Fiji Guides

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Taveuni's beautiful mountainous terrain and spectacular waterfalls provide endless opportunities for the eco-minded adventurer. As host to nearly all the bird species found in Fiji, the island is also a paradise for the avid bird watcher. The island is equally rich in culture and history. See how a traditional village operates or visit a hill fort site that was used by the ancient Fijians as a secret enemy look-out. Or, if a good game of golf or tennis suits your fancy, that too can be arranged.

Taveuni is the third largest island in the Fiji archipelago. Verdant, rugged and volcanic in origin, the island is approximately 26 miles long (42km) and 10 miles (16km) wide reaching a maximum height of 4,072 feet (1,241 meters). Taveuni's population of 12,000 (mostly native Fijians) resides in villages, the largest being the chiefly village of Somosomo.

Bouma Falls is one of the most beautiful spots on Taveuni. Located in Tavoro National Park, it is a perfect half- or full-day trip. Bouma Falls actually consists of three waterfalls: the first is an easy ten-minute walk from the main road. The waterfall is approximately 100 feet (30 meters) in height and falls into a large pool where one can go swimming and dive off the rocks. A wonderful trail has been built up to a second waterfall which is a worthwhile trip for the more adventurous. About 60 feet high and perhaps more dramatic, this second waterfall takes about thirty minutes to reach from the first along a well-manicured trail which has steps, handrails and benches for rest stops. The walk to the third and final waterfall - which is only about 25 feet high (8m) - takes about thirty minutes but the path is not as well kept. However, the beauty of this waterfall is in the remoteness of the area and the perfect stillness - a wonderful place to meditate!

Travel to the far northeast end of Taveuni to Lavena, one of the most picturesque villages on the island. One of the resort staff, Wani the bartender, who is originally from Lavena, sometimes accompanies guests on this trip. At Lavena village you can see how a traditional village operates, meet some of the villagers and perhaps the Village Chief. Lavena also features one of the most beautiful beaches on Taveuni. This beach, with its spectacular white sand and crystal clear water, was featured in the 'Return of the Blue Lagoon'. It is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. There is 3-mile (5km) graded walking path to the Tobu Vei Tui falls. The walk takes about one and a half hours of which the last 20-30 minutes is up a creek bed (Wainabau River).

Lake Tagimoucia which is located in an old crater 2,699ft (823 meters) high in the mountains. The lake, which is filled with floating masses of vegetation, is located just below Des Voeux peak which is the second highest spot on Taveuni at 3,920ft (1,195 meters). The highest peak on the island is Mt Uluigalau which is 4,072ft (1,241 meters) high. These are among the highest mountains in Fiji. The hike to the lake is very strenuous and should only be attempted by the serious hiker. It takes about 3-4 hours each way. The highlands are also home to Fiji's most famous flower, the tagimoucia (tahng-ee-mow-thia), a red and white flowered creeper which is linked to a local romantic legend about love lost and love regained. It only grows above 2000ft, and usually blooms from end of September to end of December. Any attempt to transplant the flower at a lower altitude has failed.