Northern Division, Fiji Travel Guide

Explore the untouched beauty and vibrant culture of Fiji's Northern Division, featuring lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and some of the best diving spots in the world.

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Northern Division

Fiji's Northern Division is a hidden gem, offering a blend of untouched natural beauty and cultural richness. Spanning the second-largest island, Vanua Levu, and the smaller Taveuni Island, this region invites you to explore its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant underwater ecosystems. The Northern Division is perfect for those seeking an authentic Fijian experience away from the crowded tourist hotspots. In Vanua Levu, the town of Savusavu is known as the 'Hidden Paradise.' Here, you can relax in hot springs, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Savusavu Bay, or wander through the local markets to sample fresh tropical fruits and handmade crafts. The nearby Wasali Nature Reserve offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the island's diverse flora and fauna. Taveuni, often referred to as the 'Garden Island,' is another highlight of the Northern Division. It is home to the Bouma National Heritage Park, where you can trek through rainforest trails to discover stunning waterfalls like the Tavoro Falls. The island is also a diver's paradise, with the Rainbow Reef offering some of the best coral and marine life in Fiji. The Northern Division is not just about natural beauty; the local Fijian culture is vibrant and thriving. Visit traditional villages to experience the warm hospitality of the Fijian people, partake in a kava ceremony, and learn about their customs and way of life. The Northern Division of Fiji promises a unique and enriching travel experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Savusavu's hot springs for a relaxing experience.
Hike to the Tavoro Falls in Bouma National Heritage Park on Taveuni.
Explore the local markets in Savusavu for fresh fruits and handmade crafts.
Experience a traditional kava ceremony in a local village.
Dive at the Rainbow Reef to see stunning coral formations and marine life.

Top City Travel Guides in Northern Division

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

Suva

Levuka

Rakiraki

Nausori

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Northern Division

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Lower Pools

Discover tranquility and natural beauty at Lower Pools, a hidden gem in Waila City, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

4.8

Marine bay

Discover tranquility at Marine Bay, Lautoka: crystal waters, vibrant reefs, and stunning sunsets await in Fiji's coastal paradise.

5.0

Namosau Park

Escape to Namosau Park in Ba, Fiji: A serene oasis with lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying Fiji's natural beauty.

4.5

Best landmarks in Northern Division

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Colo-I-Suva Forest Park

Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Colo-I-Suva Forest Park, a tropical paradise near Suva, Fiji.

4.2

TappooCity Suva

Discover TappooCity Suva, the premier shopping destination in Fiji, where local culture meets international shopping and dining experiences.

4.2

Suva Municipal Market

Discover the heart of Fijian culture at Suva Municipal Market, where vibrant local produce and crafts await your exploration.

4.0

Albert Park

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Albert Park, Suva's iconic green space, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.

4.4

Best restaurants in Northern Division

Top-rated picks

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Bulaccino Café (Namaka, Nadi)

Discover Bulaccino Café in Namaka: A delightful blend of local flavors with vegan options, perfect for tourists seeking culinary adventures.

4.3

Maya Dhaba

Experience authentic Indian flavors at Maya Dhaba in Suva - where every dish tells a story.

4.2

The Northen Club of Fiji

Discover authentic Fijian cuisine at The Northern Club in Lautoka – where flavors meet hospitality in an inviting setting.

4.3

The Coffee Hub - Suva

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at The Coffee Hub in Suva - your go-to spot for coffee and cuisine.

4.5

Best bars in Northern Division

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Eden Bistro & Bar (Fiji)

Discover the flavors of Fiji at Eden Bistro & Bar, where local and international cuisines meet in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Vasaqa Fiji

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Vasaqa Fiji, a premier bar and restaurant in Nadi, perfect for every traveler.

4.5

Beach Bar & Grill, Fijian Thai & French Restaurant

Experience the perfect blend of Fijian, Thai, and French flavors at Beach Bar & Grill, where every meal is a tropical celebration.

4.8

Ice Bar

Discover the Ice Bar in Nadi, a unique ice-themed bar offering a refreshing escape and an exciting nightlife experience.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Northern Division

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O'Reilly's Bar Suva

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Suva at O'Reilly's Bar, the ultimate destination for cocktails, music, and dancing in Fiji's capital.

4.1

Traps Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Suva at Traps Bar, the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and fun in Fiji's capital.

3.6

Eds Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nadi at Eds Bar, a lively night club with great music, delicious drinks, and a friendly atmosphere that captures the spirit of Fiji.

3.7

The Lab Fiji

Discover the electrifying nightlife of The Lab Fiji, a premier night club in Nadi blending local culture with thrilling entertainment.

4.2

Best shops in Northern Division

Top-rated picks

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Tappoo Nadi Department Store

Explore the vibrant Tappoo Nadi Department Store for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with local crafts, international brands, and delicious refreshments.

4.2

My Fiji Store

Explore My Fiji Store for a unique selection of authentic Fijian gifts, chocolates, and more. A must-visit for every tourist in Nadi.

5.0

Shop'n Save

Discover local flavors and essential goods at Shop'n Save, your go-to grocery store in Ba, Fiji for an authentic shopping experience.

3.9

S Nagindas Renwick

Discover a colorful range of Fijian fashion and unique souvenirs at S Nagindas Renwick, the ultimate clothing store in Suva.

4.4

Explore Northern Division on the Map

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

Northern Division Essentials

The Northern Division of Fiji can be accessed primarily through Labasa Airport (LBS) or Savusavu Airport (SVU), both of which receive domestic flights from Nadi International Airport and Nausori Airport in Suva. From these airports, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach your destination within the division. Alternatively, inter-island ferries operate from Viti Levu to Vanua Levu, docking at ports like Nabouwalu and Savusavu.
Transportation within the Northern Division includes taxis, rental cars, and local buses. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Public buses run on regular schedules and are a convenient way to travel between towns. For more flexibility, renting a car is a good option, though roads can be challenging in remote areas. Bicycles can also be rented in some towns for shorter distances.
The official currency in Fiji is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns such as Labasa and Savusavu. Ensure you have enough cash before traveling to more remote areas.
Northern Division is generally safe for tourists, but caution is advised. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings. Certain neighborhoods in Labasa may have higher crime rates; it's best to stay in well-traveled and well-lit areas.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Labasa Hospital and Savusavu Hospital are the main medical facilities in the division. Pharmacies are available in major towns for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Police stations are located in Labasa and Savusavu for any legal or safety concerns.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a home or a religious site. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer 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 also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Northern Division like a local, visit the bustling markets in Labasa and Savusavu where you can purchase fresh produce and handicrafts. Engage with locals who are often willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss the chance to explore the Savusavu hot springs and the pristine beaches in the area. For a unique experience, participate in a traditional Fijian Kava ceremony.

When is the best time to visit Northern Division?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Northern 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 Northern Division. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBula
  [boo-lah]
- GoodbyeMoce
  [moh-theh]
- YesIo
  [ee-oh]
- NoSega
  [seh-ngah]
- Please/You're welcomeKerekere
  [keh-reh-keh-reh]
- Thank youVinaka
  [vee-nah-kah]
- Excuse me/SorryTiko
  [tee-koh]
- How are you?Vina na?
  [vee-nah nah]
- Fine. And you?Vinaka. Na nomu?
  [vee-nah-kah nah no-moo]
- Do you speak English?O ni tukuna na vosa Vakavalagi?
  [oh nee too-kuna nah vo-sah vah-kah-vah-lah-ngi]
- I don't understandAu sega ni kilai
  [ow seh-ngah nee kee-lah-ee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAu via raica na menu, kerekere
  [ow vee-ah rai-kah nah meh-noo keh-reh-keh-reh]
- I don't eat meatAu sega ni kana manumanu
  [ow seh-ngah nee kah-nah mah-noo-mah-noo]
- Cheers!Bula!
  [boo-lah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAu via saumi, kerekere
  [ow vee-ah sow-meee keh-reh-keh-reh]
- Help!Vakaraitaka!
  [vah-kah-rai-tah-kah]
- Go away!Siga!
  [see-ngah]
- Call the Police!Tukuna na Polisi!
  [too-kuna nah poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Tukuna e dua na dokita!
  [too-kuna eh doo-ah nah doh-kee-tah]
- I'm lostAu sa leqa
  [ow sah leh-kah]
- 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 rai-kah gah]
- How much is it?Ena totoka na?
  [eh-nah toh-toh-kah nah]
- That's too expensiveOya e levu duadua
  [oh-yah eh leh-voo doo-ah-doo-ah]
- Can you lower the price?O na rawa ni curu na iwali?
  [oh nah rah-wah nee thoo-roo nah ee-wah-lee]
- What time is it?Na gauna cava?
  [nah gawn-ah thah-vah]
- It's one o'clockE dua na clock
  [eh doo-ah nah clock]
- Half past (10)Taka na (10)
  [tah-kah nah (10)]
- MorningVeiqaravi
  [veh-ee-kah-rah-vee]
- AfternoonVeiqaravi ni siga
  [veh-ee-kah-rah-vee nee see-ngah]
- EveningVeisiga
  [veh-ee-see-ngah]
- YesterdayEna yabaki sa
  [eh-nah yah-bah-kee sah]
- TodayEna siga oqo
  [eh-nah see-ngah oh-ngoh]
- TomorrowEna siga mai
  [eh-nah see-ngah my]
- 1Dua
  [doo-ah]
- 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
- 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
- 4Vica
  [vee-thah]
- 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
- 6Talu
  [tah-loo]
- 7Vitu
  [vee-too]
- 8Walu
  [wah-loo]
- 9Ciwa
  [chee-wah]
- 10Tini
  [tee-nee]
- Where's a/the...?E na vanua e...?
  [eh nah vah-noo-ah eh]
- What's the address?Na i vola ni vanua?
  [nah ee voh-lah nee vah-noo-ah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?O na rawa ni vakaraitaka vei au (ena map)?
  [oh nah rah-wah nee vah-kah-rai-tah-kah veh-ee ow (eh-nah map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Na cava na bus e rawa mai?
  [nah thah-vah nah bus eh rah-wah my]
- A ticket (to ....)E dua na tikiti (ki ....)
  [eh doo-ah nah tee-kee-tee (kee ....)]

History of Northern Division

The Northern Division, also known as Vanua Levu, is the second-largest island of Fiji. The early settlers, the Lapita people, arrived around 3,500 years ago. They were skilled navigators and potters, known for their distinctive pottery designs. The indigenous Fijian culture that developed here is rich in traditions, including dance, music, and the 'meke,' a traditional Fijian performance combining storytelling and dance.
The first recorded European to visit Vanua Levu was Captain William Bligh in 1789, following the infamous Mutiny on the Bounty. Later, in the early 19th century, European traders and missionaries began to arrive. This period marked the beginning of significant cultural exchanges and the introduction of Christianity to the island.
In 1874, Fiji was ceded to the British Crown by King Cakobau and other Fijian chiefs, including those from Vanua Levu. This event marked the beginning of Fiji's colonial period, which brought significant changes to the social and economic structure of the Northern Division, including the establishment of sugar plantations and the influx of Indian laborers under the indenture system.
From 1879 to 1916, thousands of indentured laborers from India, known as 'Girmityas,' were brought to Fiji to work on sugar plantations. Many of these laborers settled in the Northern Division, significantly influencing the region's demographic and cultural landscape. Today, their descendants contribute richly to the multicultural fabric of Vanua Levu.
The Labasa Sugar Mill, established in 1894, played a pivotal role in the economic development of the Northern Division. It became a major employer and economic driver, influencing the growth of Labasa town. The mill's establishment marked the beginning of modern agricultural practices and infrastructure development in the region.
During World War II, Vanua Levu, like the rest of Fiji, played a strategic role in the Pacific theater. The island hosted Allied forces, and its airfields and ports were used for military operations. The war brought about infrastructure developments and increased global awareness of Fiji's strategic importance.
Fiji gained independence from British colonial rule on October 10, 1970. In the post-independence era, the Northern Division has continued to develop, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Efforts to preserve and promote Fijian culture and traditions remain strong, contributing to the region's unique identity.
The Northern Division is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the annual Hibiscus Festival and the Friendly North Festival in Labasa. These events showcase the rich cultural diversity of the region, featuring traditional Fijian dances, Indian music and dance performances, and various cultural exhibitions that celebrate the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic groups.