Fiji Travel Tips
Fiji is a tropical paradise located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and friendly locals. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji, here are some tips and recommendations to help you plan the best trip to the Island.
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Visa requirements and how to obtain a visa before traveling to Fiji
If you’re planning a trip to Fiji, it’s important to make sure you have the necessary visa and documents before you leave. Most visitors to Fiji can obtain a visa on arrival, which allows you to stay in the country for up to four months. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
Citizens of certain countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, are eligible for a visa on arrival. If you’re a citizen of a different country, you’ll need to apply for a visa in advance through the Fijian embassy or consulate in your home country.
To obtain a visa on arrival, you’ll need to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a return ticket, and enough funds to cover your stay in Fiji. You’ll also need to pay a visa fee of FJD$50 (about $25 USD).
If you’re planning to stay in Fiji for longer than four months, you’ll need to apply for a longer-term visa in advance. This can be done through the Fijian embassy or consulate in your home country, or through the Department of Immigration in Fiji.
In addition to a visa, you’ll also need a valid passport and travel insurance to enter Fiji. Make sure to bring copies of all important documents with you, in case you lose the originals while traveling.
Recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Fiji
Fiji is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect your health while traveling. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers to Fiji get vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid, as these diseases are commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water.
It’s also a good idea to get vaccinated against hepatitis B, which is transmitted through sexual contact and contaminated needles, and rabies, which is transmitted through animal bites. If you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, you may also want to consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, which is transmitted through mosquito bites.
To protect yourself against mosquito-borne diseases, it’s important to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. You should also sleep under a mosquito net if you’re staying in an area with a high risk of malaria.
If you’re traveling to Fiji during the rainy season (November to April), be aware that there is a risk of dengue fever, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. To protect yourself, take the same precautions as you would for other mosquito-borne diseases.
Tips for packing and what to bring to Fiji
When packing for a trip to Fiji, keep in mind that the country has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit year-round. You’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as well as a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for protection from the sun.
If you’ll be spending time on the beach or in the water, bring a pair of water shoes to protect your feet from sharp coral and rocks. You may also want to bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella, as Fiji can be prone to sudden showers, especially during the rainy season.
In terms of electronics, make sure to bring an adapter to fit the local outlets, which have three prongs. You may also want to bring a portable charger to keep your phone and other devices powered up while you’re on the go.
In terms of personal items, don’t forget to bring any necessary medications, including any prescription drugs you take regularly. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, pain relievers, and insect bite cream.
Other items to consider packing include:
Sunglasses and a hat to protect your face from the sun
A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants to protect your skin from the sun and insects
A beach towel and swimsuit cover-up
(Video) 🌴☀️ 30 Tips To Travel Fiji - FijiPocketGuide.comA small backpack or shoulder bag for carrying your essentials while exploring
A copy of your passport and important documents
A small amount of cash in Fijian dollars, as well as a credit or debit card for larger purchases
Recommended places to visit and things to do in Fiji
Fiji is home to a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all interests. Here are just a few of the top things to see and do in Fiji:
Visit the capital city of Suva, located on the island of Viti Levu. The city is home to a bustling market, numerous museums and galleries, and the beautiful Albert Park.
Take a day trip to one of Fiji’s smaller islands, like Mamanuca or Yasawa. These islands are home to beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Explore the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, located in the Nadi region on the island of Viti Levu. The hot springs and mud pool are said to have therapeutic properties and are a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Visit the Orchid Island Cultural Centre, located on the island of Taveuni. The cultural center offers a range of activities and tours, including traditional Fijian dance performances and handicraft demonstrations.
Take a dive and explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of Fiji’s waters. The country is home to a number of dive sites, including the Great White Wall and the Rainbow Reef.
Visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a beautiful botanical garden located in the Nadi region. The garden is home to a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers, as well as a collection of rare orchids.
Go hiking in one of Fiji’s many national parks, including the Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve and the Bouma National Heritage Park. These parks offer a range of trails and natural attractions, including waterfalls and scenic vistas.
Recommended accommodation options (e.g. hotels, resorts, homestays)
Fiji offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top options include:
Hotels: Fiji is home to a number of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Many hotels offer amenities like pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.
Resorts: Fiji is known for its luxury resorts, many of which are located on small islands or along the coast. These resorts often offer a range of amenities and activities, such as spas, golf courses, and water sports.
Homestays: For a more authentic Fijian experience, consider staying in a homestay. Homestays are typically run by local families and offer a chance to learn about Fijian culture and way of life.
Vacation rentals: Another option is to rent a vacation home or apartment through a site like Airbnb. This can be a budget-friendly option for travelers, and allows for more privacy and independence.
Tips for staying safe in Fiji
Fiji is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings while abroad. Here are a few tips for staying safe in Fiji:
Be aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Keep your valuables close to you and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.
Protect yourself from the sun: Fiji’s tropical climate means that the sun is strong year-round. Be sure to use sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin from UV radiation.
Use caution when swimming: Fiji’s waters are generally safe for swimming, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards, such as strong currents or underwater obstacles. Follow any posted warning signs and heed the advice of local authorities.
Avoid scams: As with any destination, there are always people looking to take advantage of tourists. Be wary of anyone offering “too good to be true” deals, and don’t give out personal information or money to strangers.
Respect local customs and laws: Fiji is a culturally diverse country, and it’s important to respect local customs and laws while you’re there. This includes things like dressing modestly, being mindful of your behavior in public, and respecting local religious practices.
Tips for budget travel in Fiji
Fiji can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money while still enjoying all that the country has to offer. Here are a few tips for budget travel in Fiji:
Consider staying in a homestay or vacation rental: Homestays and vacation rentals can be a more budget-friendly option than hotels or resorts, and often offer a more authentic Fijian experience.
Eat like a local: Dining out in Fiji can be expensive, especially at tourist-oriented restaurants. Consider eating local foods and cooking your own meals to save money.
Use public transportation: Fiji has a limited public transportation system, but buses and ferries can be a cheaper way to get around the islands than hiring a car or taking a taxi.
Look for deals and discounts: Many hotels and resorts offer discounts for booking in advance or during the off-season. Keep an eye out for deals and special offers to save money on accommodation.
Consider a package tour: If you’re interested in activities like diving or snorkeling, consider booking a package tour, which can often be cheaper than booking activities separately.
Our Top FAQ's
To enter Fiji, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining, a return ticket, and enough funds to cover your stay in the country. Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival, which allows you to stay in Fiji for up to four months. To obtain a visa on arrival, you’ll need to pay a fee of FJD$50 (about $25 USD). If you’re planning to stay in Fiji for longer than four months, you’ll need to apply for a longer-term visa in advance.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers to Fiji get vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid, as these diseases are commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water. It’s also a good idea to get vaccinated against hepatitis B and rabies, and to consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors. To protect yourself against mosquito-borne diseases, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, be aware of the risk of dengue fever.
When packing for a trip to Fiji, bring lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton and linen, as well as a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for protection from the sun. Other items to consider packing include a pair of water shoes, a raincoat or umbrella, an adapter for the local outlets, and a portable charger. In terms of things to do and see in Fiji, some top recommendations include visiting the capital city of Suva, taking a day trip to one of the smaller islands, exploring the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, visiting the Orchid Island Cultural Centre, diving and exploring the coral reefs, visiting the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, and hiking in one of the national parks.
What are some tips for staying safe and budget-conscious while traveling in Fiji?
To stay safe in Fiji, be aware of your surroundings, protect yourself from the sun, use caution when swimming, avoid scams, and respect local customs and laws. To save money while traveling in Fiji, consider staying in a homestay or vacation rental, eating local foods and cooking your own meals, using public transportation, looking for deals and discounts, and booking a package tour for activities like diving or snorkeling.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to travel to Fiji? ›
Fiji weather
The best time to Fiji for clear blue skies is from May through to September. October through to April make up the wet season which is also the time of year most at risk of cyclone. However, it is also when you're going to have the highest temperatures seen throughout the year.
The best ways to get around Fiji are by bus if you want to explore one of the archipelago's islands, or by ferry if you want to island hop. You can also get to other islands by plane, but this mode of transport is more expensive.
How many days in Fiji is enough? ›Travelers should plan to spend at least one week in Fiji to fully experience island life. Those seeking a beach vacation on the main island could visit for a quick five days.
What should I not miss in Fiji? ›- Visit the Navala Village.
- Relaxing at Savusavu - one of the best things to do in Fiji.
- Immerse yourself into Fiji-Indian culture.
- Go Snorkelling.
- Enjoy island-hopping in the Mamanucas and Yasawa islands.
- Take a river rafting trip.
- Attend Fijian meke dance night.
- Go sea-kayaking.
- Don't be shy. ...
- Don't visit a village on a Sunday. ...
- Don't walk around unannounced in a village. ...
- Don't break the dress code. ...
- Don't worry about the time. ...
- Don't touch another person's head.
Other Relevant Information. While the tropical cyclone season is between November to April, occasionally cyclones have formed in the region in October and May and rarely in September and June. Therefore, an out of season tropical cyclone activity cannot be ruled out.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Fiji? ›The tap water in Fiji isn't recommended for drinking, so stick to sealed bottled water. Avoiding tap water includes more than you might think, such as brushing your teeth with tap water, ice in drinks, ingesting water in the shower, and food that has been washed in tap water.
Can you wear shorts in Fiji? ›In resorts, it's acceptable to wear short shorts or walk around in a bikini. However, in villages and towns, respect the local customs by wearing more modest clothing.
Is there a dress code in Fiji? ›Women should cover their shoulders and all dresses or pants should cover the knees, and men will need to throw a t-shirt on.
Are US dollars accepted in Fiji? ›You will only be able to use Fiji Dollars in Fiji so suggest if you want cash you either exchange before you leave or when you arrive in Nadi. You will need to convert any currency into Fiji dollars for shopping so if you have US dollars you want to use then change them otherwise change your currency.
How much cash should I bring to Fiji? ›
DAILY BUDGET AND MISCELLANEOUS COSTS
As a general guide, you'll need around FJD$360 (AUD$226) per person per day in Fiji if you're on a budget. For a midrange trip, you could be looking at FJD$360-800 (AUD$226-$501). For a luxury-style trip, aim for at least FJD$800 (AUD$501) per day.
Fiji can be as expensive or budget-friendly as you choose. If you visit during the cheapest time (February and March), you can get great deals on hotels and flights. However, expect to spend between $4,000 and $10,000+ per person on a standard 7-day trip.
What is the cheapest month to go to Fiji? ›February, March, June, October and November is the cheapest time to visit Fiji as this is considered the low season and there are a fantastic range of off-peak deals to take advantage of.
What is the cheapest time of year to visit Fiji? ›February and March are the cheapest times to visit Fiji.
A lot of the resorts, activity services, and airlines offer better deals to attract more visitors during this time. Overall, the wet season in Fiji – from November to April – is cheaper than the peak dry season.
High season is considered to be January, November and December. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is February. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Fiji flight deals.
What is the hottest month in Fiji? ›The coolest months are July and August and the warmest months are January and February. Night time temperatures can drop down to 18°C to 20°C with daily highs around 30°C to 32°C. There are two distinct seasons in Fiji – the wet season between November and April, and the dry season between May and October.