A guided tour around Bula Coffee HQ detailing how your morning brew goes from the tree to your cup while enjoying Fiji’s only 100% Fiji grown coffee.

Harvesting organic coffee beans from the remote highlands of Fiji since 2011, Bula Coffee is committed to sustainable business practices such as working directly with villages, supporting them to become organically certified and teaching locals the fine art of roasting coffee.

Proudly Fiji grown and Fiji made.

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You’ll get to experience visiting a traditional Fijian highland village, swim in a beautiful waterfall and go tubing down the river! It certainly makes for a great fun day out for everyone!

River Tubing Fiji

After arriving to the River Tubing Fiji base in Navua town by transfer, we headed 22km upstream along the Navua River in longboats (fun fact: Anaconda Part 2 was filmed here in the Navua River!). The journey was really pleasant and relaxing, going past beautiful green rainforest scenery along the way, which eventually turned into impressive deep gorges.

Along the ride we went past several waterfalls, as well as going through some gentle river rapids – these are the rapids you will be tubing down later!

We also passed several cows grazing next to the river bank, as well as the odd few local villagers by the river making rafts or relaxing along the banks.

Visiting A Traditional Fijian Village

After an hour going upstream, our first stop was to visit a traditional Fijian village along the bank of the Navua River in the Namosi Highlands. This is a fantastic opportunity to see and learn about traditional Fijian culture in a highland village.

When you visit a local village in Fiji you must not wear anything on your head (hat or sunglasses, as a mark of respect). Females must also wear a skirt or a sarong to cover their knees, so make sure you pack one with you. If you forget, you can wrap your towel around your waist.

I found the village visit so fascinating and our guide Peter explained a lot to us to give us a deeper insight into life there.

Fiji traditional village

In total there are seven villages here along the Navua River – the village we visited was the fifth village. These villages along the Navua River are all very remote, cut off from civilisation and can only be accessed by the river as there are no roads that lead to the villages!

A bamboo raft is the main form of transport for the people living here. If they need to head to town they will need to make a bamboo raft. That’s right – they need to make a bamboo raft and ride it all the way down the river (22km!).

The villagers will head to the town when they want to sell their produce they have grown in the village, and in turn they will also buy four basic staple items that they need that they don’t grow in the village – rice, sugar, salt and flour. Everything else they need they are able to grow at the village.

Not only do the villagers ride the bamboo raft to town with all their produce to sell, but what is even more impressive is that they walk all the way back home with the items they have bought in town. As the river runs downstream, it is too difficult for them to try and ride the raft back upstream back to their village so they leave the raft there and walk back! This will take them a whole day and night.

And it’s not just the adults in the village that have to travel far distances. Children as young as 5 years old must trek and swim for 2.5 hours to get to school, as their school is three villages away! Imagine having to swim to school! We were honestly amazed at the life these people live.

The village is self-sufficient, and examples of the types of year-round produce they grow here includes cassava, taro and kava (the photo below is the kava!). They also grow seasonal produce such as lettuce, watermelon and chestnuts, and go fishing and hunting for pigs.

As life in the village is very remote, they need to be self-sufficient and this refers to healthcare too. When someone in the village is sick they go to herbal medicine first as opposed to going straight to the doctor (which would involve taking a raft downstream and a lot of time and energy). Lots of herbs are grown here in the village that can be used to treat high blood pressure, stomach ache and stop cuts bleeding.

There is no network here in the village, and not all houses have electricity, although they do have running water. The houses are very modest here, made from bamboo – and you’ll even find a little church (the turquoise building at the top of the photo below!).

I was so happy to learn that a percentage of the River Tubing Fiji tour price goes towards supporting the village and paying for improvements for the village. Lately they just finished installing flush toilets for the residents here!

I loved how the local people in the village don’t go out of their way to put on anything special for the tourists when they visit – they are genuinely just going about their daily life when you arrive, which is great as you really get to see the local culture. When we visited we only saw one family – 3 generations of women in one house. All the males in the village were working on the farms and the children were at school.

It may of course be different when you visit – especially if you visit when the children aren’t at school! Perhaps you’ll see locals planting vegetables, weaving mats, preparing food or drying kava, it’s totally unpredictable which makes it even more exciting and authentic!

Out of all the villages along the Navua River this village is the smallest one. Most of the other villages have around 200-300 people whereas only 50 people live in this village – with 22 of them being children!

Sadly however the population here decreases every year as there is no secondary school in the area – there is only the primary school 3 villages away. Therefore the families have to move to the town when the children get older to continue the children’s education, and they only come back to the village on holidays, Christmas and weekends. Often they continue to live in the town or in the city and the children eventually settle there.

Cannibalism

Cannibalism was common in highland villages like this in Fiji up until the 1800s (it wasn’t common in the coastal areas of Fiji). In these particular highlands, one Missionary came over from England and brought Christianity with him. He lived with this hillside tribe for years, became great friends with them, and was the only white person they didn’t eat.

But one day however, the Missionary removed a comb from the Chief’s hair. As you aren’t allowed to touch anyone’s head or remove anything from their hair as the head area is deemed sacred in Fijian villages, the tribe ate this Missionary for lunch. So moral of the story – do not touch anyone’s head in Fiji! Of course you won’t get eaten now, as the introduction of Christianity in Fiji stopped cannibalism, but just be aware that it is still considered very rude to touch a Fijian person’s head if they come from a village.

Visiting the Waterfall

After visiting the local village we got back on the long boats and headed to the next stop: the waterfall!

We walked less than five minutes to reach the waterfall and when we got there it was so impressive – it was so high! It reminded me of the many waterfalls you can swim in in Australia.

We stayed at the waterfall for around 15 minutes for a swim – the water was really refreshing as it was such a hot day, and some of the locals were jumping into the pool from the cliffs above – I would be so scared!

We then stopped for lunch along the riverbank – the staff had prepared a tasty and healthy lunch for us.

Tubing Down Navua River

After lunch it was time for the final activity: tubing back down the river! With tubing, you just sit on the rubber ring, paddle with your hands and keep in the middle of the river. Keep your feet in the water to stabilise yourself – don’t have them out of the water. And you’ll often find that paddling facing backwards is easiest!

Several of the guides will tube with you, and just let them know beforehand if you’re not a confident swimmer so they can stay with you the whole time. There is also a longboat that follows behind the group, so you won’t get left behind! The staff were very fun but equally I could tell safety was a priority with them, which was really great to see.

Halfway through we had a break from paddling and just floated down the river in a big group as the guides sang some Fijian songs to us which was really lovely. Tubing isn’t particularly exhausting, and you only require a mild level of fitness to do it. But if you are tired to paddle you can just ask someone else to stick their feet under your tube and they can drag you along as they paddle. Towards the end about 5 of us were in one big train doing it!

The views whilst you are tubing down the river are stunning – this part of Fiji has around 2000-3000mm of rain a year: it is in the ‘wet’ side of Fiji so it is very green and makes for fantastic views!

The tubing lasted around 1 hour 15 minutes tubing 6km downstream. The rapids were gentle (well – nobody fell out of their tube!) and there were about 4 sets of rapids along the whole trail so there was plenty time to relax and just float down the river in your tube. The rapids were really fun to go through and made you go so fast!

Where Is River Tubing Fiji?

River Tubing Fiji is located about a 20 minute drive from Pacific Harbour, in the town of Navua.

How Long Is River Tubing Fiji?

All in all the total time we spent at the Navua River was just over 5 hours – from 10am to 3pm.

If your pickup is in Pacific Harbour the whole day will take around 6 hours (the start and finish point of the trip in Navua town is about a 20 minute drive from Pacific Harbour) – so from around 9.30am to 3.30pm.

If your pickup point is further away such as in Suva, further along the Coral Coast or over towards Natadola, Sigatoka or Nadi, your day will be longer. You will be advised of your pickup time after buying your tickets.

What To Wear For River Tubing Fiji?

It’s advisable to arrive with your swimwear on underneath your clothes so you don’t have to waste time at the beginning of the trip getting changed. Once you set off on the boats down the river there is nowhere to get changed so make sure you come dressed for tubing.

For the actual tubing part, you’ll just want to wear your swimming attire as you will get wet (at least on your bottom half anyway!) so you can leave all your belongings and clothes on the boat to keep them dry.

You are given a mandatory life jacket to wear for tubing. Feel free to keep a t-shirt or something on underneath if it is a bit cool or equally if it is very hot and you want some additional protection from the sun.

What Should I Bring For River Tubing Fiji?

Definitely bring suncream with you so you can put it on before the boat ride, and also reapply it before tubing. It was a really hot sunny day when we went tubing, and there is no shade when you are tubing so it’s really important to make sure you’re protected from the sun – even when it’s cloudy as you will still receive the sun’s rays.

We found the weather also changes quite quickly in Fiji, so even if it is cloudy before you set off tubing it might suddenly become very sunny so you’ll need to have your sunscreen on already as there is no way to put it on once you are tubing.

Bring a baseball cap or a similar hat that won’t blow off your head in the wind as you are on the boat (as it goes quite fast). It’s a long time you are outside and exposed to the sun, so you want to keep your head protected to avoid you getting sunstroke.

Drinks are provided in the lunch, but it’s also recommended to bring a bottle of water so you can keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

Bring a towel and a change of clothes so you can get dry and changed after the tubing. There are toilets at the start and end of the trip for you to get changed.

Bring a go-pro or a waterproof cover for your phone if you want to capture photos during the tubing and at the waterfall!

It’s also wise to bring water shoes if you have them, as the waterfall pool is rocky at the bottom so it can be a bit uncomfortable for bare feet. No worries if you don’t have water shoes, flip flops will work okay!

Ladies make sure to bring a skirt or sarong to cover your legs for the village visit.

It was very sunny when I visited, but if the weather isn’t looking great you might want to pack a wind jacket or rain jacket so you don’t get cold on the boat ride – especially after the tubing once you are wet.

Is River Tubing Fiji Suitable For Children?

River Tubing Fiji is suitable for children and families are welcomed.

Can I Do River Tubing Fiji If I Can’t Swim?

We had a couple of people in our group that couldn’t swim or weren’t confident swimmers. The guides would hold onto them for the whole time whilst tubing, and everyone is given life jackets to wear.

Why Choose River Tubing Fiji?

River Tubing Fiji is a locally owned family business so by booking with them you are helping support the local community. It’s not only the company and it’s local employees that you are helping, but you are also helping the village as some of your tour fee goes directly towards making improvements for the village.

All the staff at River Tubing Fiji were very professional and friendly. The whole day ran smoothly and was extremely well organised and I would definitely recommend it.

Is River Tubing Fiji Worth It?

Everyone on our trip had an absolutely great time and a very enjoyable day with River Tubing Fiji.

As the River Tubing Fiji trip encompasses culture, nature and adventure, this day trip definitely can appeal to anyone. Whether you’re young or old, I say River Tubing Fiji is definitely worth it and you should add it to your must-do day trips list when you’re in the Coral Coast and Pacific Harbour!

This post was written in exchange for a complimentary day tour with River Tubing Fiji. All views expressed however are my own.

Hi I’m Catrina and welcome to 24 Hours Layover! Having travelled to over 75 countries, lived in 3 different continents and worked as a Flight Attendant, I created this website full of useful information to help & inspire you to pursue your travel dreams and goals. I now make a living through passive income so if that’s something that also interests you, make sure to follow along! https://24hourslayover.com/author/xinchaovietnam/

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Our clientele range from the inexperienced “Greenhorn’s” through to the seasoned experienced anglers here to specifically chase Fiji’s vast species of Reef and Game Fishing.

MBFC have been running fishing specific boats out of their Resort in Namatakula since the Resort Operation began in 2006, and currently run two ‘Islander’ style Long Boats, namely Mango Princess and Charlotte Rose. Each boat is equipped with modern current gear; rods, reels, lures and everything else needed to enjoy the most out of either a 1/2 day, 3/4 day or Full days charter.

Our fishing crew are headed by local Navutulevu skipper Jone Setareki, accompanied by either his Son, Sai or 1st mate Mikey. All experienced, friendly and there to assist in anyway they can to make your day the most enjoyable it can be.

Fiji is well known for its game fishing scene. We service all of the major resorts along Fiji’s famous Coral Coast which stretches from the beginning of Natadola, through to Pacific Harbour. Transfers are available on application with one of our private vehicles.

Start out early morning and troll around the school of Skipjack and Yellow Fin Tuna, after which we have a go for the larger species like the Marlin, Wahoo, Mahimahi and if the weather take a turn for the worst we can troll in the protected reefs for Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, Queen Fish, Blue Trevally and the GT’s.

There is also a third vessel onsite; Eilidh Grace which specialises in Sunset Cruising and is the Coral Coast’s only known Glass Bottom Boat. Guests from all resorts along here are welcome to come and experience either of these options.

Included in 1/2 day are snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, 3/4 day has light lunch, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, or Full days charters includes full lunch, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Up to 7 passengers are able to accommodate each trip for the following prices if booked directly through Mango Bay:

1/2 Day   $1000.00 fjd          3/4 Day   $1400.00 fjd          Full Day  $1700.00 fjd

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Hot Glass Fiji has added a serious WOW factor to the growing art scene on the Coral Coast.

Who would have thought that amongst the typical tropical holiday activities of snorkelling, sea sport’s and sightseeing, you could have your first hands-on glass blowing experience in this stunning seaside setting?

Fiji’s one and only glass blowing studio, Hot Glass Fiji is located along Korotogo’s tranquil Sunset Strip.

Perched on the hillside, overlooking the sea, you will find the workshop and gallery of popular local artisan, Alice Hill.

Alice offers a range of short glass blowing and sandcasting experiences for beginners as well as longer half-day courses for those keen to get a little more adventurous.

Visitors are welcome, even if only to settle your glass blowing curiosity and to watch Alice and her trusty assistants in action, creating beautiful glass pieces for the gallery.

Glass blowing is a unique visual experience as the team gather, shape and colour the golden molten glass in one fluid process that is almost dance-like in its constant state of movement.

Inspired by the stunning colours of Fiji, distinctive pieces within the Hot Glass Fiji collection reflect the blues of the sea and sky, the ever changing sparkling waters of sandy lagoons, the lush tropical greenery, the vivid colours of fish, birds and flowers and the breathtaking beauty of Fiji’s sunsets.

Other collections include elements of Fiji’s cultural and traditional handicrafts -natural fibres such as magimagi rope, tape designs and coconut bark are beautifully incorporated to create a stylish addition to your home, and the perfect souvenir.

All of these and so much more are available for sale at the studio.

Wedding Gifts and Favours

Their beautifully crafted items make fantastic Wedding Gifts and Favours and are rapidly gaining in popularity with couples choosing to marry in Fiji.

Brides can even cast their own favours, delivered to your door in time for the big day!

Many stunning Hot Glass Fiji pieces can be viewed online in their e-brochure.

Be sure to ‘Like’ the Facebook page for photos, updates and news from the studio!

A visit to Hot Glass Fiji’s studio is fast becoming an unmissable part of any visit to the Coral Coast.

Click to view slideshow.

Hot Glass Fiji | Promote Your Page Too

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Interact with our creative staff whilst gaining knowledge on traditional art practices using local materials. 

The friendly Namana Staff are ever helpful to guide you through these fun and creative activities.

Sarong Painting

Sulus/sarongs are everyday island wear whilst in the tropics, and and our most popular class – Sarong Painting makes the perfect opportunity to make your own wearable art!

Tapa Printing

For a historical creative experience in Fijian culture and traditions, Tapa Printing is excellent value.

Using the very same technique and materials used hundreds of years ago, create tapa from masi (bark-cloth).

Pigments made from burnt ground nuts and tree sap, applied with natural ‘brushes’ onto beautifully textured bark-cloth.

Our Tapa Printing is a wonderful authentic fiji art experience offering you insight into our culture and traditions through art.

Jungle Jewelry

A favourite for kids, make your own island jewellery with coconut , coloured wood beads and shell.

Add fresh water pearls or mother-of- pearl for an extra special treat.

Fiji Weaving

Learn basic weaving techniques with natural fibres and make fish & flower mobiles.

Fiji Cards

Create your own stationary of greeting cards and book marks.

Work with traditional block print, lino-cuts and stencilling- all done Fiji Style with contemporary inks.

Art Activities

From Aug 12 2012

Sunday           

10.00 am-  Weaving– The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am

2.00 pm – Fiji Tapa-  The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am

Monday

10.00 am – Jungle Jewelry – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am

Tuesday

9 .00 am – Sarong Painting – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @10 & 11am

12.00 pm – Sarong Painting – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger

Wednesday

10.00 am – Tapa Printing– The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am 

Thursday

9.00 am – Sarong Painting  – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @ 10 & 11am

12.00pm – Sarong Painting  – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger

Friday

10.00 am – Jungle Jewelry – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am

Saturday

10.00 am – Fiji Tapa Art – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @ 11am

2.00 pm – Weaving – The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger; also @11 am 

The Art Cart

Outrigger On The Lagoon Resort

Ph: 6509942/ 9944004/ 7744004

The Art Cart Level 7, Outrigger – Extension 8942

namana@connect.com.fj

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The Coral Coast is known for its diving and Diveaway Fiji is the dive operator of choice along the Coast. Since 2003 our dive boats have been taking divers to an array of fantastic dive sites along the Coral Coast’s long fringing reefs. The boats operate from our bases at the Fiji Hideaway and Mango Bay Resorts.

We also have a dive shop at the Outrigger on the Lagoon Resort and we are the dive operator of choice for Beachouse, Bedarra Beach Inn and the boutique resorts, backpackers and villas of Maui Bay and Korotogo.

Diveaway is a small, friendly dive op who enjoy sharing our beautiful divesites from complete beginners to experienced divers who often return to visit us time and again.

We offer PADI dive courses from Open Water Diver to DM.

We also offer a Free Scuba Lesson in the pool Monday to Saturday for guests who have never tried diving, if you enjoy it you can then book in for a Discover Scuba Dive and dive under the direct supervision of our instructor.

Dive groups are deliberately kept small and as there are no other dive boats operating on our sites there is never a crowd underwater to spoil your view – we see fish not bubbles!

Topography along the Coral Coast is varied and interesting. It can get very deep very quickly here, so we are lucky enough to have a variety of sites from dramatic wall dives and coral covered reef slopes through to adrenalin buzzing drift dives.

Encounters with turtles, sharks, rays, circling vortexes of barracuda are frequent, and of course we always have the backdrop of hard and soft corals, giant gorgonian fans and colourful waving feather stars and the neverending array of tropical reef fish, moray eels, nudibranchs and flatworms – an underwater photographer’s paradise.

Amongst the many things that attract divers to the Coral Coast is our incredibly easy access to all our dive sites.

At Taqage the furthest boat ride is just over 10 minutes and the closest has been done in under 20 seconds – possibly the shortest boat ride to a dive site anywhere!

This enables us to offer the deeply civilised option of a morning two tank dive returning to the Fiji Hideaway in between the dives for a restoring cup of tea or even a touch of breakfast.

We also get back from the second dive before noon, giving you the rest of the day to do all those relaxing holiday things that you can’t do bobbing around on a boat.

From Mango Bay the boat zooms straight off from the beach directly in front of the dive shop, to divesites dotted in the channels and reefs a short boat ride away. Here too we usually return to the resort between dives

Diveaway Fiji would love to show you the fabulous underwater life of the Coral Coast, For a little taster, have a look at our website or come and make friends with us on facebook so we can keep you up to speed with who’s been here, where we are diving and what we are seeing at the moment – it’s great to see our guests underwater photos here as well!

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This authentic experience will allow you to learn all about Fijian history and provide you with an unrivalled cultural experience.

The Safari

Your adventure begins from the coastal town of Sigatoka.

Here you will be provided with your complimentary bottle of water, Safari passport which includes discount vouchers for Tappoos Fiji Market, Koko’s Bar Fiji and Natadola Golf Course and even a complimentary Safari sulu for all the women.

As you depart the town area you will be captivated by the unrivalled beauty of the Sigatoka Valley or as it is otherwise know “The Salad Bowl of Fiji”. See for yourselves where Fiji’s delicious fruit and vegetables are grown.

Your Mini-Coach driver will provide you with interesting information about the province you are visiting and make your 10 mile journey inland as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Upon arrival at the valley departure point, you are welcomed and given life jackets for the impending safari adventure.

Safety drills are provided to all, the chief is appointed and you’re off to discover the heart and soul of Fiji.

Your boat captain will provide an insightful commentary on the history of Fiji, the region’s cannibal past which includes the last recorded act of cannibalism towards a European; you will hear how the tribe survived till the modern day and also hear firsthand the oral history of the Fiji Islands and learn more about the feared kaicolo (mountain people).

As you venture upriver, you will be left in awe by the amazing natural scenery which will have you reaching for your camera (or iPhone) capturing moments that will take your breath away. Waving to the plethora of locals going about their daily lives, you will feel like an early explorer as you navigate your way up Fiji’s longest river.

Then after some 40 minutes on the river you will arrive at your designated village. Sigatoka River Safari is the only tour in Fiji which visits a different village each day of the week, to ensure all our guests enjoy life in an authentic Fijian koro (village).

Arriving at your designed village you will be greeted by your village guide who will welcome you like long lost family and assist you with access to your village.

One of the highlights of your Safari experience is being able to partake in Fijian village life which includes following village protocol such as all ladies of the tour party, as they will be requested to wear the complimentary Safari sulu (sarong) provided and all guests wearing hats will be asked to remove them when within the village boundary.

Your village guide will walk you to the community hall to present your “sevusevu” or kava with your designated tour chief receiving the first bowl of kava…BULA!!

Once the formalities are over, you are now part of the village. You will be shown around the village and meet the beautiful Fijian people on their terms, seeing firsthand how they really live. From there you will join the community in a Fijian lunch prepared by the women, tasting food and fruits grown in the farm nearby. The Safari tour is all about giving your five senses (seeing, hearing, feeling, tasting, smelling) a truly Fijian experience.

Your time with your new friends will fly by as you enjoy their Fijian hospitality which includes dancing and singing. After a memorable two hours in the village it is time to say good-bye.

The farewell song of Isa Lei is sung to you and for some tears will flow, but you will leave knowing you have made new friends and memories that will last a life time. You will soon agree that your hearts have been warmed, your soul has been touch and that Sigatoka River Safari is “Simply Unforgettable”

History

Sigatoka River Safari started as a result of a then 13 year old Australian, by the name of Jay Whyte who first visited Fiji in 1991, he met his friend Pita Matasau who introduced him to the real Fiji. Pita took Jay & his family high into the Fijian interior to his village of Draiba. It was from this unique, authentic experience that Jay decided other people should discover the Fijian interior.

A holiday to New Zealand in 1992, saw Jay and his family enjoying a scenic jet boat ride; which created a spark in Jay’s mind, combining two experiences into one!

Coming back to Fiji to start his dream in 2006, Jay is always happy to share his passion and ensure that you too experience a “Simply Unforgettable” adventure into the heart of Fiji.

Training

All of Sigatoka River Safari’s jet boat captains were trained by Neil Ross, a pioneer in jet boating in New Zealand with over 25 years of experience in the industry.

The captains including Fiji’s first female Jet Boat Captain who were trained in New Zealand and Fiji and regularly undergo training and also take time to participate in some of New Zealand’s Jet Boating Marathons.

Community Work

Our goal at Sigatoka River Safari is not to change the way villagers live but to help improve the villagers’ living standards. This is why for every visitor into the village, the company contributes directly to the village, and this means these monies go entirely to these remote villages and are used by them in their various village projects.

Safari team

Our team will look after you and you will feel like family from the first moment you connect with us. Majority from the Safari team are from the province of Navosa and Nadroga and take great pride in sharing the beauty and stories of the provinces and the history of Fiji.

We are here to assist you so please do not hesitate to reach out to us at any time should you need any assistance at any time during the tour… from taking your pictures to holding your handbag!

View our online brochure

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Tavuni Hill Fort is about 4 km west from Sigatoka on the top of a hill on a small peninsula just past Naroro village, whose people are the guardians of this once fortified village.

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They are the product of erosion in the coastal hinterland and coastal dune forming processes. The extensive dune system covers an area of 650 hectares and comprises a series of parabolic sand dunes of various ages and activities.

The dunes range from around 20-60m tall. The dunes have been forming over millions of years and archaeological excavations here have uncovered pottery more than 2600 years old, as well as one of the largest burial sites in the Pacific.

Evidence of the past is clearly visible throughout the dune system as pottery scatters, stone tools, human remains and other archaeological relics continue to be uncovered by natural processes. In 1999 it was proposed as a World Heritage Site but has not been accepted so far. UNESCO World Heritage Centre – tentative list.

In a country blessed with an abundance of scenic beauty, the Sigatoka Sand Dunes stand out as one of the more unique wonders of Fiji.

In July 1989, the dunes were designated as Fiji’s first National Park under the management of the National Trust of Fiji.

This distinct feature covers an area of 650 hectares and offers a rich combination of geomorphological, ecological, cultural and aesthetical attributes.

The National Park is of great importance for educational and recreational use and is a milestone in Fiji’s drive for environment conservation.

The dunes contain a diverse mixture of endemic and introduced plant species. The National Park also plays host to 22 species of bird, eight of which are endemic to Fiji, including the Fiji Bush Warbler,Fiji Goshawk, Orange-breasted Mycenaean, Skinks, Lizards, Geckos and Fruit bats find refuge in the park’s diverse habitats.

La pita History

The Sigatoka Sand Dunes are famous for their rich archaeological history. The first significant clues to man’s arrival in fiji were discovered at the Park in the late 1980’s when a team of archaeologists uncovered an ancient burial site. to date over 50 individuals have be excavated and their arrival has been dated to approximately 2600 years ago. Scatters of pottery shards and other cultural materials found within the dunes have led experts to believe that these early inhabitants are of Lapita origin. Lapita takes its name from an archaeological site in New caledonia where similar pottery was first discovered.

The Sand Dunes have produced the largest collection of complete and near complete Lapita pots from the Pacific region. Today evidence of the past is clearly visible throughout the dunes system as stone tools; human remains and pottery continue to be uncovered by natural processes. Many unearthed artifacts are on display at the Fiji Museum in Suva.

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Sport Fishing Fiji has such a place and we would love the opportunity to share it with you.

Sport Fishing Fiji has been in operation since 1999 within Fiji. Our experienced, friendly, and helpful crew know where to find the fish.

Come aboard our off shore game fishing boat, ‘Mango Princess’ which is a 28ft Islander center console, powered by 200hp Yamaha 4 stroke outboards and cruises at 25 knots.

‘Mango Princess’ comfortably fits 6 anglers and is used for live baiting around the reef, light trolling, GT popping or casting lures in the mangroves. She is equipped with VHF, GPS, fish finder, rocket launchers, out riggers and all other safety equipment. We only use the best stand up fishing tackle, and all our rods are Shimano with TLD 20’s, 30’s and 50’s.

What makes our fishing experience special is that we have so many different within a 15 minute run. There is big game fish, the reef, mangrove and excellent bottom fishing.

The crew are very flexible and will vary their techniques on any given day, to suit the weather and fishing conditions.

Our goal on every trip, is to put our anglers onto as many fish as possible. Furthermore we can accommodation everyone from serious IGFA tournament anglers to families and beginners.

Game Fishing

Fiji is well known for its game fishing scene. The warm waters, the 1,000 metre drop offs and the amazing reef systems. These factors attract the likes of:

• Blue, Black & Stripped Marlin
• Yellowfin Tuna
• Sailfish
• Spanish Mackerel
• Wahoo
• Mahi Mahi
• Skipjack Tuna

A typical game fishing trip with Sport Fishing Fiji would start out early morning and troll around the schools of skipjack and yellowfin tuna. After which we would then troll for the larger species like the marlin, wahoo, mahi mahi and yellowfin.

If the weather takes a turn for the worst, you can troll in the protected reefs for Spanish mackerel, tuna, barracuda, queenfish, blue fin trevally and the giant trevally.

Reef Fishing

Giant Trevally’s are universally known as the toughest fighting fish, pound for pound, in the world. The reef systems in Fiji host some of the world’s biggest Giant Trevally’s.

We are lucky enough to have these reefs right on our doorstep. The best method to catch these back breakers is to cast a “popper” on top of the reefs and wind back in, making sure the popper skips along the surface, mimicking a wounded baitfish.

Spanish Mackerel are also found in abundance along our reef system. These make for excellent sport fish on light tackle.

The reef systems are alive with baitfish attracting the larger species. Troll or bottom fish for giant trevally, Spanish mackerel, cod, snapper, emperor, sweet lip or coral trout.

Fishing Seasons:

Species Best Months

• Black Marlin July – November
• Blue Marlin March – August
• Striped Marlin June – August
• Sailfish All Year
• Wahoo June – August
• Mahi Mahi All Year
• Barracuda October – March
• Skipjack Tuna All Year
• Yellowfin Tuna May – July
• Giant Trevallys October – March
• Dog Tooth Tuna June – October

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring?

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hats
• Light Jacket
• Sense of adventure

Sport Fishing Fiji’s Fish Policy

Guests can take back what they themselves can eat for dinner. Our crew will be glad to fillet your catch for you.

Chartering the Boat

All our trips are based on boat charters. To make the trip more cost effective, bring along a few friends with you so that you can split the cost – maximum of 6 anglers. If you are the only person interested in sport fishing, we will try our best to find a few more additional people for you to share with.

Please bear in mind that it cannot always be guaranteed that we can find additional people, so if you are on a tight schedule, there is a possibility that the trip might not happen on the day you wanted to go fishing.

Do I need to bring tackle?

On all of our trips we provide tackle, bait and ice. However, if you have a favourite lure or rod you would like to bring, that is fine.

What if we don’t catch any fish?

Rules by the laws of nature, catching fish cannot always be guaranteed. Our crew will certainly try their best to ensure that you have every opportunity to catch that record fish. What customers are paying for is the experience of going out on the tropical Pacific Ocean, camaraderie with the crew and fuel costs.

Come Sport Fishing with Mango Bay Resort!

For more information, please contact us on +679 653 0069 or info@mangobayresortfiji.com

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The only breeding center for endangered Fijian wildlife

The only Free Hands-on Environmental Education center for Fiji’s school children

The park is exclusively funded by gate receipts.

Our Awards

Kula Eco Park is a multiple award winning tourist attraction.

It has won more Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards than any other property in Fiji.

Kula Eco Park is the proud holders of the ’99, ’02, ’03, ’05, ’06, 07 Excellence in Tourism Award & 2008 Best Fiji Experience Award.

Our Displays

Set in a valley floor threaded by a meandering natural stream, Kula Eco Park is home to several native birds and reptiles.

Guests enjoy the rare chance to meet and photograph Fiji’s wildlife, plus get the chance to hold and take pictures of some of the rarest animals in the world.

Wander the wooden walkways and bridges that crisscross the valley floor and see Fiji’s unique plants and animals in beautiful surrounding.

Walk through the parrot house; visit the iguanas, fruit bats and turtles & marine displays with live corals.

Endangered Species Breeding

Kula Eco Park is the world’s biggest captive breeding center for Fiji’s rare crested iguana and Ground Frogs.

Current breeding projects include the extremely rare Monuriki Crested Iguana.

Experts believe that there are less than 30 adults of these genetically unique iguanas left in the wild today.

Kula Eco Park, working under a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Trust for Fiji and the Land Owners of Monuriki Island has, as part of its captive breeding and head start program, bred 15 specimens in captivity in just two years. 8 more eggs are being artificially incubated.

The incubation of the eggs takes anywhere from seven to nine months.

Most of the captive bred iguanas will be returned home by 2015 to help repopulated the island.

Monuriki Crested Iguana is genetically unique and listed as Critically Endangered .

Fiji Crested Iguana eggs are artificially incubated at Kula Eco Park Lab. Incubation takes from 7 to nine months.

Education Programme

Kula Eco Park, in its effort to help spread conservation awareness amongst the local community, is operating a free hands-on environmental education program for Fiji’s school children.

This program is available to all Fiji primary schools and is specially targeted at children from classes 6 to 8.

Only one class is held on any given day.

Through a sponsorship program, the park is able to pay either full or part of the transport costs for the children coming to the education class since many parents cannot afford the expense.

Started in 1998, over 9,500 children have been through this education program.

Thank you to our visitors, who help sponsor the transport cost. Without your help this program would not be possible.

Your visit helps support the endangered Species Breeding program and the free environmental education classes provided by the park for Fiji’s school children.

Come Visit Kula Eco Park

Bring your camera and take a walk on the wild side to help preserve wild Fiji.

Explore more than half a kilometer of Fiji’s virgin Coastal Rain forest, walking on an elevated boardwalk, learning about the traditional, medicinal and cultural uses of our plants and shrubs and other forest dwelling inhabitants.

Kula Eco Park – Fiji’s Only Wildlife Park

Kula Eco Park works in cooperation with The National Trust for Fiji, The Endangered Species Recovery Council of San Diego, The Parks Board of New South Wales, Australia, is a Full Institutional Member of The Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks & Aquaria, an Honorary Associate of the Royal Zoological Society of South Australia.

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This journey of discovery rich in Fijian history enables you to see first-hand Fiji’s largest cave system Naihehe Cave which was home to the Nabuavatu clan during tribal warfare days.

You will see first-hand where they hid from their enemies and how they used this cave system to defend themselves right up until the end of tribal war in Fiji which is just over a hundred years ago.

Your journey from Sigatoka Town begins with a 10 mile excursion in your off road cave safari mini coach. This short journey inland allows you to see the people of Sigatoka Valley going about their daily lives including children going to school, people working the land and many more who are simply on Fiji time.

Upon arrival at the departure point, you will be transported across the mighty Sigatoka River to meet your off road vehicle. Here you will be given a short safety briefing before your off road adventure begins.

You will meander your way deep into the interior. You will pass through numerous Fijian villages giving you a brief insight into Fijian village life. Your off road guides will stop at several amazing locations providing you with history of the region, history of Fiji and also allowing you to capture the moment on your cameras, images that have to seen to believe.

After some 45 minutes on travelling to your destination you arrive at Fiji’s largest cave system. You will be greeted by the Bete (priest) the traditional protector of the Naihehe Cave.

Ladies are required to wear their complimentary off road sulu/sarong so that they can partake in the traditional kava ceremony.

Your driver/ guide will present to the Bete your sevusevu (kava) asking for permission to enter the sacred cave. Your group chief will

receive the first bowl of kava on behalf of the group. From there you will walk to the cave entrance where you are provided with your

headlights and explained how you will enter the cave system which includes the ‘pregnancy gap’.

Once inside the main chamber you will be amazed at the size and the history of this natural wonder. The bête will share with you oral legends that were told to him by his father and his father’s father who was a direct living connection to the tribal warfare days. Located within the cave system is a cannibal oven, priest chamber and a chiefly platform.

See More Pics of Off Road Cave Safari here…

The off road cave safari offers you insight of a spectacular chapter into Fijian history but will leave you happy and grateful that the cannibalism days are long gone. After exploring the caves, you can indulge in a sumptuous Fijian BBQ lunch prepared in our purpose built BBQ area overlooking a stunning swimming hole where guests are free to take a dip.

As with all great adventures there comes a time to say goodbye and you hop aboard your off road vehicle to head home. This Homewood passage enables you to reminisce on all that you have experienced on ‘The road less travelled’

Your off road adventure will last 4.5 hours but we are sure that this half day expedition will have given you a true glimpse of Fiji as it was and as it is.

History of the Naihehe Cave

The name of the cave says it all… Naihehe means ‘a place to get lost’. Naihehe Cave was home to the ‘Sautabu’ people during Fiji’s tribal warfare days.

During the tribal warfare days, the cave was where the people of the tribe would retreat to and hide from their enemies. Due to the natural fortress characteristics of the Naihehe cave which prevented attackers entering on masse, the clan were able to successfully defend themselves from many enemies over centuries.
It is known by the people, that whomever wishes to enter the cave must seek the permission of the Priest (Bete), as without consultation of the Bete, legend has it you will automatically become stuck if you enter the cave.

Once inside the cave, you will find a main large chamber, which once held a secret access to the top, accessible with the help of the wild vines. The Tribe never worried about their food source. If they were hiding up in the cave for a long time, they had freshwater prawns and fish. At the top of the Naihehe Cave accessible by their secret entrance was yams, fruits and other root crops.

When missionaries first arrived in Nadroga, Fiji, the paramount Chief of Nadroga who is known as ‘NA KALEVU’ was the first to convert to Christianity, at which point he commanded all his people to become Christians. The people of the

interior reluctantly converte

d to this new religion, due to their traditional links with the Ka Levu tribe and the people of Sautabu.

During the early colonial times, there were only twelve chiefly titles in Fiji. These same twelve chiefs were the ones who signed the ‘Deed of Cession’, handing over their lands to the King of England. It was

from this relationship with England that Ratu Cakobau was invited to visit England, transiting through Queensland, Australia he caught measles.

Upon his return to Fiji, the measles epidemic soon took hold, spreading so quickly and wiping out one third of Fiji’s then population, estimated at 200 000 people. The tribe of Naqalimare who attempted to cure their sick with traditional medicines and practices, soon turned away from Christianity as they believed this new sickness was punishment by their ancestral gods for practicing the Christian faith.

The paramount Chief heard this news about the tribe of Naqalimare and was disappointed. The Kalevu sent men from his tribe to fight against the people who turned their backs on Christianity. When the coastal warriors arrived in the area of Naqalimare, they soon discovered the people were using the cave as a fortress, so they could not fight hand to hand combat, this strategy saw them successfully repel the war party.

The coastal people went back and informed the Ka Levu who with the assistance of the colonial people, grew his forces and fifty colonial soldiers with guns headed back into the Sigatoka valley.

The war party from the Coast came up with a clever idea of setting fire at the entrance of the cave. This strategy worked immediately as the smoke inundated the people inside the cave causing them to suffocate, many began to flee the cave and some tried using the secret access on top.

Unfortunately, they were surrounded by coastal and colonial people with guns. Shots were fired, which killed their chief in the attack. However before his death, he instructed his tribe to surrender to the coastal people and upon this it could be claimed that Fiji was now truly a Christian state.

Off Road Cave Safari Team

Our off road cave safari team will take care of you from the minute you arrive making you feel like part of the family.

With warm smiles and the Fiji hospitality we will help you with any assistance you may need.

Feel free to contact us if you need assistance at any time during the expedition.

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Mango Surf School is the ideal place to learn to surf, we offer an amazing all inclusive day out on the Coral Coast where you can meet new friends, and enjoy the best of Fiji’s sun, surf and sand culture.

The Mango Surf School takes place at one of Fiji’s amazing surf breaks, Natadaola.

It has a beautiful white sandy beach with shore and beach breaks which are perfect for novice surfers to learn to surf in safe surroundings, under experienced supervision.

This unique natural location is one of Fiji’s earliest recorded pre-historic sites.

Mango Surf School operates daily pick ups from Mango Bay Resort and nearby resorts, and offers personalized surf lessons in a friendly, safe and fun environment.

Learn to surf or perfect your skills on uncrowded waves plus learn about wave selection, paddling, stand up techniques and ocean safety.

Your all day surf school experience includes 2 lessons with a qualified instructor, packed lunch, life jackets/rash vests and surf boards.

If you are staying at Mango Bay Resort transfers are also include. If you are staying at another resort on the Coral Coast, we can easily arrange for pick up and drop off at additional cost.

For more information contact Mango Surf School on +679 653 0069 or email us on info@mangobayresortfiji.com

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One of two Cultural Centres on Viti Levu, it was officially opened in January 2002 by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Heritage Hon. Konisi Yabaki

The Kalevu Cultural Centre provides a glimpse into the way of life in a traditional Fijian village which has been created to be as authentic as possible.

Each Bure is set up differently so you can learn all about the Fijian History, Culture and Traditions including Pottery and Tapa Cloth demonstrations and a display of the most gruesome weapons that were used by the Fijian Warriors once upon a time.

There are various ways to enjoy what the Kalevu Cultural Centre has on offer:-

Kalevu Cultural Centre Walk in Tour

Visitors are more than welcome to just call in to The Kalevu Cultural Centre and browse through the authentic Village and Bure’’s which are surrounded by lush scenic grounds and water features and enjoy lunch and refreshments at the Gecko’s Resort Restaurant.

Kalevu Cultural Centre One Hour Guided Cultural Tour

You can participate in an hour long guided tour with one of our knowledgeable Local Fijian Guides Lapani or Samu; they will walk you through the authentic Village providing you with all the information on Fijian History, Culture and Traditions and provide the answers to all your questions.

Upon request you can participate in a Kava Ceremony. The tour is both fun and informative and is recommended to all age groups. Booking the tour is advisable and the charge is $20.00 Fijian Dollars per person.

Kalevu Cultural Centre Tour, Lovo Lunch and Polynesian Dance and Fire Show

Large bookings of fifteen people or more are welcome and on arrival would be greeted by Traditional Warriors before participating in the guided tour as above with the addition of the local villagers creating the real village experience including demonstrations on how they make the pottery and Tapa Cloth.

Next a Fijian Lovo Buffet Lunch would then be served (which is a form of Fijian cooking involving a hole in the ground with fire wood, coconut husk as the heat source and rocks as the heat material) accompanied with Fresh Salads and Cool Tropical Fruits for dessert.

The event will then proceed with a spectacular traditional Polynesian Dance and Fire Show presented by the local villagers which includes dances from the Islands of the South Pacific concluding with the spectacular Samoan Fire Dance. These events do need to be arranged in advance and are $129.00 Fijian Dollars per person.

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