Central Division, Fiji Travel Guide

Discover Central Division, Fiji: A Tropical Haven Blending Cultural Heritage with Stunning Natural Landscapes, from Bustling Suva to Pristine Beaches and Rainforests.

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Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, the Central Division of Fiji is a region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This area is home to the bustling capital city of Suva, which is the largest urban center in Fiji. Suva is a vibrant city with a mix of colonial architecture and modern developments, offering visitors a unique experience of Fijian culture and history. Wander through the streets and discover a variety of restaurants, shops, and markets where you can try local delicacies and purchase handmade crafts. Beyond the city life, the Central Division boasts stunning natural landscapes including lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and cascading waterfalls. The Colo-i-Suva Forest Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering walking trails, natural pools, and a chance to see Fiji's unique flora and fauna. For a more relaxed experience, head to the beautiful beaches of the Coral Coast, where you can enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving in the crystal-clear waters. The Central Division is also rich in cultural heritage. Visit the Fiji Museum in Suva to learn about the country's history and indigenous culture. Participate in a traditional kava ceremony or attend a local festival to experience the warm hospitality and vibrant traditions of the Fijian people. Whether you're an adventure seeker or looking for a peaceful retreat, the Central Division of Fiji has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Central Division.

Visit the Suva Municipal Market early in the morning for the freshest produce and a lively atmosphere.
Carry insect repellent when hiking in the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park to protect against mosquitoes.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites.
Try the traditional Fijian dish, Kokoda, made from raw fish marinated in coconut milk, at a local restaurant.
Use local transport, like buses and taxis, for an authentic and cost-effective way to explore the area.

Top City Travel Guides in Central Division

The cities of Central Division, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Suva

Levuka

Rakiraki

Nausori

Destinations in Central Division

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Beqa Island

Coral Coast

Explore Central Division: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Aqua-Trek Beqa Dive Center

Dive into adventure with Aqua-Trek Beqa: Experience thrilling shark encounters and explore vibrant coral reefs in Fiji's Beqa Lagoon.

4.6

Suva Municipal Market

Experience the vibrant heart of Fiji at Suva Municipal Market: fresh produce, local crafts, and a taste of Fijian culture.

4.0

Albert Park

Discover Albert Park in Suva, Fiji: A historic park offering lush greenery, cultural events, and a glimpse into Fiji's rich past.

4.4

Colo-I-Suva Forest Park

Escape to Fiji's lush rainforest: Hike, swim, and discover unique birdlife at Colo-I-Suva Forest Park, a serene oasis near Suva.

4.2

Best landmarks in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Damodar City

Discover the lively shopping, dining, and entertainment scene at Damodar City, Suva's premier shopping mall for tourists seeking a local experience.

4.2

Colo-I-Suva Forest Park

Explore the lush wilderness of Colo-I-Suva Forest Park, Fiji's serene national park offering trails, waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife.

4.2

MHCC

Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experiences at MHCC, Suva's premier shopping mall, where culture meets modernity in the heart of Fiji.

3.9

TappooCity Suva

Explore TappooCity Suva, Fiji's vibrant shopping mall offering a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

4.2

Best restaurants in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Damodar City

Explore Damodar City in Suva: A vibrant shopping haven with diverse retail options, delicious dining experiences, and captivating entertainment.

4.2

Colo-I-Suva Forest Park

Explore Colo-I-Suva Forest Park: A Lush National Park in Fiji Offering Scenic Trails, Waterfalls, and Unique Wildlife Experiences.

4.2

MHCC

Discover shopping bliss at MHCC Shopping Mall in Suva—your gateway to Fijian culture with diverse shops and delicious dining options.

3.9

TappooCity Suva

Discover TappooCity Suva: Your ultimate shopping destination in Fiji’s vibrant capital with diverse shops and delightful dining experiences.

4.2

Best bars in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Grand Pacific Hotel

Experience luxury and history at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Fiji, where elegance meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.3

Novotel Suva Lami Bay

Discover tranquility at Novotel Suva Lami Bay, where luxury meets the breathtaking beauty of Fiji's coastlines.

4.1

Tanoa Plaza Hotel

Experience comfort and hospitality at Tanoa Plaza Hotel, your gateway to exploring Suva's vibrant culture and attractions.

4.1

Paradiso-bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Suva at Paradiso-bar, where delicious pizzas and hearty breakfasts await in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Novotel Suva Lami Bay

Discover the beauty of Fiji at Novotel Suva Lami Bay, where comfort meets stunning scenery for an unforgettable stay.

4.1

Quest Suva

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Quest Suva, your ideal home away from home in Fiji's capital.

4.4

DownUnder Pub

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Suva at DownUnder Pub, where great music and drinks create unforgettable memories.

4.1

Fiji Club

Dive into Suva's nightlife at Fiji Club, a vibrant hub for music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment experiences.

4.0

Best shops in Central Division

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Damodar City

Experience the bustling energy of Damodar City in Suva, Fiji, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable visit.

4.2

MHCC

Explore Suva's MHCC Shopping Mall: A vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, delicious dining, and exciting entertainment for every traveler.

3.9

TappooCity Suva

Explore TappooCity Suva, a vibrant shopping haven in Fiji's capital, where local culture meets global brands in an unforgettable retail experience.

4.2

Suva Municipal Market

Discover the heart of Suva at the Municipal Market, where vibrant culture meets local flavors in an unforgettable shopping experience.

4.0

Explore Central Division on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Central Division, mapped for you.

Central Division Essentials

The Central Division in Fiji is accessible primarily through Nausori International Airport, located near Suva, the capital city. Major international flights connect from Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific nations. From Nausori Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to various parts of the Central Division. Alternatively, travelers can arrive via Nadi International Airport and take a domestic flight to Suva or opt for a longer but scenic drive across Viti Levu island.
Transportation within Central Division is varied. Buses are the most common and economical mode of transport, with frequent services connecting Suva to other towns and villages. Taxis are readily available and can be hired for short trips or daily excursions. For a more flexible travel experience, car rentals are available in Suva. Additionally, minivans (known locally as 'carriers') offer a quicker but slightly more expensive alternative to buses. Ferries and boats are used for inter-island travel.
The official currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in urban areas like Suva. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to smaller towns and villages. ATMs are available in Suva and other major towns, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before venturing into more remote areas.
Central Division is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Suva has some areas with higher crime rates, particularly at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and be cautious in crowded places where pickpocketing can occur. Keep your valuables secure and be wary of unsolicited offers of assistance. It's advisable to stay informed about local news and follow any travel advisories.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Suva has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, which is the largest in the region. Pharmacies are also available in urban areas. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation handy.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a religious site. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bula!' (hello). A handshake is a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Central Division like a local, visit the Suva Municipal Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Fijian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a traditional Fijian ceremony, such as a kava ceremony, which offers insight into local customs. For a unique experience, explore the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, which offers beautiful hiking trails and natural swimming pools.

When is the best time to visit Central Division?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Central Division

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Central Division. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBula
  [boo-lah]
- GoodbyeMoce
  [mo-theh]
- YesIo
  [ee-oh]
- NoSevusevu
  [seh-voo-seh-voo]
- Please/You're welcomeVinaka
  [vee-nah-kah]
- Thank youVinaka vakalevu
  [vee-nah-kah vah-kah-leh-voo]
- Excuse me/SorryTama na
  [tah-mah nah]
- How are you?O cei na nomu yacana?
  [oh seh-ee nah noh-moo yah-thah-nah]
- Fine. And you?Vinaka. O iko?
  [vee-nah-kah. oh ee-koh?]
- Do you speak English?O tukuna na vosa Vakavalagi?
  [oh too-kuna nah voh-sah vah-kah-vah-lah-ngi]
- I don't understandAu sega ni kila
  [ow seh-ngah nee kee-lah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAu via raica na menu, vinaka
  [ow vee-ah rah-ee-kah nah meh-noo, vee-nah-kah]
- I don't eat meatAu sega ni kana na beef
  [ow seh-ngah nee kah-nah nah beef]
- Cheers!Bula!
  [boo-lah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAu via tomana, vinaka
  [ow vee-ah toh-mah-nah, vee-nah-kah]
- Help!Vakaraitaka!
  [vah-kah-rah-ee-tah-kah]
- Go away!Tukuna mai!
  [too-koo-nah my]
- Call the Police!Tukuna na polisi!
  [too-koo-nah nah poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Tukuna na dokita!
  [too-koo-nah nah doh-kee-tah]
- I'm lostAu sa leqa
  [ow sah leh-ngah]
- I'm illAu sa mate
  [ow sah mah-teh]
- I'd like to buy...Au via volia...
  [ow vee-ah voh-lee-ah]
- I'm just lookingAu sa raica ga
  [ow sah rah-ee-kah gah]
- How much is it?E vuqa na idola?
  [eh voo-ngah nah ee-doh-lah]
- That's too expensiveOya e levu sara
  [oh-yah eh leh-voo sah-rah]
- Can you lower the price?E rawa ni vakalevutaki na idola?
  [eh rah-wah nee vah-kah-leh-voo-tah-kee nah ee-doh-lah]
- What time is it?Na cava na gauna?
  [nah thah-vah nah gah-oo-nah]
- It's one o'clockE dua na hora
  [eh doo-ah nah hoh-rah]
- Half past (10)Vata ni (10)
  [vah-tah nee (10)]
- MorningMataka
  [mah-tah-kah]
- AfternoonMataniciva
  [mah-tah-nee-thee-vah]
- EveningMataqali
  [mah-tah-kah-lee]
- YesterdayE liu
  [eh lee-oo]
- TodayE na siga
  [eh nah see-ngah]
- TomorrowE na mata
  [eh nah mah-tah]
- 1Dua
  [doo-ah]
- 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
- 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
- 4Oni
  [oh-nee]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Oni
  [oh-nee]
- 7Vitu
  [vee-too]
- 8Vica
  [vee-thah]
- 9Ivi
  [ee-vee]
- 10Tini
  [tee-nee]
- Where's a/the...?E raica na...?
  [eh rah-ee-kah nah...?]
- What's the address?Na cava na adiresi?
  [nah thah-vah nah ah-deh-reh-see?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Mo ni vakaraitaka vei au (ena map)?
  [mo nee vah-kah-rah-ee-tah-kah veh-ee ow (eh-nah map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?E vuqa na (bus) e tarava?
  [eh voo-ngah nah (bus) eh tah-rah-vah?]
- A ticket (to ....)E dua na tiket (ki ....)
  [eh doo-ah nah tee-ket (kee ....)]

History of Central Division

The Central Division of Fiji, comprising the eastern part of Viti Levu, is steeped in rich indigenous history. Long before European contact, the area was inhabited by the iTaukei people. These indigenous Fijians established complex social structures and engaged in intricate ceremonies, many of which are still practiced today. The traditional villages, known as 'koros,' are the heart of Fijian culture, and visitors can witness meke dances, which are traditional storytelling through dance and song.
In the late 19th century, Fiji underwent significant changes with the arrival of European settlers. In 1874, Fiji was ceded to the British Crown, marking the beginning of the colonial era. The Central Division became an administrative hub, with Suva replacing Levuka as the capital in 1882. The colonial period brought about infrastructural developments and introduced new systems of governance and economy, significantly shaping the modern landscape of the region.
A pivotal chapter in the history of Fiji's Central Division was the introduction of the Indian indentured labor system. Between 1879 and 1916, thousands of Indians were brought to Fiji to work in the sugarcane plantations under harsh conditions. This migration has had a lasting impact on the cultural fabric of the Central Division, particularly in areas like Nausori, where the descendants of these laborers have established vibrant communities. The cultural diversity resulting from this period is evident in the region's cuisine, festivals, and daily life.
During World War II, Fiji, including the Central Division, played a strategic role in the Pacific theater. The island nation served as a base for Allied forces, and Suva's harbor was a critical point for naval operations. The presence of military forces brought about significant changes, including infrastructural improvements and increased international awareness of Fiji’s strategic importance. Remnants of this era, such as bunkers and airstrips, can still be found and explored.
Fiji gained independence from British rule in 1970, ushering in a new era of self-governance and development. The Central Division, with Suva as the capital, became the political and economic heartbeat of the nation. Suva is now a bustling metropolis, home to government buildings, educational institutions like the University of the South Pacific, and a thriving cultural scene. The cityscape is a blend of colonial architecture and modern developments, reflective of Fiji’s journey from a colonial outpost to an independent nation.
The Central Division is a cultural melting pot, hosting numerous festivals that celebrate its diverse heritage. Events such as the Hibiscus Festival in Suva highlight the vibrant Fijian culture, bringing together music, dance, and traditional crafts. The region is also important for its contributions to the arts, with numerous galleries and cultural centers showcasing Fijian and Pacific art. These cultural expressions continue to attract visitors and provide a deep insight into the everyday life and traditions of the people in Central Division.