Vanua Levu

The second largest of the Fiji islands, Vanua Levu is only a short flight away from Vanua Levu but manages to combine a feeling of remoteness and purity of Fijian culture, while still playing host to some of Fiji's finest resorts.

Map of Vanua Levu

Vanua Levu is the second largest island in Fiji. Similar to Viti Levu, it has a distinct dry and wet side. The north and western side is dry and dominated by the dry dusty town of Labasa, sugar cane farms and small Indian settlements. The southern coast of Vanua Levu to Savusavu is very scenic with lush rainforest and several large rivers, though few beaches. The rainforest around Savusavu on Vanua Levu, Northern Islands has several frequented trails to some excellent waterfalls. Tours also operate to Waisali Nature Reserve, a beautiful rainforest with trails about 40 minutes drive to the north of Savusavu. Most of the accommodation on Vanua Levu is around Savusavu Bay which is a favorite destination for sailors and scuba diving.

Popular Activities on Vanua Levu

Getting around downtown Savusavu couldn't be easier as it all centers around one main road. It could be the inspiration behind U2s 'Where the streets have no name' since the streets...have no name...

The town is the centre of all activity on the south of Vanua Levu and therefore has banks, ATMs, a post office and an internet outlet or two as well as a private health centre if you have picked up any nasty ailments that require attention. One of Savusavus main features is as a marina. There are two which are worth a stroll around and can act as one stop shops for all your tourist needs. You will often see groups of yachties hanging around in white shorts quaffing a cold beer as their vessels are moored nearby.

Kayaking is a popular distraction for tourists staying in or near Savusavu and range from short afternoon excursions to several days journeying, staying in local villages and soaking up the atmosphere. You can do this on a hiking tour also if you don't like the idea of paddle power. Both these types of tours can be arranged in Savusavu.

The Waisali Rainforest Reserve is about $20 by taxi from town and is a nice spot for a ramble through dense rainforest where you can marvel in the cooling spray of the waterfall. Ornithologists should head to the Tunuloa peninsula where winged delights include the rare and fabulous silk-tail.

Savusavu diving and cruising are both of course very popular activities.

There are also a variety of small places where you can buy a beer and get chatting to the locals. The marinas are normally popular evening hang-outs and are good for drinks by the water's edge. You will always find expats relaxing here for whom such an experience is a daily occurrence.

For a slightly more local flavour there is a big bar which you will recognise by the ghastly country and western music playing, where local farmers tend to congregate to play darts and pool and seemingly pretend to be from Texas for some reason.