7 natural gems of Fiji

Your guide to national parks and marine sanctuaries in the 333-island archipelago.

The unique biodiversity of Fiji includes thriving marine ecosystems, cloud forests and a diverse range of national parks. Fiji’s 333 islands form a distinctive ecosystem comprising mountainous and lush terrains, rolling sand dunes and vibrant coral reef systems with an abundance of underwater sea life.

On your next visit, make sure to explore this South Pacific nation’s plethora of pristine natural environments. To help you plan an eco adventure, we’ve created the ultimate bucket list of must-see national parks and marine sanctuaries in Fiji.

Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park

Spanning 650 hectares, this extensive sand dune system includes dunes that stand at 60 metres tall. In recent years, archaeological excavations have uncovered pottery and burial grounds believed to be 2600 years old. Recognised as a national park in 1989, the sand dunes are home to more than 20 species of birds, skinks, lizards, geckos and fruit bats. Fiji’s National Rugby Sevens Team often train here, running up and down the enormous sand dunes.

Bouma National Heritage Park

The national park covers nearly 80 per cent of Taveuni, the ‘Garden Island’. The region was declared a national park in 1990 and is teeming with rainforests, coastal forests and waterfalls. Park must-dos include the Tavaro Waterfalls – three waterfalls that each have their own natural volcanic pools to swim in – and Lake Tagimaucia – while you’re there look out for the tagimaucia flower, Fiji’s national flower.

Namena Marine Reserve

Explore the crystal-clear waters of Namena Marine Reserve, an absolute must-do in Fiji for all ocean lovers. The reserve is managed by the chiefs of the 10 villages that make up the District of Kubulau. They established the reserve in 1997 when commercial fishing was causing an imminent threat to the area. Since then, the area has recovered to become a colourful, lively marine reserve that solidifies why Fiji is the world’s soft coral capital.

Vatu-i-Ra Seascape Conservation Park

Comprising 27,000 square kilometres in the Bligh Water near Nananu-i-Ra Island’s Suncoast, the park was established in 2016 to ensure protection of this stunning environment. The seas are abundant in coral reefs, colourful fish, dolphins and turtles, while the adjoining coastal forest is home to crested iguanas and tree frogs. Due to the protection they receive in Fiji, it is also where humpback whales come to bear calves. Unsurprisingly, the area is a haven for divers.

Koroyanitu National Heritage Park

Located about an hour from Lautoka on Viti Levu, the park is the perfect place to explore nature while also supporting ecotourism initiatives. The residents of the six villages within the park maintain the tracks and landscape, enabling them to support their families. There are plenty of options for hikers: a four-hour track leads to the summit of Castle Rock, with panoramic views of the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands; a two-hour hike takes in a waterfall view, the Tunu Tunu terraced gardens and the Navuratu village site; while a day hike to Mount Koroyanitu takes in the remains of a fortified village.

Naiqoro Passage Marine Sanctuary

Part of the Great Astrolabe Reef surrounding Kadavu Island, the sanctuary has a 21-metre vertical reef wall of bright purple, orange and red soft coral. Blanketing the seabed floor at the bottom of the wall are massive soft coral trees, large sea fans and an endless stream of nutrients brought by the current. You can explore five different dive sites in this marine sanctuary, where you can expect to see barracuda, surgeonfish, reef sharks, manta rays and even the occasional sailfish. It’s no surprise the sanctuary is on the top of every diver’s wish list.

Colo-i-Suva National Park

The park was recently put on the map again as a must-do in Fiji, thanks to the royal family’s 2018 visit. The park is a five square kilometre oasis of lush rainforest that is home to a wide range of lush tropical plants and vibrant bird life. Walking trails will bring you to clear lagoons, natural rockslides and gorgeous vistas. The park is also full of pandanus trees, which are sustainably used to weave traditional mats in Fiji. You can easily get here by bus from Suva and there are also park rangers who will give you private tours and showcase the unique wildlife that lives in this lush part of paradise.