Taveuni

Fiji's "Garden Island," with rainforest waterfalls and the 180° meridian marker; the soft corals of Rainbow Reef make it a world-class dive destination.

Taveuni is Fiji's third-largest island, lying southeast of Vanua Levu across the Somosomo Strait, and the 180° meridian passes through it. The whole island is volcanic, with a central ridge rising above 1,200 m; the east coast is rainy and densely forested, and Bouma National Heritage Park covers a large area, earning it the name "Garden Island." Itineraries usually use Matei at the northern tip (where the airport is) or Waiyevo and Somosomo on the west coast as a base: the northeast route takes in Tavoro Waterfalls and Waitabu Marine Park, all the way to the end of the Lavena Coastal Walk; the west route has the 180° meridian marker, Wairiki Church and the Waitavala natural water slide; at sea, go to Rainbow Reef and the Great White Wall to dive; if you are fit, hire a guide to climb Des Voeux Peak or hike to Lake Tagimaucia. May–October is the dry season, with the best conditions for hiking and diving; November–April is hot, humid and rainy, with tropical cyclone risk. From Nadi or Suva, a Fiji Airways small plane takes about 1–1.5 hours; you can also travel from Savusavu on Vanua Levu by road plus ferry. Most roads on the island are gravel, and buses are infrequent, so we recommend hiring a car with driver or renting a 4WD. Most village attractions close on Sundays; dress conservatively and do not wear a hat when entering villages. We suggest allowing 3–5 days.

Top sights

Where to eat

Itineraries