Fiji – The Most Exotic Island Holiday

Fiji is a Melanesian country in the South Pacific Ocean consisting of an archipelago that includes 332 islands. Towering volcanic mountains characterize this exquisite island nation; warm, crystal-clear, tropical waters, spectacular coral reefs, tropical rainforests, coconut plantations, breath-taking waterfalls, and of course some of the world’s most pristine beaches. With its abundance of fascinating attractions, jaw-dropping scenery, warm and welcoming locals, and cultural and sporting activities aplenty, Fiji is a paradise for nature lovers, culture vultures and sports enthusiasts alike. With over three hundred islands to choose from, Fiji is an amazingly versatile destination. Whether you are seeking a secluded romantic honeymoon retreat, a vibrant and boisterous backpacker island or a family-friendly resort, Fiji always inspires.

Fiji is a group of volcanic islands in the South Pacific, lying about 4,450 kilometres (2,765 mi) southwest of Honolulu and 1,770 km (1,100 mi) north of New Zealand. Of the 332 islands and 522 smaller islets making up the archipelago, about 106 are permanently inhabited. The total land size is 18,272 km2 (7,055 square miles). It has the 26th largest Exclusive Economic Zone of 1,282,978 km2 (495,361 square miles).

Viti Levu, the largest island, covers about 57% of the nation’s land area, hosts the two official cities (the capital Suva, and Lautoka) and most other major towns, such as Nausori, Vaileka, Ba, Tavua, Kororvou, Nasinu, and Nadi (the site of the international airport), and contains some 69% of the population. Vanua Levu, 64 km (40 mi) to the northeast of Viti Levu, covers just over 30% of the land area though is home to only some 15% of the population. Its main towns are Labasa and Savusavu. In the northeast it features Natewa Bay, carving out the Loa peninsula.

Both islands are mountainous, with peaks up to 1,300 m (4,300 feet) rising abruptly from the shore, and covered with tropical forests. Heavy rains (up to 304 cm or 120 inches annually) fall on the windward (south-eastern) side, covering these sections of the islands with dense tropical forest. Lowlands on the western portions of each of the main islands are sheltered by the mountains and have a well-marked dry season favourable to crops such as sugarcane.

Other islands and island groups, which cover just 12.5% of the land area and house some 16% of the population, include Taveuni southeast off Vanua Levu and Kadavu Island, south off Viti Levu (the third and fourth largest islands respectively), the Mamanuca Group (just off Nadi) and Yasawa Group (to the north of the Mamanucas), which are popular tourist destinations, the Lomaiviti Group (just off Suva) with Levuka, the former capital and the only major town on any of the smaller islands, located on the island of Ovalau, and the remote Lau Group over the Koro Sea to the east near Tonga, from which it is separated by the Lakeba Passage.

DESTINATIONS COVERED IN THIS ITINERARY

LAUTOKA
Affectionately known as Sugar City, Lautoka, Fiji’s second-largest city, enjoys an idyllic location in the heart of the sugar cane-growing region. Covering an area of just 16 square kilometres on the serene island of Viti Levu, Lautoka boasts an exquisite backdrop of Mount Koroyanitu and hosts a wonderful marina, a picturesque esplanade, several charming cafes, a lush botanical garden and a popular children’s park. The Koroyanitu National Heritage Park is situated just 10 kilometres southeast of the city and is an ideal attraction for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy exploring the shady tree-lined streets and colonial homes of this lively little town while they shop for Indian saris and traditional Fijian handicrafts at the local market.

MAMANUCA ISLANDS
Extending in an arc off the west coast of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, The Mamanuca Islands are comprised of 20 exquisite volcanic islands, seven of which are covered by the Pacific Ocean at high tide. This idyllic archipelago rests in a lagoon formed between the Great Sea Reef and the mainland. It boasts magnificent palm-lined beaches, lush tropical vegetation and an array of gorgeous luxury resorts. This extraordinarily scenic landscape makes an ideal backdrop for the impressive range of outdoor activities on offer. These include, among others: diving, parasailing, snorkelling, sailing, dolphin-watching, swimming, kayaking, windsurfing and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy interacting with the fabulously friendly locals at one of the many remote little villages. Whether you are young or old, a party animal or looking for a quiet romantic retreat, there is an island for everyone in this much-loved island group.

RAKIRAKI
Surrounded by lush sugar cane plantations and a magnificent coastline, the district of Rakiraki is located in the Ra Province on the northern coast of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island. It is known as the birthplace of most of Fiji’s politicians. It is dotted with little Fijian villages, one of which is the capital of the district Rakiraki town, locally known as Vaileka. It is home to some of Fiji’s most prominent landmarks including Navatu Rock, said to be one of Fiji’s oldest human settlements with pottery remnants dating back to 1000BC. Visit the offshore island of Nananu-i-Ra- steeped in Fijian mythology, discover the tomb of Ratu Udre Udre, a famous 19th-century cannibal chief, and view the soaring peaks of the renowned Nakauvadra Range.

In this 10 Nights / 11 Days TVS Exclusive itinerary, you will enjoy some of the most amazing coastal areas ever. You will be travelling to Lautoka, Mamanuca Islands and Rakiraki which offer extravagant beach resorts and the best beaches.