TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR FIJI

VISAS FOR FIJI

A visitor permit can be obtained on arrival; and no visa is required for stays of up to four months.  However, New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Fiji.

ON ARRIVAL
Bula! Expect a warm welcome.  It is not uncommon to be serenaded on guitar or ukulele by a band of smiling locals in floral shirts as you pass through immigration.

Nadi International Airport (NAN) - pronounced "Nan-di" is Fiji's main airport.  Handling 97% of the country's visitors, the gateway welcomes more than 1.2 million international passengers and over 450,000 domestic passengers annually.  Located on the western side of the main island, Viti Levu, it is an important regional hub for the South Pacific islands. Once you’ve passed the gates and you’re out the terminal, you’ll be eager to get your Fijian holiday started as soon as possible. There are several ways to get where you’re going. Nadi Airport runs a 24-hour shuttle services to most of Fiji’s major resorts and hotel areas. All bookings must be made in advance and can be done online. Taxis are also available when you exit the main terminal, and there are several rental car companies to choose from if you’re wanting to explore the landscape on your own clock. Your hotel may also offer an airport pick-up service; speak to them directly before you leave home.

Nausori Airport (SUV) is the second International Airport in Fiji, located about 23 km (approximately 35 minutes drive) from Fiji's capital city, Suva. Airlines operate domestic shuttles daily that will take you through to Nadi Airport to meet connecting international flights.  There are also 13 smaller airports on the outer islands catering for scenic tours and access to unique Fijian towns.  These are Labasa, Savusavu, Taveuni, Rotuma, Koro, Gau, Bureta, Vanuabalavu, Lakeba, Ono-i-Lau, Cicia, Moala and Kadavu.

GETTING AROUND

Getting around Fiji is cheap and easy.  The main island, Viti Levu has a reliable well networked bus service operating out of the towns. Travelling around the coastline by bus is affordable and with their large windows, offers a great way to take in the scenic countryside, and a great opportunity to chat with the locals. 

The 4-hour journey from Suva to Nadi on the main island costs around 50 FJD. ​Taxis can be easily booked at your hotel, either for a one-off trip between destinations or longer private tours. Pre-arranging a private driver for the duration of your stay can also be a convenient and comfortable way to get around. A taxi around Suva will cost no more than 10 FJD.​  

As Fiji is made of hundreds of islands, getting to certain destinations will involve a boat trip. There are plenty of ferries and tour boats travelling to the more popular spots, but if you wish to see some of the smaller islands you may need to charter a motorboat, and this can be a bit more expensive. Visible from the Nadi coastline, the Mamanucas Islands are blessed by zippy passenger catamarans offering enclosed air-conditioned seating on the lower decks for the sweatier days and stunning views from the upper decks.  Getting around the smaller outer islands requires a little more patience and usually involves a boat journey in a small, ten-passenger fibreglass boat.  But being further out from the hub of Nadi, these less commercialised, uninhabitate gems are worth the boat ride. No matter how you get around though, remember to be patient, relax and go with the flow. It’s all about embracing Fiji time!

BEST TIME TO VISIT 

Temperatures in Fiji remain consistent throughout the year. During the summer months, you’ll enjoy temperatures between 28C to 31C, while the winter months drop to a lovely 26C or 27C. While there’s never a bad time to visit Fiji, it’s good to bear in mind that November to April can bring with it severe storms, heavy rains, and the threat of cyclones. July through September is generally when the weather will be at its most dry and sunny, but it’s also peak season, particularly during school holiday periods, meaning resorts will be at their busiest.

WHERE TO GO

With 332 postcard perfect islands, Fiji begs the question of where to go? 106 of the islands are uninhabited, but that still leaves a lot of choice. Some of the most popular regions to visit are:
 
Denarau Island – looking for total comfort? This is where you want to go. Home to eight large luxury resorts, including the Hilton, Westin, and Sofitel, and a pristine 18-hole golf course, Denarau is for holidaymakers seeking pampering, relaxation, and luxury. There’s plenty to choose from in the way of eating, drinking, poolside fun, day spas, and entertainment. Plus, the Denarau Marina is the starting point for loads of day trips. It’s also less than 30 minutes from the airport.
 
Coral Coast – Located on the south of Fiji’s main island, the Coral Coast is a long stretch (almost 100km) of beaches, most of them neighboured by a huge coral reef. It features a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including many family-friendly resorts. While a popular tourist spot, it also provides people the chance to experience a bit more of the real Fiji, with surrounding villages welcoming all who visit.
 
The Mamanuca Islands – you know those postcard-worthy pics you dream up when you think of Fiji? You’re probably thinking about the Mamanuca Islands. They’re just a short boat ride from Nadi airport.
 
Pacific Harbour – Beqa and the Pacific Harbour is perfect for thrill-seekers keen for rugged adventures.

Suva – the words buzzing cosmopolitan may not spring to mind when you think of Fiji. But Suva, Fiji’s capital, offers exactly that, with its wide array of shopping, eating, entertainment and cultural attractions.  
 
For more information on where to go, check out the Fiji Tourism website.
 

MUST KNOW TIPS

“Fiji time” is a real thing and schedules are never fully locked in. Fiji time can be used to explain tour delays, cancelled boats, change of reservation plans, and more! Go with the flow and know that chilling out and just going with it is what makes Fiji so wonderful. Fiji is generally safe but it’s advised to avoid walking around at night beyond the well-lit ground of resorts. Religion is very important to most Fijians and Sundays are a day for church. Many shops will be closed or only open for a few hours. Load up on the repellent and sunscreen – the mozzies and sun can be as brutal as each other. If visiting Fijian villages respect their customs. Dress modestly, covering bare shoulders and legs, don’t touch people’s heads, take off your shoes before walking inside, and never wear a hat into a village as it’s considered an insult.

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