city, be especially attentive when driving after dark. Outside of the city, it is best to avoid driving after dark.

Avoid using minivans and public buses for public transportation. There have been multiple recent reports of public buses catching fire or having severe accidents.

Driver’s License

Valid driver’s license from country of origin is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Suva
158 Princes Rd, Tamavua
Suva, Fiji Islands
Telephone: +(679) 331-4466
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(679) 772-8049
Fax: +(679) 330-2267
SuvaACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Fiji Visitors Bureau
P.O. Box 9217
Nadi Airport, Fiji Islands
Tel: 672-2433
Fax: 672-0141
www.bulafiji.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance, Fire: 910 or 911
Police: 917

Safety and Security

There is a higher threat of crime in urban areas versus rural areas. Ask your accommodation staff which areas to avoid. Protect your valuables. The most common crimes against tourists are theft from hotel rooms, purse snatching and pickpocketing.